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Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 79 reviews
  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: approx. 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe offers a quick, easy, and flavorful way to prepare tender shredded chicken breasts using minimal ingredients and the convenience of an electric pressure cooker. Whether starting with fresh or frozen chicken, this method ensures juicy results perfect for sandwiches, salads, tacos, and more.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 3–4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen)

Liquids

  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water or pineapple juice)

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning herbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: If using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are not stuck together before placing them in the Instant Pot.
  2. Add Chicken to Instant Pot: Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. It’s fine if they overlap.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth (or your chosen liquid) and add salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), minced garlic, and butter on top of the chicken.
  4. Secure the Lid: Place and lock the Instant Pot lid securely. Turn the valve to the sealing position.
  5. Set Cooking Time: Select the manual/pressure cook setting. Cook for 15 minutes if using fresh or thawed chicken breasts, or for 25 minutes if cooking from frozen. The Instant Pot will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.
  6. Natural Pressure Release: When cooking time completes and the Instant Pot beeps, allow a 10-15 minute natural pressure release. Afterward, carefully open the valve to release any remaining pressure.
  7. Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
  8. Shred Chicken: You may chop the chicken directly or transfer it to a large bowl to shred. Use some of the cooking liquid to moisten and flavor the shredded chicken.
  9. Store Properly: Place the shredded chicken in an airtight container and add cooking liquid to keep it moist for storage.

Notes

  • Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts; adjust accordingly for especially large breasts.
  • Butter is optional but adds richness to the chicken.
  • For spicier chicken, increase or keep red pepper flakes; omit if preferred mild.
  • Liquid choice can be substituted with water or pineapple juice for different flavor profiles.
  • Shredded chicken is versatile and can be used for sandwiches, tacos, salads, soups, and more.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken safety and avoid overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (for frozen) or 15 minutes (for fresh/thawed) plus 10-15 minutes natural release
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Instant Pot shredded chicken, pressure cooker chicken, easy shredded chicken, quick chicken recipe, tender shredded chicken

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Find it online: https://mealsbylana.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken-recipe/