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Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Thighs

What’s one of the smartest things you can do for yourself in the kitchen? Make up a batch of shredded chicken to have on hand for quick and easy meals! Boneless skinless chicken thighs cook up perfectly in the Instant Pot for amazingly simple meal prep.

closeup of shredded chicken thighs in a bowl

Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: The Great Debate

Which is better–chicken thighs or breasts? No matter who you ask, people’s opinions come down to three points: nutrition, flavor, and ease of use. All chicken is a great source of lean protein. Both breasts and thighs have 24+ grams of protein per serving. They’re both full of healthy calories, so either cut is a nutritious choice. Now, chicken thighs DO have a higher fat content (approximately twice the fat as breasts) but that’s what gives them a better flavor. It’s also what makes chicken thighs easier to cook with since they don’t start sticking to cookware as quickly as chicken breasts. In my opinion, chicken thighs are the way to go!

raw chicken thighs in an instant pot

Ingredients

Do I need to add seasoning to my Shredded Chicken Thighs? You can if you want to, but it isn’t necessary. Adding seasoning is OK. However, if you will be using your Shredded Chicken Thighs for various dishes, it’s best to leave them plain. You’ll love the versatility that plain Chicken Thighs give you for meal prep.

Can I add ingredients to make my Shredded Chicken Thighs more nutritious? Yes! I love using bone broth instead of regular chicken stock. It will add even more flavor and nutrition to any dish you choose to put Shredded Chicken Thighs in.

raw chicken thighs and broth in an instant pot

Preparation

Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in my Instant Pot? Yes, you can! Just be sure to add 5 minutes to cooking time and your Chicken Thighs will turn out juicy and delicious every time!

How do I make sure my Instant Pot pressurizes correctly? Allow natural pressure release for best results with meat. Be sure to plan the extra time (about 10-15 minutes) on top of cook time and time for the pot to come to pressure.

What if I don’t have enough broth? You can use water but your Chicken Thighs will lose flavor. Chicken needs to be covered with liquid for best cooking results.

shredded chicken thighs in a bowl with electric mixer

Serving Suggestions

How do I serve Shredded Chicken Thighs? Your Shredded Chicken Thighs can be used in chicken pot pie, casseroles, tacos, wraps, salads, or anything your mind can conceive! Plus, Shredded Chicken Thighs are GREAT for meal prep. Check out the Meal Prep section of this blog to find options for making meal planning a breeze!

shredded chicken thighs in meal prep containers

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Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

closeup of shredded chicken thighs in a bowl
closeup of shredded chicken thighs in a bowl

Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Thighs

Print Recipe
What's one of the smartest things you can do for yourself in the kitchen? Make up a batch of shredded chicken to have on hand for quick and easy meals! Boneless skinless chicken thighs cook up perfectly in the Instant Pot for amazingly simple meal prep.
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Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Pressurize:25 minutes
Total Time:42 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Instructions

  • Add chicken to 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 breasts to separate bowl and shred using forks or mixer
  • Divide into desired serving sizes and store in air tight containers in fridge for up to 3 days or freezer up to 3 months
  • Use in desired recipes

Notes

  • Add 5 minutes to cooking time if using frozen thighs
  • Use bone broth instead of regular chicken stock for added nutrition
  • Use water if you don’t have enough broth. Chicken needs to be covered with liquid for best cooking results.

Nutrition

Calories: 276kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 215mg | Sodium: 632mg | Potassium: 650mg | Vitamin A: 57IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 2mg
Course: Meal Prep
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 cups
Calories: 276kcal

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