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Instant Pot Shredded Chicken

This easy Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe gives you tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken in minutes! Perfect for meal prep, tacos, salads, soups, and more. Works with fresh or frozen chicken.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Chicken breasts or thighs (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup Chicken broth or water
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Black pepper
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp Paprika (optional, for flavor and color)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup broth or water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
  2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the chicken.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    Fresh boneless, skinless breasts: 8–10 minutes on HIGH pressure
    Frozen boneless, skinless breasts: 12–15 minutes on HIGH pressure
    Bone-in chicken breasts: 12–14 minutes on HIGH pressure
    Fresh boneless thighs: 10–12 minutes on HIGH pressure
    Frozen boneless thighs: 15 minutes on HIGH pressure
    Bone-in thighs: 15–17 minutes on HIGH pressure
  4. Release Pressure: Let the Instant Pot naturally release for 5-10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
  5. Shred the Chicken: Use forks, a hand mixer, or a stand mixer to shred the chicken.
  6. Serve & Store: Use immediately or store for later (fridge: 4 days, freezer: 3 months).

Notes

  • For juicier chicken, always use natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes.
  • Add extra seasonings like cumin, Italian seasoning, or buffalo sauce for different flavors.
  • Great for meal prep – freeze in portions for easy future meals!