If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that is quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brings together juicy, tender chicken soaked in a smoky and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot. The combination of spices and the convenience of one-pot cooking means you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time, perfect for busy days or casual get-togethers with friends. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the rich, layered flavor and juicy texture of these sandwiches. From the aromatic spices to the smoky BBQ sauce, you’ll find that simple pantry staples come together beautifully to create something extraordinary.
- 4 chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for shredding and soaking up flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with subtle savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth to the seasoning mix.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory punch without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile with mild sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Provides a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon (packed) brown sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of caramel sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami boost, making the flavors richer.
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional): Elevates the BBQ essence with a natural smoky flavor.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (or to taste): Coats the shredded chicken with tangy, sweet, and smoky goodness.
- Buns: Soft, sturdy buns hold all that delicious pulled chicken perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy topping that adds freshness and texture (click for my favorite recipe).
How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Broth Mixture
Start by whisking together the chicken broth, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke right in a bowl. This spice-packed liquid will be the magic that infuses every bite of your chicken with incredible flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Pour the Broth Mixture
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your Instant Pot, spreading them out so they cook evenly. Then pour the broth mixture you just made over the top, making sure every piece gets coated in those beautiful spices.
Step 3: Cook Under Pressure
Seal the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. It’ll take about 10 minutes for the pot to build pressure, so this is a great time to prep your buns or coleslaw.
Step 4: Release the Pressure
Once the timer goes off, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes before switching the valve for a quick release to let out any remaining steam. This step helps keep your chicken juicy and tender.
Step 5: Shred and Toss with BBQ Sauce
Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks in a large bowl. For extra flavor, stir in a couple of spoonfuls of the cooking liquid. Finally, add your BBQ sauce and toss everything until the chicken is fully coated in that irresistible tangy glaze.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwiches
To serve, pile the shredded BBQ chicken onto your buns. The combination of tender meat, soft bread, and crunchy coleslaw makes every bite a delight.
How to Serve Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your BBQ chicken sandwiches from tasty to unforgettable. Fresh coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast and adds brightness to balance the richness of the BBQ sauce. Pickles or thinly sliced red onions are also fantastic if you enjoy a bit of zing and extra crunch.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classic sides like baked beans, crispy sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad. The variety of textures and flavors on the side will round out your meal perfectly and make it feel like a well-thought-out feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pulled chicken on slider buns for a party platter, or use the filling as a topping over baked potatoes or even stuffed inside bell peppers. You could also layer the chicken in a wrap with some fresh veggies for a quick lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes for quick lunches or snacks during the week that require minimal effort and still taste fantastic.
Freezing
This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is freezer-friendly! Simply portion the shredded chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pulled chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Re-toss with BBQ sauce after reheating to refresh the flavors and serve on buns just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and flavorful when cooked under pressure. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but generally, 10 minutes works well for boneless thighs.
Is liquid smoke necessary for this recipe?
Liquid smoke is optional but highly recommended if you want to boost the authentic smoky BBQ flavor without firing up a grill. If you don’t have it, the smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce still deliver plenty of taste.
How spicy is this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe?
The recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder. If you prefer it spicier, you can easily add more chili powder or complement it with a dash of hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop by simmering it gently with the broth and spices until tender, then shredding it and mixing with BBQ sauce. It just won’t be as quick as the pressure cooker method.
What kind of BBQ sauce do you recommend?
Go for a BBQ sauce you love! Whether sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy, the sauce you choose will define the final flavor, so pick something that suits your taste preferences perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is such a crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself making it over and over again. It’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof, bringing the joy of BBQ into your kitchen without any hassle. So why wait? Dive in, get cooking, and enjoy that perfect combo of tender chicken and tangy sauce in every bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 sandwiches
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, shredded chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches. Infused with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a blend of spices, the chicken is cooked under high pressure in the Instant Pot, ensuring juicy results in just minutes. Serve it piled high on buns with coleslaw for a classic BBQ meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth Mixture
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional but tasty)
Sauce and Serving
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (or to taste)
- Buns, for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping; recipe referenced)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke until well combined.
- Add chicken to Instant Pot: Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the prepared broth mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cook under pressure: Close the Instant Pot lid securely, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Note that it will take approximately 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure.
- Release pressure: When the cooking time ends, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
- Shred chicken and toss with sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl and shred it using two forks. Optionally, add a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot to keep the chicken moist. Pour in the BBQ sauce and toss until the shredded chicken is evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve the pulled BBQ chicken on buns, topped with coleslaw if desired, for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Liquid smoke is optional but adds a smoky depth to the chicken.
- Use fresh buns or toast them lightly for better texture.
- Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and contrast but can be omitted or substituted with your favorite slaw.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust BBQ sauce quantity according to your taste preference.
