Name: Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 18 to 24 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts (if using frozen thaw before using); 14 to 16 ounces chunky salsa (jar, no sugar added); 1/4 cup dark balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a delicious meal that requires minimal effort and ingredients. That’s where my love for Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos comes in. On those busy weeknights when the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a lifesaver. Picture it: tender, flavorful chicken ready in no time, perfect for piling high on warm tortillas. As soon as I take that first bite, I can’t help but smile, knowing that dinner has never been easier.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Food Processor, Instant Pot

What You’ll Enjoy About This Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos

Quick and Easy

The beauty of the Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos is in its simplicity. With just five core ingredients, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time. This makes it perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by complicated recipes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get dinner on the table.

Flavor Packed

Even though the ingredient list is short, the flavors are anything but bland. The combination of chunky salsa, balsamic vinegar, and spices creates a rich, savory sauce that infuses the chicken with incredible taste. You won’t believe how much flavor you can pack into one dish!

Versatile Serving Options

What I love about these tacos is how versatile they are. You can serve them on corn or whole wheat tortillas, and the toppings are endless. Whether you like fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This is a meal that can be customized to suit any palate.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to make your week easier, these tacos are great for meal prep. I often make a big batch on Sundays, and they keep well in the fridge. You can quickly reheat them for lunches or dinners throughout the week, making your life just a little less hectic.

Kid-Friendly

These tacos are a hit with kids too! The flavors are mild yet satisfying, and the hands-on nature of assembling their own tacos makes it a fun meal. Even the pickiest eaters seem to love them, which is always a win in my house.

Ingredient List for Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos

The ingredients for Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos are not only simple but also work beautifully together to create a delightful dish. The key players include chicken for protein, salsa for flavor, and spices to add that extra kick. Together, they create a mouthwatering combination that’s both satisfying and healthy.

18 to 24 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts: This is the main ingredient, offering protein that cooks beautifully in the Instant Pot. Make sure to thaw if using frozen.
14 to 16 ounces chunky salsa: This adds a kick of flavor and moisture to the chicken, making it the star of the dish.
1/4 cup dark balsamic vinegar: This ingredient complements the salsa, adding depth and a touch of sweetness.
2 tablespoons chili powder: A must for spice lovers, it brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
1 tablespoon ground cumin: This adds an earthy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tacos.

Putting Together Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos

Making Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos is as easy as it gets! You’ll love watching the magic happen as the flavors meld together in the Instant Pot. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal for your family.

Begin by placing all the ingredients into your Instant Pot. I like to start with the chicken at the bottom, followed by the salsa, balsamic vinegar, chili powder, and cumin. Make sure the lid is securely closed and the vent is set to “sealed” for maximum pressure cooking.
Next, press the “poultry” button. Adjust the pressure to high using the “adjust” button. Set the timer for 25 minutes. If you’re like me, you might get impatient waiting for the Instant Pot to preheat, but trust me, it’s worth it when you taste the results!
Once the timer goes off, you’ll want to let the Instant Pot sit for about 5 minutes to naturally release some pressure. After that, carefully vent the pot to release any remaining steam. Use a towel to protect your hand from the steam—safety first!
Open the lid and take out the chicken. It should be tender and easy to shred. I like to use two forks for this part. Shred it right in the pot to soak up all that wonderful sauce.
Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and stir until it’s well coated with the sauce. At this stage, you can taste it; I often find it doesn’t need any additional seasoning!
Serve the mixture on your choice of warm tortillas. I love using corn tortillas, but whole wheat works great too. Top with your favorite toppings—like diced onions, avocado, or cilantro—making each taco unique!

Things Worth Knowing

Chicken Thawing: If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the Instant Pot from having trouble reaching pressure.
Texture Check: The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily once cooked. If it isn’t, you may need to cook for a few more minutes.
Cooking Liquid: The salsa and balsamic vinegar provide enough liquid for pressure cooking, so don’t worry about adding extra.
Taco Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Fresh herbs, cheese, or a squeeze of lime can elevate your tacos to another level.

Variations to Try

Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations you can try with Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos. Each suggestion adds its unique twist to this versatile dish.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: This recipe freezes well! Portion out into freezer-safe bags and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian take. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Style: Try serving the chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa for a different presentation. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
Fiesta Flavor: Add a can of black beans or corn to the mix for added texture and flavor in your tacos.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos, the options are as exciting as the recipe itself! Here are some ideas that enhance the dining experience:

Side Dishes: Pair your tacos with a refreshing side salad or some chips and guacamole. The crunch complements the soft tacos perfectly.
Occasions: These tacos are perfect for casual family dinners or even when hosting friends for game day. They’re easy to make in large batches!
Storage Tips: If you have extras, store the chicken mixture separately from the tortillas to prevent them from getting soggy.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with fresh corn on the cob, while in winter, a warm soup could round out the meal nicely.
Build Your Own: Turn dinner into a fun event by letting everyone build their own tacos with various toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, or pico de gallo.
Garnishing Styles: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime can brighten up the dish and add a pop of flavor.

FAQ

Absolutely! Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat. This is a great way to save time during busy weekdays!

The options are endless! You can use toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream. Consider adding some pickled jalapeños if you like it spicy. Make each taco your own!

Yes, you can freeze the chicken mixture! Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Easy and convenient!

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos. Substitute the chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful!

Conclusion

In summary, Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Chicken Tacos are truly a game-changer for busy weeknights. They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and loved by the whole family. I encourage you to try making them for your next dinner. You won’t be disappointed!