Name: Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups water; 1 oz dry ranch dressing mix; 1 tbsp poultry seasoning; 1 tbsp ground black pepper; 4 tsp salt; 2 frozen large chicken breast; 18 oz barbecue sauce

The Instant Pot chicken with barbecue sauce recipe is a simple and delicious meal to prepare. It combines the juicy flavors of chicken with the sweetness and tanginess of barbecue sauce, all prepared in the convenience of an Instant Pot. This recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Photos of Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Recipe

This recipe calls for dry ranch dressing mix and poultry seasoning, which may not be readily available in all home pantries. Most grocery stores or supermarkets should carry these ingredients in the spices section. The ranch dressing mix adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken, while the poultry seasoning enhances the natural taste of the chicken.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce

Water: A base liquid for the instant pot to pressure cook the chicken.

Dry ranch dressing mix: Adds a unique creamy and tangy flavor profile to the chicken.

Poultry seasoning: This blend of herbs and spices is specifically designed to complement poultry dishes.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances other flavors.

Salt: Essential for taste, it brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Chicken breast: The main protein in this dish, chicken breast is lean and cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot.

Barbecue sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce gives the dish its main flavor profile.

One reader, Bertina Valenti says:

This instant pot chicken with barbecue sauce recipe is a game-changer! The chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, and the flavors are spot on. It's so easy to make and perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. I highly recommend trying it out!

Bertina Valenti

Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

How to use a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an instant pot): This involves understanding the different settings and functions of the pressure cooker, including how to set the pressure level, timer, and release method.

How to shred chicken with two forks: This technique involves using two forks to pull the cooked chicken apart into small, shredded pieces.

How to coat chicken with barbecue sauce: This involves evenly covering the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.

How To Make Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce

Full of flavor, this instant pot chicken breast is pressure-cooked with ranch and seasonings, deliciously coated with barbecue sauce.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4cupswater
1ozdry ranch dressing mix,(1 package) such as Hidden Valley Ranch®
1tbsppoultry seasoning
1tbspground black pepper,or to taste
4tspsalt
2frozen large chicken breast,skinless boneless, halves
18ozbarbecue sauce,(1 bottle)

Instructions

Whisk water, ranch dressing mix, poultry seasoning, pepper, and salt together in the bottom of a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an instant pot).
Add chicken breasts. Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to manufacturer’s instructions; set timer to 3 minutes. Allow for pressure to build for about 7 to 10 minutes.
Release pressure for about 13 to 18 minutes using the natural-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Unlock and remove the lid. Shred chicken with 2 forks. Coat with barbecue sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 869.75kcal
Fat: 26.03g
Saturated Fat: 6.65g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.46g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.43g
Carbohydrates: 109.15g
Fiber: 3.42g
Sugar: 86.05g
Protein: 48.06g
Cholesterol: 148.70mg
Sodium: 2781.87mg
Calcium: 160.53mg
Potassium: 1138.14mg
Iron: 4.44mg
Vitamin A: 84.39µg
Vitamin C: 1.79mg

Technique Tip for Making Perfect Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

When shredding the chicken, it's best to let it cool slightly before handling to avoid burns. Also, using two forks, hold the chicken steady with one fork and use the other to pull shreds of meat off. Shred along the grain of the meat for the best texture. Additionally, adding the barbecue sauce while the chicken is still warm helps it to absorb the flavors better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use shortcuts: Utilize pre-made sauces or spice blends to cut down on prep time and add flavor effortlessly.

Batch cooking: Make extra and freeze for future meals to save time on busy days.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Invest in tools: Use kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to speed up prep work.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen organized to easily find ingredients and utensils, saving time during cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Recipe

water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth will add more flavor to the dish and enhance the overall savory profile.
dry ranch dressing mix - Substitute with homemade ranch seasoning: Making your own ranch seasoning allows you to control the sodium content and customize the flavor to your preference.
poultry seasoning - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning can provide a similar herbaceous flavor profile with a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can provide a different dimension of heat to the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add depth of flavor and a touch of umami to the dish.
frozen large chicken breast - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs can be more forgiving in the Instant Pot, staying tender and juicy even with longer cooking times.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with homemade barbecue sauce: Making your own barbecue sauce allows you to adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness to your liking, and it can be a fun way to experiment with different flavors.

Best Way to Present Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

Elevate the plating: Arrange the shredded barbecue chicken in a circular motion on the plate, creating a visually appealing presentation. Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle a small amount of barbecue sauce around the edge of the plate for an artistic touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives or parsley over the top of the barbecue chicken to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a small side of coleslaw or a crispy slaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots to provide a textural contrast to the tender barbecue chicken.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate by ensuring that the barbecue chicken is the focal point, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine through without overcrowding the presentation.
Balance flavors: Accompany the barbecue chicken with a small portion of a complementary side dish, such as a cornbread muffin or a scoop of creamy potato salad, to balance the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an instant pot): A versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together, typically used for mixing liquids and incorporating air into the mixture.
Forks: Utensils with tines used for shredding the cooked chicken.
Measuring cups: Used for accurately measuring the water and barbecue sauce.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the dry ranch dressing mix, poultry seasoning, ground black pepper, and salt.
Tongs: Used for removing the cooked chicken from the pressure cooker.
Cutting board: Used for shredding the cooked chicken and preparing other ingredients.
Knife: Used for cutting and shredding the chicken.
Bowls: Used for mixing and serving the dish.
Plates: Used for serving the finished dish.

How To Store and Freeze Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

Let the instant pot chicken cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to soggy or freezer-burned chicken.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled shredded chicken to an airtight container. Pour any remaining barbecue sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Seal the container tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the instant pot chicken in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Divide the chicken into portion sizes that suit your needs, so you can easily thaw and reheat only what you require.
If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy reference.
To maximize flavor and texture, use frozen instant pot chicken within 2-3 months. While it will remain safe to eat beyond this time, the quality may begin to deteriorate.
To thaw frozen instant pot chicken, transfer the container or bag from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the chicken in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
Once thawed, reheat the instant pot chicken in a saucepan or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Do not refreeze previously frozen instant pot chicken once it has been thawed, as this can compromise the texture and quality of the meat.

Random Fact About Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

The Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is also versatile, as you can customize the barbecue sauce to your liking, whether you prefer a smoky, sweet, or spicy flavor. Additionally, using the Instant Pot helps to lock in the moisture of the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat. It's a convenient and tasty meal solution for anyone craving a homemade barbecue chicken dish.

Is Making Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce Economical for Home Cooking?

This instant pot chicken with barbecue sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of frozen chicken breasts and basic seasonings keeps the cost low. The barbecue sauce adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice for a delicious meal.

Is This Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot chicken with barbecue sauce recipe, while convenient and flavorful, may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe relies on a significant amount of processed ingredients, such as the dry ranch dressing mix and barbecue sauce, which can be high in sodium, sugar, and artificial additives.
The use of frozen chicken breasts may result in a less tender and flavorful outcome compared to fresh chicken.
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients that could provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without compromising on taste:

Opt for a homemade ranch seasoning blend using dried herbs and spices, such as parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder, to reduce sodium and eliminate artificial ingredients.
Choose a low-sugar, natural barbecue sauce or make your own using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for better texture and flavor.
Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as sliced onions, bell peppers, or carrots, to boost the nutritional value and add depth to the flavor profile.
Serve the shredded barbecue chicken over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or a salad for a well-rounded meal.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this instant pot chicken recipe into a healthier, more wholesome option that still satisfies your craving for a quick and delicious meal.

Editor's Thoughts on This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe

The recipe for Instant Pot chicken with barbecue sauce is a quick and convenient way to prepare a flavorful and tender chicken dish. The combination of ranch dressing mix, poultry seasoning, and barbecue sauce adds depth and richness to the chicken. The use of the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken is cooked perfectly and ready to be shredded and coated with the delicious barbecue sauce. It's a simple and delicious recipe that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the barbecue sauce.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob, a classic barbecue side dish that pairs perfectly with the instant pot chicken.

Crispy Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy coleslaw, a refreshing side to balance out the rich and savory flavors of the barbecue chicken.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs before grilling them to perfection on skewers.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Sear the short ribs before braising them in a flavorful liquid until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and fresh mango for a delicious and healthy dessert option.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With Instant Pot Chicken With Barbecue Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze on crispy, toasted baguette slices. This refreshing and vibrant dish is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Instant Pot Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to make a delicious and hassle-free meal. The combination of barbecue sauce and poultry seasoning creates a flavorful and aromatic dish. The use of an instant pot ensures that the chicken is cooked to perfection in a short amount of time, making it a convenient option for busy individuals. The inclusion of ranch dressing mix adds a unique twist to the recipe, guaranteeing a mouthwatering result. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful dining experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken. If using fresh chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding and coating with barbecue sauce.

Can I use a different flavor of barbecue sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite flavor of barbecue sauce to suit your taste preferences. Whether it's smoky, spicy, or sweet, the choice is yours.

Can I double the recipe in the instant pot?

Yes, you can double the recipe as long as it does not exceed the maximum fill line of your instant pot. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. It's important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the shredded chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and toss it with barbecue sauce.