Name: Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 6 to 8 Foster Farms Bone-in Skin-on Chicken Thighs ((or boneless skinless)); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste); ¾ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano (rubbed between your fingers to break into smaller bits); ¾ teaspoon chile powder; ¾ teaspoon ground cumin; ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 onion (peeled and sliced into large rings); 1 jalapeno (halved); 4 garlic cloves; ½ orange (zest and juice of); 1 lime (zest and juice of)

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Every time I make Instant Pot Chicken Tacos, it feels like a little fiesta in my kitchen. The aroma of spices fills the air, and I can already imagine the joy on my family’s faces when they get their first bite. I remember the first time I tried making these tacos; I was a bit intimidated by the Instant Pot. But as soon as the pressure built and that magical ‘ding’ went off, I knew I was in for a treat. These tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience, often bringing everyone together around the table. The satisfying crunch of fresh tortillas and the zest of lime just makes everything pop. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, trust me, you’re missing out on a deliciously easy weeknight dinner!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
17 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28g g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
20g g

Tools Used:
Peeler, Instant Pot, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Quick and Easy

One of the best things about Instant Pot Chicken Tacos is how straightforward they are to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner ready in less than an hour. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with family.

Flavor Bomb

The seasoning mix in this recipe is an explosion of flavor! Combining kosher salt, dried Mexican oregano, chile powder, ground cumin, and black pepper makes each bite savory and satisfying. The addition of fresh ingredients like garlic, jalapeno, and zesty citrus adds depth and brightness that will make your taste buds dance.

Versatile Filling

What I love about these tacos is their versatility. You can switch up the toppings to suit your preference—add chopped onion, cilantro, or your favorite salsa. Plus, they’re just as delicious in a bowl if you’re looking for a low-carb option!

Fun for Everyone

Make taco night a family affair! Set up a taco bar with all the toppings, and let everyone make their own creations. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved, especially the kids, who love assembling their tacos just the way they like.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These Instant Pot Chicken Tacos are fantastic for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch, shred the chicken, and store it for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat and assemble for an effortless lunch or dinner.

Great for Gatherings

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a get-together with friends, these tacos are always a hit. The ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying your guests and less time in the kitchen. Everyone will love the chance to customize their tacos!

Key Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

When it comes to creating the perfect tacos, the key ingredients are vital. Each component plays a role in bringing out the flavors and textures that make Instant Pot Chicken Tacos so special. From the tender chicken to the zesty toppings, these ingredients work harmoniously to deliver a delicious meal.

6 to 8 Foster Farms Bone-in Skin-on Chicken Thighs (or boneless skinless): These chicken thighs provide rich flavor and tenderness, making them the perfect base for the tacos.
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste: Essential for enhancing flavor, this salt helps season the chicken perfectly.
¾ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano: A must for any Mexican dish, this herb adds a wonderful aroma and taste.
¾ teaspoon chile powder: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
¾ teaspoon ground cumin: This spice contributes a warm nuttiness that is signature in many Mexican flavors.
¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and depth.
1 onion, peeled and sliced into large rings: The onion provides sweetness and a lovely texture when cooked.
1 jalapeno, halved: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the jalapeno brings a nice kick.
4 garlic cloves: A flavor powerhouse that adds depth to the chicken.
Zest and juice of ½ orange: Adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the spices.
Zest and juice of 1 lime: This brings freshness and acidity, enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Making Instant Pot Chicken Tacos is a breeze, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

First, remove the skin from the chicken thighs and discard it or save for another use, like making crispy chicken skin in the oven. This step ensures your tacos aren’t greasy.
In a small bowl, add kosher salt, dried Mexican oregano, chile powder, ground cumin, and black pepper. Stir to combine these spices thoroughly.
Next, take your seasoning mix and generously season the entire surface of the chicken. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
Now, place the onion rings in the bottom of the Instant Pot in an even layer. This will create a lovely base that flavors the chicken as it cooks.
Carefully put the seasoned chicken on top of the onion rings. Tuck the jalapeno halves and garlic cloves between the chicken pieces to infuse even more flavor during cooking.
Next, sprinkle the citrus zest over the chicken. Then, pour the citrus juice down the side of the Instant Pot, ensuring it reaches the bottom without disturbing the spices too much.
Seal the lid on the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. The magic will happen as all those flavors meld together.
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for up to 15 minutes. This step helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Using tongs, transfer the chicken to a large container. Shred the meat using two forks, and season to taste with more salt if needed. Discard any bones.
Next, strain the cooking liquid and return it to the pot. Using the sauté function, reduce the sauce until it thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes. This will intensify the flavors.
Toss the shredded chicken back in the sauce. Give it a good mix, and check for seasoning one last time.
Finally, warm your flour tortillas on the stovetop. Top them with the flavorful chicken filling, chopped onion, cilantro, and salsa. Finish with a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up.

Things Worth Knowing

Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to modify the seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer a little more heat, add more jalapeno or some hot sauce.
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro make a great topping. They can elevate the taste of your tacos significantly!
Cooking Times: Ensure you’re familiar with your Instant Pot’s settings, as cooking times may vary slightly between models.

Recipe Notes about Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Here are some helpful tips to get the most out of your Instant Pot Chicken Tacos.

Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the shredded chicken for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Serving Styles: Consider serving the tacos with fresh guacamole or a side of rice for a heartier meal.
Variations: Try using different types of meat or even a vegetarian option with beans.
Make it a Fiesta: Add a variety of toppings to create a taco bar, letting everyone customize their own.

What Goes Well With This Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

When serving Instant Pot Chicken Tacos, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas that complement this dish perfectly:

Side Salads: A fresh, crunchy salad with corn, avocado, and lime dressing pairs wonderfully.
Rice Dishes: Serve with Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice for a filling meal.
Beans: Black or pinto beans can be a great source of protein and add heartiness to your meal.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, fresh fruits like mango or watermelon can lighten the meal.
Occasional Serving: These tacos are perfect for casual dinners, game days, or even taco night with friends.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, keep them in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring all ingredients are stored in airtight containers.

FAQ

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, and they will work just as well. Just remember that boneless chicken might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the time to avoid overcooking.

If you love heat, you can easily amp up the spice level. Consider adding more jalapeno, using a spicier variety of chile powder, or even incorporating some diced fresh serrano peppers into the mix.

Yes! You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it before serving, and you can have a quick meal ready to go!

The sky’s the limit when it comes to toppings! I recommend fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, or a splash of your favorite salsa. Feel free to get creative and personalize them to your taste!

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Tacos are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. If you’re looking for an easy way to impress at dinner, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, grab your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy these tasty tacos!