Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

Whenever I crave something comforting yet uncomplicated, I turn to Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos. This dish has become a family favorite, and I can hardly keep my children from stealing bites straight out of the pot! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can effortlessly whip it up during a busy weeknight or serve it at a casual gathering with friends. I love how the tender, shredded chicken combined with vibrant flavors makes it an instant hit. Plus, who doesn’t love a taco night? Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner at home, these tacos never disappoint.

It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can yield such delightful flavors. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was drawn in by the idea of using the Instant Pot. The thought of pressure cooking the chicken to achieve that perfect tenderness in such a short time was simply irresistible. As the chicken cooked, my kitchen filled with enticing aromas that made my mouth water. Before long, I was eagerly assembling my tacos, topping them with fresh cilantro and my favorite fixings. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and I knew I had found a new staple in my cooking routine.

With Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos, you’re not just making dinner; you’re creating memories. I often find myself reminiscing about the laughter and joy shared around the table as we enjoy these flavorful tacos. So, gather your family or friends, and dive into a delicious taco night that everyone will rave about!

What Goes Into Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

When it comes to creating Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos, the ingredients you choose are crucial for developing richness and flavor. The core components work harmoniously to ensure each bite is perfectly seasoned and succulent. The beauty of this dish is how simple yet flavorful the ingredients are, making it accessible for every home cook.

• 1 ½ lb of chicken breast – The star of the show, chicken breast creates a lean and juicy base. Pressure cooking ensures it remains tender and easily shreddable.
• 1 cup of chicken broth – This adds moisture and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons of orange juice – The citrus brightens up the dish and balances the spices, providing a refreshing twist.
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice – Similar to the orange juice, lime juice adds acidity and enhances the flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons of chili powder – This spice adds warmth and depth, giving the chicken a subtle kick.
• ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder – Garlic powder provides a lovely savory note that complements the chicken beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon of cumin – Cumin adds a nutty, earthy flavor that rounds out the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon of oregano – This herb contributes a hint of earthiness and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
• ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper – For those who like a bit of heat, cayenne packs an extra punch.
• ½ teaspoon of sea salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon of pepper – Adds a mild heat and balances the seasoning.
• ⅓ cup of cilantro, freshly chopped – A fresh herb that adds brightness and a burst of flavor, perfect for garnishing.
• Taco fixings: tortillas, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, etc. – These are essential for serving and allow everyone to customize their tacos according to their taste.

Recipe Directions for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

Let’s dive into the cooking process for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos. You’ll love how simple it is to create this dish in no time. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome!

1. Start by placing the chicken breast in the Instant Pot. Try to overlap the pieces as little as possible for even cooking. If you’re using fresh chicken, consider placing it on a trivet for better results, while for frozen chicken, you can place it directly into the pan.
2. Next, pour the chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice over the chicken. This mixture will keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor as it cooks.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the spices: chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and pepper. Generously cover all of the chicken with this spice mixture, making sure each piece is well seasoned.
4. Now, cover the Instant Pot with its lid, locking it in place. Make sure the vent is set to “Sealing” to create proper pressure.
5. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook.” For fresh chicken, set the timer for 8 to 10 minutes; for frozen chicken, aim for 10 to 12 minutes. If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may want to cook them for a little longer, up to 15 minutes.
6. Remember, it will take about 10 minutes for the pressure to build up. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release of the pressure by turning the vent to “Venting.”
7. Check the temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F. If it hasn’t, close the lid and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
8. Once the chicken is cooked perfectly, remove it from the Instant Pot and use two forks to shred it. This should be easy if it’s cooked thoroughly.
9. Place the shredded chicken back into the Instant Pot along with the juices and stir well to combine the flavors. This will keep the chicken moist until you’re ready to serve.
10. Finally, add the freshly chopped cilantro and mix. Keep the heat on warm until you’re ready to serve your delightful tacos.

Tips and Variations

To elevate your Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos experience, consider these helpful tips and variations:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve your tacos with a side of fresh guacamole, salsa, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Spicy Kick: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. For milder tacos, reduce the amount or leave it out entirely.
• Customizing Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like shredded cabbage, avocado slices, or sliced jalapeños to create your perfect taco.
• Using Different Proteins: While this recipe is for chicken, you can try it with turkey, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option.

What Complements This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

When serving Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos, there are various amazing sides and pairings to enhance your meal:

• Fresh Salads: A zesty corn and black bean salad pairs beautifully with the tacos, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Rice Dishes: Serve with cilantro lime rice or Mexican-style rice for a hearty accompaniment that balances the flavors.
• Salsa and Dips: Fresh or roasted salsa, along with guacamole, will elevate your taco night and provide flavorful dips.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled vegetables or a seasonal vegetable medley can add color and nutrition to your table.
• Taco Bar Setup: Create a taco bar with various toppings and sauces to let guests personalize their tacos, making the meal interactive.
• Casual Gatherings: These tacos are perfect for casual dinners, game days, or even a festive gathering like Taco Tuesday!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos are a fantastic dish that combines flavor, ease, and versatility in one meal. They’re ideal for weeknights or gatherings, and they’ll surely please everyone. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next taco night; you won’t regret it. It’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor!

Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

The ultimate comfort food on a busy weeknight! Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken and zesty spices, they’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy taco night like never before!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lb chicken breast
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 T orange juice
• 2 T lime juice
• 2 tsp chili powder
• ¾ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• ⅓ cup cilantro, freshly chopped
• taco fixings: tortillas, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, etc.

Instructions

 

• Start by placing the chicken breast in the Instant Pot. Try to overlap the pieces as little as possible for even cooking. If you’re using fresh chicken, consider placing it on a trivet for better results, while for frozen chicken, you can place it directly into the pan.
• Next, pour the chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice over the chicken. This mixture will keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor as it cooks.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the spices: chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and pepper. Generously cover all of the chicken with this spice mixture, making sure each piece is well seasoned.
• Now, cover the Instant Pot with its lid, locking it in place. Make sure the vent is set to “Sealing” to create proper pressure.
• Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook.” For fresh chicken, set the timer for 8 to 10 minutes; for frozen chicken, aim for 10 to 12 minutes. If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may want to cook them for a little longer, up to 15 minutes.
• Remember, it will take about 10 minutes for the pressure to build up. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release of the pressure by turning the vent to “Venting.”
• Check the temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F. If it hasn’t, close the lid and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
• Once the chicken is cooked perfectly, remove it from the Instant Pot and use two forks to shred it. This should be easy if it's cooked thoroughly.
• Place the shredded chicken back into the Instant Pot along with the juices and stir well to combine the flavors. This will keep the chicken moist until you’re ready to serve.
• Finally, add the freshly chopped cilantro and mix. Keep the heat on warm until you’re ready to serve your delightful tacos.

Notes

• Fresh Chicken Tip: Fresh chicken generally cooks better on a trivet in the Instant Pot, allowing it to cook evenly. However, frozen chicken can go straight into the pot without the trivet.
• Shredding Method: While you can use a hand mixer to shred the chicken quickly, I prefer the classic method using two forks. It gives me more control over the texture.
• Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add diced tomatoes or jalapeños to the pot for additional flavor. Just strain the juices from canned tomatoes before adding them in.
• Creamy Variation: For a richer taste, stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of cream cheese after shredding the chicken. This adds a delicious creaminess to the mixture.

Keyword Easy Chicken Tacos Recipe, Instant Pot Chicken Tacos, shredded chicken tacos, Taco Night Ideas

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.