Name: Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 cup chicken broth (or water); 2 lbs chicken breast (raw)

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Shredded chicken is a culinary chameleon perfect for quick lunches, hearty dinners, and everything in between. This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it an essential addition to any meal prep routine. Whether you’re looking to create a base for your tacos, salads, or sandwiches, this recipe delivers moist, flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of shredded chicken ready to elevate any dish.

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Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role in creating layers of flavor that make the chicken tender and delicious. Oregano offers an earthy, slightly bitter undertone, while garlic and onion powders provide a robust base that complements the chicken’s natural flavors. Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness, adding depth without overpowering the dish. The combination of salt and pepper is crucial; they enhance and balance the overall taste. Chicken broth, or water if you prefer, acts as the cooking liquid, ensuring the chicken remains moist while absorbing the rich spices. The star of the show, of course, is the raw chicken breast, which, when cooked under pressure, transforms into a succulent, shreddable protein that can be used in countless ways.

Substituting ingredients can add a creative twist to the recipe. For instance, swapping water for chicken broth still yields moist chicken, but broth infuses more flavor. Experimenting with different spices, like cumin or chili powder, can also tailor the chicken to specific cuisines, making this recipe even more adaptable.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by arranging the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Instant Pot, ensuring they lie flat and are not overlapping. Pour the chicken broth over the meat, allowing it to partially submerge the chicken. Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the chicken, ensuring each breast is well-coated with the blend of oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Once the chicken and seasonings are in place, secure the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is set to sealing. Select the manual high-pressure setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. As the chicken cooks, the pressure within the pot infuses the flavors deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. After the timer goes off, allow the pressure to naturally release for 8-10 minutes. This step is essential, as it prevents the chicken from becoming tough. If any pressure remains after this time, perform a quick release to finish.

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot along with about a cup of the broth. This broth, now enriched with the essence of the chicken and spices, will be used to keep the chicken moist and flavorful as you shred it. Shredding can be done with two forks, pulling the meat apart until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, a hand mixer can be used to speed up the process, especially when dealing with larger quantities. Mix the shredded chicken with the reserved broth, ensuring each strand is coated for maximum flavor.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

To avoid overcooking, make sure to follow the natural release process carefully. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so keeping an eye on the timing is crucial.

For easy shredding, consider using a hand mixer for larger batches. It’s quick and efficient.

To add extra flavor, consider mixing in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of chopped herbs after shredding the chicken.

Preparing this recipe in bulk is a great idea for meal prep. Simply double the ingredients, ensuring the cooking time remains the same.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can. Simply increase the cooking time by 5 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can cook the chicken in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How do I prevent the chicken from being too dry? Use the natural release method and ensure the chicken is well-coated with the broth before shredding.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, doubling the recipe works well. The cooking time remains the same, but make sure not to overcrowd the pot.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This shredded chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a light meal, consider serving it over a bed of fresh greens, turning it into a flavorful salad. It also works wonderfully in tacos—just add some salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese for a quick and satisfying meal. If you’re looking for something heartier, serve the chicken with rice or quinoa, perhaps with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced, nutritious dinner.

For sandwiches, pile the chicken high on a toasted bun, perhaps with some barbecue sauce or aioli, for a delicious lunch or dinner option. This chicken also shines in wraps or quesadillas, where it can be combined with other ingredients like cheese, avocado, or grilled peppers. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a component in your meal prep rotation, this shredded chicken fits seamlessly into a variety of dishes.

Storage and Reheating

To keep your shredded chicken fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of the reserved broth if needed to prevent the chicken from drying out.

For longer storage, divide the shredded chicken into 1-2 cup portions and freeze them in freezer-safe containers. This makes it easy to thaw just the right amount when you need it. To thaw, simply transfer the chicken to the refrigerator the night before, or use the defrost function on your microwave. This method ensures the chicken retains its moisture and flavor even after freezing.

This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe is a game-changer in the kitchen, offering a quick, easy, and flavorful way to prepare chicken for a multitude of dishes. Its versatility makes it a must-have in your meal prep arsenal, providing endless possibilities for delicious, nutritious meals. Whether you’re serving it up with a simple salad, stuffing it into tacos, or incorporating it into a hearty sandwich, this recipe delivers every time. Experiment with different seasonings, pairings, and serving suggestions to make it your own, and enjoy the convenience of having perfectly cooked shredded chicken ready to go whenever you need it.

Ingredients

1 tsp oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp kosher salt
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
2 lbs chicken breast, raw

Instructions

Begin by placing the raw chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, followed by the chicken broth and all the seasonings. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the spices.

Secure the lid, making sure it’s properly sealed, and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 8-10 minutes. If there’s any remaining pressure, do a quick release.

Carefully remove the chicken breasts along with about 1 cup of the broth. Transfer both to a mixing bowl. Shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer, making sure it’s thoroughly combined with the broth for added flavor. Enjoy!

Storage: Place the shredded chicken and any remaining juices or broth in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, divide the shredded chicken into 1-2 cup portions and freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 4 months.