What To Know
- Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and pour in the chicken broth or water.
- For a richer flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the Instant Pot.
- Whether you’re creating tacos for a family dinner or preparing a savory casserole for a special occasion, this easy-to-follow guide will help you achieve perfect shredded chicken every time.
Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills and create mouthwatering shredded chicken with minimal effort? Look no further than the Instant Pot, your kitchen’s secret weapon for easy and delicious meals. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll embark on a step-by-step journey to show you how to make instant pot shredded chicken that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Instant Pot
- Fork or shredding claws
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken breasts or thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the chicken liberally with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot
Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and pour in the chicken broth or water. Ensure the liquid covers the chicken but doesn’t exceed the fill line.
Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 12 minutes for chicken thighs.
Step 4: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to continue cooking and tenderize.
Step 5: Quick Release
After the natural release, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
Use two forks or shredding claws to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess liquid.
Season to Taste
Taste the shredded chicken and adjust the seasoning as desired. You can add additional salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices.
Serving Suggestions:
Your instant pot shredded chicken is now ready to be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Tacos
- Burritos
- Enchiladas
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Soups
- Casseroles
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the Instant Pot.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Cooking it for too long will make it dry and tough.
- Use a variety of seasonings to customize the flavor of your shredded chicken.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water and add a chicken bouillon cube.
“Wrap-Up”: A Satisfying Culinary Journey
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making instant pot shredded chicken. This versatile and delicious dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re creating tacos for a family dinner or preparing a savory casserole for a special occasion, this easy-to-follow guide will help you achieve perfect shredded chicken every time.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, increase the cooking time by 5 minutes.
Q: How long can I store shredded chicken in the refrigerator?
A: Shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I shred the chicken before cooking it in the Instant Pot?
A: No, it’s not recommended to shred the chicken before cooking it. This can make the chicken tough and dry.
