[Full Guide] How Long To Make Pulled Chicken In Instant Pot?

Making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to whip up a delicious meal. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capability ensures that the chicken turns out tender and flavorful in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process of preparing and cooking pulled chicken in an Instant Pot, from selecting the right chicken cuts to troubleshooting common issues that may arise.

Quick Answer: How Long To Make Pulled Chicken In Instant Pot

The quick answer to how long it takes to make pulled chicken in an Instant Pot is approximately 20 to 25 minutes of high pressure cooking, with additional time for the pressure to build and release. However, various factors such as the size of the chicken pieces and the specific Instant Pot model may slightly alter the cooking time.

Selection

When making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot, it’s important to start with the right type of chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the most ideal cuts for this recipe. Opting for boneless and skinless cuts will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and shreds easily after cooking.

Preparation

Before the cooking process begins, proper preparation is key to achieving the best results. Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken cuts, and season them according to your preferred flavor profile. Common seasonings for pulled chicken include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Additionally, adding a cup of chicken broth or water to the Instant Pot will help create steam and prevent the chicken from sticking to the pot.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Pulled Chicken

The cooking time for making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot can vary based on the size and thickness of the chicken cuts. However, a general guideline for cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in an Instant Pot for pulled chicken is as follows:

• For boneless, skinless chicken breasts: High pressure cook for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
• For boneless, skinless chicken thighs: High pressure cook for 12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

It’s important to keep in mind that these cooking times are estimates, and factors such as the precise thickness of the chicken and variations between Instant Pot models may necessitate some adjustments.

How To Make Pulled Chicken In Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Chili powder
• 1 cup of chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings.

2. Add Liquid to Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot. This will create the necessary steam for pressure cooking and prevent the chicken from sticking to the pot.

3. Place Chicken in Instant Pot: Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the Instant Pot.

4. Set Instant Pot: Close the Instant Pot and ensure the sealing ring is in place. Set the Instant Pot to manual mode and adjust the cooking time based on the guidelines provided earlier.

5. Pressure Cook: Once you have set the cooking time, initiate the pressure cooking process by selecting the appropriate setting. The Instant Pot will take some time to build up pressure before the actual cooking time begins.

6. Natural Pressure Release: After the cooking time is completed, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This helps the chicken to retain its juices and ensure tenderness.

7. Shred the Chicken: Once the pressure is fully released, carefully open the Instant Pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot.

8. Serve or Store: Your pulled chicken is now ready to be served as is, or it can be used in a variety of dishes such as tacos, sandwiches, salads, or pasta.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

During the process of making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot, you may encounter a few common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

Chicken Is Undercooked

If the chicken is undercooked after the recommended cooking time, simply reseal the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes on high pressure to ensure thorough cooking.

Chicken Is Overcooked

Overcooked chicken may result in a dry and stringy texture. To salvage overcooked chicken, consider adding a small amount of chicken broth or barbecue sauce to moisten and improve its texture.

Chicken Sticking To The Pot

To prevent the chicken from sticking to the pot, ensure that you add enough liquid, such as chicken broth or water, before pressure cooking. Additionally, using the "Saute" function before pressure cooking to lightly brown the seasoned chicken can help minimize sticking.

Seasoning Is Not Flavorful

If the seasoned chicken lacks flavor after cooking, consider sautéing the shredded chicken with additional seasoning or a splash of barbecue sauce to enhance its taste.

Unevenly Cooked Chicken

To ensure even cooking, make sure to cut the chicken pieces to a consistent thickness before seasoning and cooking. For larger pieces, consider adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure uniform doneness.

Making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot is a straightforward process that yields tender and flavorful results. By selecting the right chicken cuts, properly seasoning and cooking them in the Instant Pot, you can easily create a versatile and delicious protein that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Knowing how to troubleshoot common cooking issues ensures that your pulled chicken turns out perfectly every time. With this comprehensive guide at your disposal, you can confidently embark on the journey of making delectable pulled chicken in your Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Pulled Chicken

Pulled chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more. Traditionally, making pulled chicken involves slow-cooking the meat for several hours, but with the help of an Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, flavorful pulled chicken in a fraction of the time.

One of the advantages of using an Instant Pot is the ability to cook frozen meat without the need for thawing. This is especially convenient when you forget to defrost the chicken in advance. However, it’s important to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and tender. Here’s a general guideline for cooking frozen chicken in an Instant Pot:

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. This will result in moist and easily shredded meat.

2. Bone-in Chicken Thighs: For bone-in chicken thighs, cook on high pressure for 15-18 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. The meat should easily fall off the bone when pulled.

It’s important to note that these cook times are approximate and can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Achieving Perfect Texture

The key to achieving the perfect texture for pulled chicken lies in the cooking time and pressure release method. Cooking the chicken for too long can result in dry and overcooked meat, while undercooking can lead to tough and chewy chicken. Additionally, the pressure release method can affect the tenderness of the chicken.

For tender and juicy pulled chicken, follow these steps:

1. Cook on High Pressure: Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure according to the recommended cook times mentioned earlier.

2. Natural Release: After the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes. This helps the chicken to retain its moisture and continue cooking gently.

3. Quick Release: After the natural release, carefully perform a quick release of the remaining pressure according to the Instant Pot manufacturer’s instructions. This will stop the cooking process and prevent the chicken from becoming overcooked.

Following these steps will result in perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth pulled chicken that is easy to shred.

Flavor Infusion

While the Instant Pot excels at cooking chicken to perfection, it also provides an opportunity to infuse incredible flavors into the meat. Here are a few techniques to enhance the taste of your pulled chicken:

1. Marinade: Before cooking the chicken, marinate it in a flavorful mixture for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator. A simple marinade can include ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, spices, and garlic. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking process will help the chicken absorb the flavors from the marinade, resulting in a more delicious and aromatic pulled chicken.

2. Sauté Function: Utilize the sauté function on your Instant Pot to brown the chicken before cooking. This adds a rich caramelized flavor to the meat that complements the tenderness obtained through pressure cooking. Sauté the chicken in a little oil until it develops a golden-brown color on the outside. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhanced taste.

3. Broth or Stock: Instead of using plain water, substitute it with chicken broth or stock when pressure cooking the chicken. This adds depth of flavor and richness to the meat. You can also incorporate spices, herbs, or even a splash of soy sauce to the broth for additional seasoning.

By using these flavor infusion techniques, you can create pulled chicken that is not only tender but also bursting with delicious flavors.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Pulled Chicken

In addition to pressure cooking, the Instant Pot offers various other cooking methods that can be used to make pulled chicken. Here are a few alternative methods you can try:

1. Slow Cooker Function: If you prefer the traditional slow-cooked texture for your pulled chicken, you can use the slow cooker function on your Instant Pot. Simply place the chicken in the pot, add your desired seasonings and liquid, and set the Instant Pot to cook on the slow cooker setting. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

2. Combination Cooking: For those who want to achieve the best of both worlds — the speed of pressure cooking and the tenderness of slow cooking — you can utilize a combination cooking method. Start by pressure cooking the chicken for the recommended time to ensure it is fully cooked. Then switch to the slow cooker function and let the chicken simmer on low heat for an additional 1-2 hours. This method allows the flavors to deepen and the meat to become even more succulent.

3. Broil Function: Want to add some char and a crispy edge to your pulled chicken? After pressure cooking the chicken and shredding it, spread the meat on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes. This will give the chicken a slightly caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Experimenting with different cooking methods can help you achieve the desired texture and flavors for your pulled chicken. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques and find the method that suits your taste preferences.

Instant Pot Tips For Pulled Chicken

To ensure success with your Instant Pot pulled chicken, here are a few additional tips:

1. Cut Chicken into Similar Sized Pieces: For even cooking, it’s best to cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces. This will help ensure that all the chicken pieces cook at the same rate.

2. Use a Trivet: Placing a trivet at the bottom of the Instant Pot before adding the chicken can prevent the meat from sticking to the bottom and burning. This is especially useful if you’re using a marinade or sauce.

3. Avoid Overfilling: When pressure cooking, it’s important not to overfill the Instant Pot. Leave enough space for the pressure to build and circulate properly. As a general rule, fill the Instant Pot no more than two-thirds full.

4. Preheat the Instant Pot: Preheating the Instant Pot before adding the chicken can help achieve more consistent cooking results. Simply select the sauté function, add a little oil, and let it heat for a minute or two. Then coat the chicken with the oil and proceed with the pressure cooking steps.

5. Adjust Seasonings After Cooking: If you find that the flavors of the pulled chicken are not as pronounced as you’d like, you can always adjust the seasonings after the cooking process. Add more salt, spices, or herbs to taste and mix well before serving.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your pulled chicken turns out perfectly every time.

Creative Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipes And Variations

Now that you have mastered the art of making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot, it’s time to get creative with different recipes and variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. BBQ Pulled Chicken: Toss the shredded chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce for a classic BBQ pulled chicken. Serve it on buns with coleslaw for the ultimate sandwich experience.

2. Buffalo Chicken Dip: Mix the shredded chicken with cream cheese, hot sauce, and some shredded cheese for a delicious buffalo chicken dip. Serve it warm with tortilla chips or veggies for dipping.

3. Mexican Pulled Chicken: Season the shredded chicken with cumin, chili powder, and paprika for a Mexican twist. Use it as a filling for tacos or enchiladas, or serve it over rice and beans.

4. Asian-inspired Pulled Chicken: Combine the shredded chicken with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a dash of honey for an Asian-inspired pulled chicken. Serve it in lettuce wraps or over rice noodles for a refreshing and flavorful meal.

5. Pulled Chicken Salad: Toss the shredded chicken with your favorite salad greens, chopped vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light and satisfying pulled chicken salad.

6. Pulled Chicken Pizza: Spread barbecue sauce or tomato sauce on a pizza crust and top it with the shredded chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a delicious pulled chicken pizza.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless. Feel free to experiment with different sauces, spices, and ingredients to create your own unique pulled chicken creations.

Conclusion

Making pulled chicken in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this flavorful dish. By following the recommended cook times, achieving the perfect texture, infusing flavors, exploring alternative cooking methods, and using the provided tips, you can create tender and delicious pulled chicken every time. So grab your Instant Pot, some chicken, and get ready to enjoy a variety of pulled chicken recipes that will impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.

FAQS

What Is An Instant Pot And How Does It Work?

An Instant Pot is a multifunctional electric pressure cooker that uses high pressure to cook food quickly. It has various preset cooking functions that are controlled digitally, making it easy to use and maintain consistent cooking temperatures and times.

How Long Does It Take To Make Pulled Chicken In An Instant Pot?

Cooking times may vary, but on average it takes about 20 minutes to bring the Instant Pot to pressure, 10 minutes to cook the chicken, and another 10 minutes for a natural pressure release. This means it can be ready in about 40 minutes.

Should I Use Fresh Or Frozen Chicken For Pulled Chicken In An Instant Pot?

Either fresh or frozen chicken can be used for this recipe. However, frozen chicken will take slightly longer to come to pressure and may result in a slightly longer overall cooking time.

What Type Of Chicken Should I Use For Pulled Chicken In An Instant Pot?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for pulled chicken in an Instant Pot. They are leaner and cook more quickly compared to bone-in chicken.

Can I Make BBQ Pulled Chicken In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make BBQ pulled chicken in an Instant Pot by first cooking the chicken with your desired seasonings and then adding in BBQ sauce before shredding. You can also use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to cook the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce to thicken and caramelize it.