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Instant Pot BBQ Chicken: Juicy & Easy! BBQ chicken: master this tender, flavorful Instant Pot recipe in under 30 minutes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners an

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken: Juicy & Easy!

BBQ chicken: master this tender, flavorful Instant Pot recipe in under 30 minutes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners and meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup chicken stock or water
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated onion (plus juice)
  • 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar

Method
 

  1. Place the ingredients in the instant pot in this order: chicken stock (or water), chicken, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, BBQ sauce, grated onion, and brown sugar. Do NOT stir. You want the water to stay on the bottom of the pot so the instant pot comes to pressure.
  2. Place the lid on the instant pot making sure the valve is in the sealing position. Press manual (high pressure) and set to 15 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes. Then quick release the venting position to release the remaining pressure and open the pot.
  3. Remove the chicken and shred it. If necessary, reduce the liquid by pressing the "saute" button and simmering the sauce, stirring often, until thickened. Add the chicken back to the sauce before serving.
  4. Add more BBQ sauce if desired. Shred and enjoy on sandwiches, salads, BBQ plates, and more!

Notes

- To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, poultry should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy after the pressure release.
- For a richer, thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken first. Then, use the 'Sauté' function to simmer and reduce the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. I prefer a slightly thicker sauce to coat the shredded chicken beautifully.
- Store leftover Instant Pot BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.