Pulled Instant Pot BBQ Chicken | Quick & Juicy Favorite

The first time I made this, we were dripping wet from a surprise rainstorm after soccer practice. Shoes squished. Bellies growled. I needed something fast and hearty. This pulled Instant Pot BBQ chicken came to the rescue. In just 30 minutes, we were sitting down to a warm, saucy, soul-soothing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Pulled Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

This recipe is quick, tender, and loaded with bold barbecue flavor. It tastes like it simmered all afternoon, but it’s ready in a flash. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or last-minute gatherings.

You can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or swap in chicken breasts for something leaner. If you’re craving crispy bits, a quick broil adds a little magic at the end.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken thighs are the go-to for juicy texture. You can also use chicken breasts or a mix of both.
• Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and gives a richer flavor.
• Spice blend: brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, dry mustard, and black pepper. Add chili powder for a kick.
• BBQ sauce: Use your favorite. Thick and sweet sauces make it richer. Tangy sauces add more zip.

Whether you’re into Stubb’s, G Hughes, or a homemade blend, the sauce you choose sets the tone for the whole dish.

How to Make Pulled BBQ Chicken in the Instant Pot

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by mixing all the spices in a small bowl. Then coat the chicken with olive oil and rub in the seasoning until it’s well covered. You can prep this spice blend ahead to make dinner even faster.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken for Flavor

Set your Instant Pot to high sauté. Sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side. This step adds a layer of flavor that builds the foundation of the dish.

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Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce and Pressure Cook

Pour in the BBQ sauce and give everything a stir. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot so nothing sticks. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Use a quick release to keep the texture tender.

Step 4: Shred and Sauce

Transfer the chicken to a bowl and shred it using two forks or a hand mixer. Return the meat to the pot and mix it with the sauce. If the sauce feels thin, turn the sauté function back on and let it simmer while you stir.

Optional: Broil for Crispy Pulled BBQ Chicken

If you want those little caramelized edges, spread the chicken on a sheet pan or use an Instant Pot Duo Crisp lid. Broil for 8 to 12 minutes until the tips start to brown.

Slow Cooker Variation

Want to take your time? This recipe works beautifully in a slow cooker too.

Use the same seasoning but reduce the oil to one tablespoon. No need to add extra BBQ sauce since the chicken will release liquid. You can sear the chicken in a skillet first if you want deeper flavor.

Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours.

Serving Ideas for Pulled BBQ Chicken

There are so many ways to use this chicken:

• Make sandwiches or sliders with pickles and coleslaw
• Load it over tortilla chips for BBQ nachos
• Mix into mac and cheese or spoon over baked potatoes
• Use it in wraps, quesadillas, or pizza instead of rotisserie chicken

It also works great for meal prep or party platters. You can serve it warm or cold, and it holds up well for leftovers.

Looking for other ideas? Try this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl for easy weeknight meals or tuck it into cheesy garlic chicken wraps for a quick handheld meal.

Tips for Best Results

• Use chicken thighs if you want the juiciest texture.
• Adjust the sauce by simmering after shredding if it feels too thin.
• Skip the chili powder for mild flavor or add more for spice lovers.
• Let the shredded meat sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving so it soaks up every bit of flavor.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for another day.

Pulled Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe Card

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More Such Recipes

Here are some other chicken dinners you’ll enjoy:

• Creamy ranch chicken for a comfort-packed dinner
• Crockpot Hawaiian BBQ chicken with tropical flair
• Cheesy garlic chicken wraps for a quick handheld meal

Nutrition Information

Per 3 oz serving with chicken thighs

• Calories: 165
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 3g
• Fat: 9g
• WW SmartPoints (blue): 3

Using chicken breast

• 135 Calories
• 21g Protein
• 3g Carbs
• 4g Fat
• 1 SmartPoint

Using 50/50 mix

• 150 Calories
• 19g Protein
• 3g Carbs
• 6g Fat
• 2 SmartPoints

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Pulled Instant Pot BBQ chicken is fast, flexible, and incredibly tasty. It’s become a go-to in our house, especially when we need something easy but comforting.

Try it on game night, for meal prep, or just because you’re craving something saucy and delicious. If you come up with your own spin, tag me on Pinterest or share it over on Facebook. I’d love to see what you make.