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Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Recipe Snapshot
PREP + COOK TIME: under 45 minutes (including time to pressurize)
METHOD: Instant Pot
OTHER TOOLS: forks or mixer
TOTAL INGREDIENTS: 2
Looking for a simple way to make mealtime easier? Instant Pot shredded chicken is the perfect protein solution! With just boneless skinless chicken thighs and some broth, you’ll have juicy shredded meat ready to store in the fridge or freezer for quick, tasty meals.
What’s To Love About This Recipe
- Shredded chicken is ready in under 45 minutes with minimal prep – making it a great option to make ahead for busy days.
- The Instant Pot ensures perfectly cooked, tender meat every time. This is one of my favorite ways to cook a big batch of chicken!
- This is a freezer-friendly recipe! Make plenty to portion out and store for recipes later on.
- Shredded chicken is a versatile protein that works well in salads, tacos, pasta, sandwiches, and more. Even just a little bit extra stored in your fridge or freezer can make all the difference when you need a quick meal or two.
- This is super easy to customize! Season the chicken with whatever flavors you need for a particular dish or just personal preference.
Ingredients Needed
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs – I prefer to use chicken thighs because of the richer flavor. Thighs do have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, but that helps them to stay juicy and tender. Be sure to use boneless and skinless meat for easy shredding.
- Chicken broth – The chicken should be covered with plenty of liquid to create the necessary pressure for the Instant Pot and also to prevent drying out. Use your preferred broth – I love to use bone broth for increased flavor and nutrition!
How To Make Shredded Chicken In The Instant Pot
- Add chicken thighs to the Instant Pot.
- Add enough chicken broth to fully cover the chicken.
- Add lid, seal, and set to high pressure for 12 minutes.
- Once cooking time has completed, allow pressure to release naturally.
- Remove chicken to a separate bowl and shred using two forks or a mixer.
- Divide the chicken into desired serving sizes and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Use shredded chicken in desired recipes.
Pro Tips:
- You can easily halve or double the recipe so you can make just the amount you need. Adjust the liquid slightly if scaling up, but the cooking time stays the same.
- The best way to shred the chicken is manually with two forks, or for super quick shredding, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
- Use broth for more flavor, but water works in a pinch.
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture before shredding.
Add 5 minutes to the cooking time if you use frozen chicken thighs.
Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken – Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving since they don’t tend to dry out as easily. Chicken breasts might be more appealing to some people since the meat is leaner, however, they are more prone to drying out. Both options can work in the Instant Pot – it’s just a matter of preference!
- Seasoning – I like to leave the chicken thighs plain and add seasoning as I use the meat in various dishes. Mix seasonings with portions once cooked or when reheating to use in various recipes. Here are a few ideas:
- Use an Italian blend for chicken with pasta dishes
- Add taco seasoning for Mexican meals
- Season with BBQ rub for sandwiches and sliders
- Add Cajun seasoning for rice bowls
- Broth – Feel free to use your preferred chicken broth for the most flavor (e.g. bone broth, reduced sodium, etc.), or use vegetable broth or water.
- Slow Cooker variation – Shredded chicken is also super easy to prep in the slow cooker! Simply add chicken, seasoning, and broth to the slow cooker, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remove from liquid and shred.
How To Use Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Use shredded chicken as your main source of protein in so many different meal options!
- Toss shredded chicken with taco seasoning to make Chicken Tacos or Meal Prep Burrito Bowls.
- Add chicken to alfredo, marinara, or pesto pasta.
- Stir cooked, shredded chicken into soups for added protein.
- Add chicken to salad greens, or mix up Shredded Chicken Salad.
- Toss cooked chicken with BBQ sauce and serve on toasted buns with a side of Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
Storing and Reheating
Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze in portion-sized bags, containers, or Souper Cubes for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat and serve, use the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. If you use the microwave, reheat it in short bursts, stirring it in between.
Shredded chicken is also delicious served cold on salads or mixed up as chicken salad!
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Looking for a simple way to make mealtime easier? Instant Pot shredded chicken is the perfect protein solution! With just boneless skinless chicken thighs and some broth, you’ll have juicy shredded meat ready to store in the fridge or freezer for quick, tasty meals.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Add chicken thighs to Instant Pot
- Add enough chicken broth to fully cover chicken
- Add lid, seal, and set to high pressure for 12 minutes
- Once cooking time has completed, allow pressure to release naturally
- Remove chicken to a separate bowl and shred using two forks or a mixer
- Divide chicken into desired serving sizes and store in an airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
- Use shredded chicken in desired recipes
Notes
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Or, enjoy it cold with salads or chicken salad!
- This recipe can be halved or doubled. Adjust the liquid slightly if scaling up, but the cooking time will stay the same.
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture before shredding.
- Add 5 minutes to cooking time if using frozen thighs.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken FAQs
- Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in my Instant Pot? Yes! Increase the cook time to 14-15 minutes on high pressure.
- Why is the chicken dry after cooking in the Instant Pot? Overcooking or not enough liquid can dry out the chicken. Use chicken thighs for better moisture retention, and ensure the chicken is covered with liquid for best results.
