Did you know you can make tasty pulled chicken in under an hour1? This recipe makes tender, flavorful shredded chicken. It’s great for tacos, sandwiches, and meal-prep bowls. It’s perfect for both new cooks and experienced chefs.
In this article, you’ll discover how to make perfect pulled chicken every time. You’ll also get tips for using your pressure cooker. Get ready to enjoy the convenience and taste of this versatile protein.
Key Takeaways
- Pressure cooker pulled chicken can be made in under an hour
- Recipe uses a combination of boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts1
- Chicken is seared for 2-3 minutes per side before pressure cooking1
- Pressure cooking time is 15 minutes with a 10-minute natural release1
- Seasoning includes brown sugar, spices, and sauces for maximum flavor1
Introduction to Pressure Cooker Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken, also known as shredded chicken, is a tasty dish that’s easy to make. Cooking chicken in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot makes it tender and juicy. This method saves time and keeps the chicken’s flavors and juices in, making it more delicious2.
What is Pulled Chicken?
Pulled chicken is chicken that’s cooked until it’s easy to shred or pull apart. It’s a favorite in many dishes, like sandwiches, tacos, soups, and casseroles.
Benefits of Using a Pressure Cooker
Using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for pressure cooked chicken has many benefits. It cooks the chicken fast, making it moist and flavorful. This method is quick, saving you time compared to other cooking ways3. It also keeps the chicken’s juices and flavors inside, making it even tastier.
“Pulled chicken is a versatile and easy-to-prepare dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By using a pressure cooker, you can achieve perfectly tender, flavorful pulled chicken in a fraction of the time it would take with other cooking methods.”
Ingredients for Pressure Cooker Pulled Chicken
To make delicious pulled chicken in your pressure cooker, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs4. The recipe calls for 2 lbs of chicken thighs and 1 lb of chicken breasts4. You’ll also need chicken broth or water, about 1 cup, to create the cooking liquid4.
For the seasoning, a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper work well4. Other flavorful additions can include Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce4. The recipe recommends 1 1/2 cups of BBQ sauce, 1/2 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt, 1/2 cup grated onion, 2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce4.
With these simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering pulled chicken dish in your pressure cooker. 
“The Pressure Cooker Pulled Chicken recipe has an average rating of 4.70 out of 5 based on 76 ratings.”5
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make delicious pulled chicken in a pressure cooker, start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs6. If using chicken breasts, cut them in half for even cooking6. Then, season the chicken all over with your favorite spices and seasonings, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
Preparing the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in the inner pot of the pressure cooker and add chicken broth6. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Then, cook the chicken on high pressure for 10 minutes7. After cooking, allow for a 5-minute natural pressure release before quick release7.
Pressure Cooking the Chicken
After the pressure is fully released, carefully remove the lid. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the cooking liquid, which will keep the meat moist and flavorful6. Shred the chicken until it reaches your desired consistency, then serve or store as needed.
Shredding the Pulled Chicken
With these simple steps, you can easily create delicious, tender pulled chicken right in your pressure cooker. The key is to properly season the chicken and cook it at the right pressure and time to achieve the perfect texture67.
By following this straightforward pressure cooker pulled chicken recipe, you’ll have a versatile, flavorful protein for many dishes. Use it in sandwiches and tacos to salads and casseroles7.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Pulled Chicken
To get your pulled chicken just right, remember a few key tips. First, make sure you use enough liquid, like chicken broth or water, in your cooker8. This keeps the chicken moist and full of flavor. Also, season the chicken well before cooking to add layers of taste8.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Letting the pressure release naturally helps keep it moist and tender8. Shredding the chicken while it’s warm in the liquid lets it soak up more flavor8.
- Use enough liquid (chicken broth or water) in the pressure cooker or Instant Pot to keep the chicken moist and flavorful8.
- Season the chicken well with a blend of seasonings like kosher salt, freshly-cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika before cooking8.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken by allowing the natural pressure release method, which helps maintain moisture and tenderness8.
- Shred the chicken while it’s warm and in the cooking liquid to help it absorb even more flavor8.
Follow these tips to make your pulled chicken tender and full of flavor in your pressure cooker or Instant Pot8. Try different seasonings and ways to serve it to enjoy this versatile dish even more9.
Seasoning Variations
Seasoning can change everything about pulled chicken. You might want a classic BBQ taste or a zesty Mexican twist. There are countless ways to make your pressure cooker pulled chicken stand out.
Classic BBQ Seasoning
For a true BBQ taste, use a mix of brown sugar, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and a bit of cayenne pepper10. This blend is sweet, savory, and a little spicy. It’s perfect with BBQ sauces and toppings.
Mexican-Inspired Seasoning
For a Mexican flavor, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and fresh lime juice11. This seasoning brings a bold, tasty flavor. It’s great with tacos, enchiladas, and more.
Exploring different spice blends is key. Find the flavors that make you happy. The world of seasoning is vast, so enjoy trying new things!
Pulled Chicken in Pressure Cooker
The pressure cooker is perfect for making tender, flavorful pulled chicken. It cooks the chicken fast, keeping it moist and juicy. This makes the chicken easy to shred and ready for many dishes12.
Preparing Instant Pot pulled chicken in BBQ sauce takes just 12 minutes on high pressure12. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days12. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months for meal prep12.
Pressure cooking is not only quick but also keeps the chicken’s nutritional value high. Each serving has 281 calories, 32g carbs, 28g protein, and 4g fat12. It also has 630IU Vitamin A, 3mg Vitamin C, and 41mg calcium12.
| Pressure Cooker vs Slow Cooker | Pressure Cooker | Slow Cooker |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes on high pressure13 | 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high13 |
| Batch Size | 4 to 5 pounds of chicken13 | 4 to 5 pounds of chicken13 |
| Meal Portions | Divides into 3-4 containers13 | Divides into 3-4 containers13 |
| Recipe Suggestions |
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The pressure cooker is great for making easy pulled chicken at home. It cooks the meat fast and keeps it moist. This makes the chicken perfect for many recipes, like BBQ, tacos, or more.
Serving Suggestions
The tender, flavorful pulled chicken you’ve made in your pressure cooker is very versatile. It’s great for both classic pulled chicken sandwiches and Mexican-style pulled chicken tacos. This protein-rich ingredient can make many dishes better14.
Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
For a tasty lunch or dinner, put the moist, shredded chicken on soft buns or rolls. Add crunchy coleslaw, tangy pickles, and your favorite barbecue sauce. This makes a delicious pulled chicken sandwich14.
The mix of tender chicken, creamy slaw, and tangy sauce is a hit with everyone.
Pulled Chicken Tacos
The pulled chicken is also great in tacos. Put it in warm tortillas or crisp lettuce wraps. Add diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a Mexican twist15.
For extra flavor, add shredded cheese, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. This taco filling is a family favorite.
| Dish | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pulled Chicken Sandwich | 477 | 98% | 24% | 22% |
| Pulled Chicken Taco (with chicken breast) | 135 | 21 | 3 | 4 |
| Pulled Chicken Taco (with chicken breast and thighs) | 150 | 19 | 3 | 6 |
“The tender, flavorful pulled chicken is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes, from classic sandwiches to Mexican-inspired tacos.”
Meal Prep and Freezing Instructions
Pressure cooker pulled chicken is not only tasty but also super versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezing16. You can make a lot of tender, shredded chicken. Use it in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or grain bowls.
Let the chicken cool down before putting it in airtight containers or bags17. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for 3 months16. To thaw frozen chicken, just leave it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Meal prepping with pressure cooker pulled chicken is a big win17. You’ll get about 5 pounds of shredded chicken. It’s great for many meals throughout the week17. It’s perfect for saving time on busy nights or having a healthy protein ready.
Pressure cooker pulled chicken is a great choice for meal prep16. You can use it in salads, tacos, soups, or sandwiches. It’s convenient and delicious, making it a great choice for the week.
Nutritional Information
A serving of pressure cooker pulled chicken (about 1/2 cup) is lean and full of protein. It’s a great addition to many meals18. It has about 142 calories, 4g fat, 22g protein, 570mg sodium, and 112mg cholesterol18.
For Instant Pot shredded chicken using chicken thighs, cook at high pressure for 13 minutes18. Store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months18. This recipe makes about five servings and takes about 23 minutes to prepare and cook18.
| Nutrition Facts | Chicken Breast | Chicken Thighs | Combination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 135 | 165 | 150 |
| Protein | 21g | 18g | 19g |
| Carbs | 3g | 3g | 3g |
| Fat | 4g | 6g | 6g |
Each 3-ounce serving of pulled BBQ chicken has 3 WW SmartPoints (blue)15. It has about 105 calories, 2.4g fat, 19.4g protein, 0.3g total carbs, 0.2g net carbs, 0.1g fiber, and 0.1g sugar19.
Pulled chicken is a versatile and healthy protein option. It can be used in many dishes. Whether you use chicken breasts, thighs, or a mix, the pressure cooker method is quick and easy. It makes tender, flavorful pulled chicken that’s full of nutrition facts pulled chicken and healthy protein.
Conclusion
Pressure cooker easy pulled chicken recipe is a great way to make tender, flavorful chicken. It uses the Instant Pot to cook chicken fast and evenly. This keeps the meat moist and juicy20.
With a few easy steps and many seasoning choices, you can make instant pot pulled chicken. It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or soups2021.
Follow the cooking times and methods for tender and juicy chicken every time. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for 4 months. This recipe is a big time-saver that tastes amazing2021.
FAQ
What is pulled chicken?
What are the benefits of using a pressure cooker to make pulled chicken?
What ingredients do I need to make pulled chicken in a pressure cooker?
How do I prepare and cook the pulled chicken in the pressure cooker?
What are some tips for achieving perfectly tender pulled chicken?
What are some seasoning variations for pulled chicken?
How can I use pressure cooker pulled chicken in different dishes?
How can I store and reheat leftover pulled chicken?
What are the nutritional benefits of pressure cooker pulled chicken?
Source Links
- Best Damn Instant Pot Pulled Chicken – https://recipeteacher.com/best-damn-instant-pot-pulled-chicken/
- BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker) – https://umamigirl.com/bbq-pulled-chicken-for-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/
- The Best Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe – https://therealfooddietitians.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Instant Pot BBQ Chicken – https://meaningfuleats.com/instant-pot-bbq-chicken/
- Pressure Cooker Pulled Chicken – Shredded BBQ Chicken Recipe – https://dearcrissy.com/pressure-cooker-pulled-chicken/
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://www.wellplated.com/instant-pot-chicken/
- Easy Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/easy-instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://theflavoursofkitchen.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Easy All Purpose Instant Pot Pulled Chicken – https://www.garlicandzest.com/instant-pot-pulled-chicken/
- Instant Pot Pulled Chicken – https://simply-delicious-food.com/instant-pot-pulled-chicken/
- Pressure Cooker Shredded Chicken and 3 Easy Meals! – https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a92222/pressure-cooker-shredded-chicken-and-3-easy-meals/
- Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken – https://www.jocooks.com/recipes/instant-pot-bbq-pulled-chicken/
- The Best Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken – https://masonfit.com/pulled-instant-pot-bbq-chicken/
- My Go-To Meal Prep Hack: Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://www.caligirlcooking.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Big Batch Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – https://www.accidentalhappybaker.com/big-batch-instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Easy Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe – https://www.apinchofhealthy.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/
- Instant Pot Chicken Breast (Fresh Or Frozen) – Wholesome Yum – https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/pressure-cooker-chicken-breast-recipe-shredded-chicken/
- SHREDDED CHICKEN INSTANT POT – https://hiphipgourmet.com/shredded-chicken-instant-pot/
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken plus 10 Secrets for Successful Results – https://instafreshmeals.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/