Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe (Fast, Juicy & Sweet-Tangy)

If you’re craving pulled BBQ chicken but don’t have time to slow cook it for hours — the Instant Pot is your best friend. This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe gives you tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or just by itself. All in about 30 minutes, start to finish.

You can use chicken breasts or thighs, fresh or frozen and the sauce is simple but packed with sweet, smoky flavor.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken

• Quick & easy one-pot recipe
• Works with fresh or frozen chicken
• Juicy and easy to shred
• Great for meal prep or party sandwiches
• Can be served a dozen different ways

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: extra BBQ sauce for after shredding

How to Make BBQ Chicken in the Instant Pot

Step 1 – Add Ingredients to the Pot

Place chicken in the Instant Pot. Pour in water or broth, then add BBQ sauce, vinegar, and seasonings. Stir gently to coat the chicken.

Step 2 – Pressure Cook

Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes (fresh) or 15 minutes (frozen). Let pressure release naturally for 5–10 minutes.

Step 3 – Shred the Chicken

Open the lid and shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. Stir well to coat with sauce. If needed, add more BBQ sauce to taste.

Step 4 – Serve

Serve warm on buns, in wraps, tacos, bowls, or over rice.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken

• Use thighs for more flavor and moisture, but breasts work great too
• Don’t skip the broth or water — it helps avoid the burn warning
• Double the sauce if you like it extra saucy
• Want crisp edges? After shredding, spread on a sheet pan and broil for 3–4 minutes

Variations

• Spicy BBQ: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes
• Honey BBQ: Mix in 1 tbsp honey with the BBQ sauce
• BBQ Chicken Bowls: Serve over rice with corn, slaw, and avocado
• BBQ Chicken Tacos: Load into soft tortillas with slaw and lime

More recipes:-

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes — just increase the pressure cook time to 15 minutes and skip stirring. Add sauce after if needed.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Store in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What’s the best BBQ sauce?

Use one you love — sweet, smoky, spicy, or vinegar-based all work here.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If it’s too thin, turn on sauté mode and simmer for a few minutes after shredding.