Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken
The Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken recipe has been a lifesaver in my kitchen on those busy weeknights when I crave something flavorful yet easy to prepare. Picture this: it’s a Wednesday evening, and I’ve just returned from a long day at work. The last thing I want to do is spend hours cooking. That’s when I turn to my trusty Instant Pot and this mouthwatering recipe. The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafting through the house makes my stomach rumble with anticipation. I love how quickly I can whip up a dish that feels indulgent without sacrificing my time. Whether I’m hosting friends for a casual game night or just treating my family to a cozy dinner, this recipe never disappoints. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the table, cheering and enjoying the delicious flavors. Plus, cooking chicken in the Instant Pot yields such tender, juicy results, and the combination of the creamy sauce with the kick of heat is simply unforgettable. If you haven’t tried making Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken, you’re in for a treat!
Recipe Snapshot
11 mins
5 mins
6 mins
Easy
320 kcal
40 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
15 g
Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)
Why We Love This Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the primary reasons I adore the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is the speed at which it comes together. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Just toss everything into the pot, set it, and forget it! It’s perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something delicious to enjoy.
Versatile Serving Options
This recipe shines in its versatility. You can serve it as it is, on a bed of rice, or even as a filling for tacos or wraps. The possibilities are endless! I often find myself experimenting with how to serve it, whether it’s over a crisp salad for a lighter meal or in sliders for a fun party dish. Everyone loves it!
Flavorful and Satisfying
The bold flavor of buffalo sauce combined with the creamy richness of cream cheese creates a delightful balance in every bite. Each serving is packed with satisfying taste that leaves you longing for more. It’s the ideal comfort food that can easily satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re like me and enjoy cooking in batches, this recipe is a great option for meal prep! It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for a few days and can be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick meal waiting for you whenever you need it.
Family-Friendly
The Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The flavors are bold but not overwhelmingly spicy, making it suitable for family dinners. My kids love helping out in the kitchen by shredding the chicken, making it a fun and engaging cooking experience.
What to Gather for Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken
When preparing the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken, it’s essential to select quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The key players in this dish are chicken, hot sauce, and cream cheese. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and bold. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the ultimate buffalo chicken experience.
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – The base of our dish, these cuts of chicken ensure tenderness and juiciness.
- 1 cup pineapple juice or low-sodium chicken stock – This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – A must-have for adding aromatic flavor and warmth to the recipe.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – This helps to enhance the taste of the other ingredients, bringing everything together.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Imparts a subtle sweet onion flavor that balances the spice.
- ½ cup hot sauce, such as Frank’s Red Hot – The star of the show, this provides the iconic buffalo flavor that everyone loves.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed (optional) – For a creamier texture, this ingredient creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
The Method for Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken
Cooking the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is a breeze, thanks to the efficient design of the Instant Pot. Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious meal. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can enjoy this flavorful dish!
- Begin by adding 1 cup of pineapple juice or low-sodium chicken stock into the inner pot of the pressure cooker. It’s essential to add this liquid first, as it creates the steam needed for the cooking process.
- Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ cup of hot sauce. This mixture will form the flavorful base for your chicken.
- Now, nestle the 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the seasoned liquid, making sure they are well-coated with the sauce. This step is important as it allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Once everything is in, place the lid on the pressure cooker, ensuring the vent knob is sealed correctly. This is crucial for achieving the right pressure during cooking.
- Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure, using the pressure cook or manual function. The cooking times vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts: for small breasts (about 6 ounces), cook for 6 minutes; for medium breasts (around 8 ounces), cook for 7 minutes; and for large breasts (10 ounces), cook for 8 minutes. If your chicken is frozen, add a few extra minutes to each time.
- After cooking, allow the chicken to release naturally for about 10 minutes. After this time, you can perform a quick release if needed, but be cautious of the steam!
- Next, remove the chicken from the pot and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add 8 ounces of cubed cream cheese directly on top of the chicken. The warmth of the chicken will help soften the cream cheese, allowing for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Ladle in about ½ cup of the cooking liquid from the pot into the mixing bowl. This will help create a nice consistency. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- After the resting period, use two forks to shred the chicken in the bowl, mixing it with the softened cream cheese as you go. Feel free to add more cooking liquid if you prefer a saucier texture.
- Your Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is now ready to serve! You can use it in various dishes or enjoy it on its own with some fresh veggies.
Things Worth Knowing
- Adjusting Spice Level: You can easily modify the heat of the dish by using less hot sauce or opting for a milder sauce. This way, you can cater to your family’s taste preferences.
- High Altitude Cooking: If you’re cooking at high altitudes, consider adjusting the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly.
- Natural Release: Always allow the chicken to release naturally for at least 10 minutes to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
- Shredding Technique: For effortless shredding, make sure the chicken is still warm when you shred it. Cold chicken can be tougher to shred evenly.
Ways to Customize
There are so many ways to customize the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to make this dish uniquely yours!
- Change the Protein: Feel free to swap the chicken for other proteins, like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some diced bell peppers or onions during cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different hot sauces or even a barbecue sauce for a different twist on flavor.
- Top It Off: Consider topping the finished dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an added burst of freshness.
- Serving Styles: Try serving the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken on sliders, over brown rice, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Freezing Portions: If you plan to make a large batch, consider freezing individual portions to enjoy later. Just be sure to store in airtight containers.
Best Served With
When it comes to serving the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas to complement this delicious dish:
- Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Serve with carrot and celery sticks for a crunchy side that balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing pairing with this flavorful chicken.
- Rice: Enjoy it over a bed of fluffy rice, which soaks up the delicious flavors of the buffalo sauce.
- Tortilla Chips: Use it as a dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or snack at parties.
- Wraps: Roll the chicken in tortillas with your favorite toppings for a hearty meal.
- Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or even casual weeknight dinners.
- Freezing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze them for later.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is a standout recipe that combines bold flavors with easy preparation. Every bite is sure to impress, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight meals or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try this delectable dish—your taste buds will thank you!
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken
Equipment
- Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice or low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup hot sauce such as Frank's Red Hot
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed (optional)
Instructions
- In the inner pot of the pressure cooker, add 1 cup of pineapple juice or low-sodium chicken stock, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ cup of hot sauce. Nestle 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the liquid.
- Place the lid on the pressure cooker, and ensure the vent knob is sealed. Set to cook on high pressure using the pressure cook or manual function using the following guidelines for determining the cooking time: Small Chicken Breasts (~6 ounces in size): 6 minutes on HIGH PRESSURE/10 minutes if frozen, Medium/Standard Chicken Breasts (~8 ounces in size): 7 minutes on HIGH PRESSURE/11 minutes if frozen, Large Chicken Breasts (~10 ounces in size): 8 minutes on HIGH PRESSURE/12 minutes if frozen.
- Allow to release naturally for 10 minutes, and then do a quick release if needed.
- Place 8 ounces of cream cheese (cubed) into a large mixing bowl. Remove the chicken from the inner pot and place it directly on top of the cream cheese. Ladle in about ½ cup of the cooking liquid into the mixing bowl as well. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let rest for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, shred the chicken with 2 forks, as you combine it with the cubed cream cheese. Feel free to add additional cooking liquid as needed/desired.
- Serve as desired.
Notes
- Cream Cheese: The cream cheese is optional. Omit it for a lower-fat or dairy-free version of the recipe.
- Storage: Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
