Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of Instant Pot BBQ Chicken wafting through the house, isn’t there? On a busy weeknight, when the world feels chaotic, I often rely on this dish to bring everyone together around the dinner table. I remember the first time I tried making this recipe; I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve that tender, flavorful chicken in such a short time. It quickly became a family favorite, especially during grilling season when the cravings for smoky BBQ flavors hit hard. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner with loved ones.

What to Gather for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

The ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken come together to create a delightful symphony of flavors. Each component plays its part beautifully. Chicken is the star of the show, absorbing the spices and sauces to deliver mouthwatering results. The spices add depth, while the BBQ sauce brings that classic, tangy sweetness we all crave.

• 1 tablespoon chili powder – This spice provides a warm, smoky flavor that forms the base of your seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Earthy and slightly citrusy, it enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a rich, smoky depth; it’s what makes this dish irresistibly tasty.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Imparts a sweet, savory taste that complements the other spices.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a hint of garlic goodness without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this recipe.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and balances the spices.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – Used for browning the chicken, providing richness.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein, ensuring your meal is hearty and filling.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Creates a flavorful base for cooking the chicken.
• 1½ cups BBQ sauce (divided) – This is what makes the chicken BBQ! It provides that wonderful sweet and tangy glaze.

Step by Step Guide for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Cooking the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is an enjoyable experience that keeps you engaged from start to finish. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together! Let’s dive into the steps that lead to a mouthwatering meal.

1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix these spices well to ensure an even flavor.
2. Take your chicken breasts and rub them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Next, coat the chicken with the spice mixture generously, making sure every surface is covered. This will create a wonderful flavor that seeps into the meat while it cooks.
3. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the remaining olive oil. Allow it to heat up for a minute or two. This step is essential for browning the chicken, which adds depth to the flavor.
4. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pot, two at a time. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until they are beautifully browned. This step locks in the juices!
5. After browning, press the Cancel button on your Instant Pot to stop the sautéing process. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in ½ cup of BBQ sauce. This creates a flavorful sauce that will keep the chicken moist during cooking.
6. Now, add the seared chicken breasts back into the pot, making sure they’re nestled in the liquid. This will help the chicken cook evenly.
7. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to Manual mode. Adjust the timer to cook for 10 minutes. It’s amazing how quickly the Instant Pot can work its magic!
8. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial; it ensures your chicken remains juicy and tender.
9. After the natural release, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Brush them with the remaining BBQ sauce until they are coated to your liking. This final touch adds a delicious, sticky glaze that everyone will love.

Things Worth Knowing

Tips and Tricks about Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Here are some helpful tips to make your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken even better!

• Marinating: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours before cooking.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Side Dishes: Serve with baked beans or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Meal Prep: This chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Grilling Option: If you prefer, you can finish the chicken on the grill after pressure cooking for that classic BBQ char.

Great Combinations for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

When it comes to serving Instant Pot BBQ Chicken, the possibilities are endless!

• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the rich BBQ flavors.
• Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and pile it on a bun for a yummy BBQ chicken sandwich.
• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a nice contrast to the savory chicken.
• Seasonal Sides: In summer, fresh corn on the cob and grilled veggies are fantastic accompaniments.
• Dinner Parties: This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves happy.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful, tender chicken with minimal effort. With its combination of spices and BBQ sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies both cravings and the need for a quick meal. I encourage you to give it a try, and I promise it will become a regular in your weekly dinner rotation. Happy cooking!

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is a deliciously easy weeknight dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Tender, juicy chicken coated in sweet, tangy BBQ sauce creates a dish full of flavor that's perfect for family meals or entertaining. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (divided)
• 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
• 1½ cups BBQ Sauce (divided)

Instructions

 

• Combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a small dish. Rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the spice mixture on the chicken breasts, fully coating them.
• Add the remaining olive oil to the Instant Pot. Press the Sauté button. Once the oil is heated, brown the chicken breasts, two at a time, on each side for 2 minutes.
• Press the Cancel button. Add in the chicken broth and ½ cup BBQ sauce and stir. Add in the chicken breasts.
• Press the Manual button and set the timer for 10 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
• Remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot. Brush with remaining BBQ sauce until coated to your liking.

Notes

• Natural Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure ensures the chicken stays moist and tender, while a quick release can lead to dryness.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s great for meal prep!
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with coleslaw or cornbread for a complete BBQ experience.

Keyword BBQ Chicken Recipe, Easy Instant Pot Recipes, Family Dinner Ideas, Instant Pot Chicken

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.