Description
This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare tender, flavorful shredded chicken using an electric pressure cooker. With minimal ingredients and hands-off cooking, the chicken turns out juicy and perfect for use in salads, tacos, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb. chicken breasts
Liquid & Seasoning
- 1 cup regular sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp seasoning mix (optional)
- ½ – 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Instant Pot: Pour the broth or water into the bottom of a 6-quart Instant Pot to provide moisture for pressure cooking.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts directly into the Instant Pot on top of the liquid.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle seasoning mix (if using), salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure. Cook for 10 minutes if the chicken breasts are large (7-8 ounces) or 8 minutes if medium-sized (4-6 ounces).
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes once the cooking time is complete.
- Wait Before Opening: Do not open the Instant Pot for 10 minutes after the timer goes off to let the chicken further rest and lock in juices.
- Release Residual Pressure: Open the pressure release valve carefully to expel any remaining steam before opening the lid.
- Shred and Rest: Remove the chicken and shred it using forks. Let it sit in the cooking liquid for 5-10 minutes to absorb extra flavor and moisture before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute broth with water if preferred, but broth adds more flavor.
- Adjust salt and seasoning quantities according to your taste or dietary needs.
- Use freshly shredded chicken in salads, sandwiches, soups, or tacos for versatile meal options.
- Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
