Learn how to make juicy, tender Instant Pot shredded chicken that’s bursting with flavor! Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this easy recipe delivers perfectly cooked, versatile shredded chicken that’s perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more. Ready in minutes, it’s a go-to meal prep staple for busy days.
Did you ever happen to find some interesting recipe that calls for shredded chicken but not have it in the house? Well, it happened to me, and that got me here trying to make shredded chicken at home, and it turned out extremely delicious.
This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken saves me so much time during the week, knowing I have it ready for use in various lunch and dinner recipes.
It’s perfect for preparing meals since it’s a weekly staple in my house. So you can use it to make cordon bleu casserole, sandwiches, salads, and many other interesting recipes!
- 1 Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe
- 2 What Is Shredded Chicken?
- 3 What Chicken to Use for Shredded Chicken
- 4 Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Ingredients
- 5 How To Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
- 6 Tips For Making The Best Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
- 7 How To Use Shredded Chicken
- 8 Storing Ideas
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10 More Chicken Recipes
- 11 Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe
- Super easy to make with minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep — make it ahead of time and have shredded chicken ready whenever you need it.
- Incredibly versatile — use it in a wide range of recipes like casseroles, salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more.
- Ready in just 15 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
- Made with simple, wholesome, and naturally low-carb ingredients, keeping it keto- and paleo-friendly.
- Packed with flavor even though it uses only a few basic seasonings.
- Tender, juicy, and perfectly shredded every time — no dry chicken here!
- Great for busy lifestyles or anyone who wants a quick, healthy protein option on hand.
What Is Shredded Chicken?
Shredded chicken (also called pulled chicken) is a quick, versatile, and delicious way to prepare chicken breast that everyone should know how to make. It can be used in a variety of recipes — from casseroles, soups, and salads to wraps and pizzas — yet many people find it tricky to make just right.
Thanks to the Instant Pot, cooking shredded chicken becomes easy, fast, and consistent, producing tender, juicy, and perfectly shredded meat every time.
This recipe is ideal for meal prep, as the shredded chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or used immediately in your favorite dishes.
What Chicken to Use for Shredded Chicken
When choosing chicken for shredded chicken, you can use any type of boneless, skinless chicken. The most commonly used cuts are chicken breasts and thighs, as they are lean and easy to shred.
To save time, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or leftover cooked chicken. These options are already cooked, so you just need to shred them and add seasoning, making them perfect for quick and easy meals.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Ingredients
You will need only 5 ingredients you probably already have in your pantry to make this flavorful shredded chicken. Here is the list:
- Chicken Breast – For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Chicken Broth – You can also use vegetable broth as a substitute.
- Seasonings – I used a basic blend: garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to add flavor and complexity.
- Salt and Pepper – Be mindful of the salt quantity since the chicken broth can be quite salty.
How To Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
You will be surprised to see how easy it is to prepare this shredded chicken. Follow the next steps and enjoy one of the juiciest shredded chicken recipes.
Seasoning the Chicken Breast
Start seasoning the chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to add more flavor to the chicken.
Cooking The Chicken
Pour chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot, and place the chicken in the Instant Pot. Be sure to arrange the chicken in a single layer, with as little overlap as possible, to ensure even cooking.
Close the lid and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” setting from the menu. Set the time for cooking for ten minutes.
The Instant Pot will take several minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then turn the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the pressure cooker from the instant pot and shred the chicken into small pieces with two forks.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Shredding The Chicken – 3 Ways
- Using a fork:
- Place the cooked chicken on a cutting board or plate.
- Hold the chicken in place with a fork in one hand.
- Use another fork to gently pull the chicken apart, shredding it into small pieces.
- Continue shredding the chicken until it is all pulled apart to your desired consistency.
- Using a stand mixer:
- Place the cooked chicken in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Turn the mixer on low speed and let it run for 30-60 seconds, until the chicken is shredded to your desired consistency.
- Be careful not to overmix the chicken, as it can become too fine and lose its texture.
- Using a knife: Cut your chicken into bite-size pieces with a knife. It will work as well in any recipe you want to make.
Tips For Making The Best Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
- Use enough liquid: Ensure there’s enough liquid in the Instant Pot to prevent the chicken from drying out. A good rule of thumb is 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid per pound of chicken.
- Add more flavor: Enhance your chicken by adding fresh minced garlic, diced onion, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or cumin. For extra depth, try using different liquids such as salsa, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, or even beer.
- Drain or store with broth: If serving immediately, drain the chicken to avoid it becoming soggy. If storing for later, keep the shredded chicken in the broth to retain moisture and flavor.
- Shred while warm: Shred the chicken while it’s still warm — it’s easier and results in fluffier meat.
- Save the broth: Don’t throw away the leftover broth; it’s packed with flavor and perfect for soups, stews, or cooking grains.
- Use a hand mixer or forks: For quick shredding, use two forks or an electric hand mixer to get perfectly shredded chicken in minutes.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough, so stick to the recommended cooking times.
- Rest before shredding: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices for juicier results.
How To Use Shredded Chicken
I love cooking chicken breast this way since it can be used for many recipes. Here are some great ideas:
- Tacos: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for tacos, along with toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, avocado, and salsa.
- Sandwiches: Pile the shredded chicken onto a roll of bread, along with your favorite sandwich fixings like lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- Salads: Add the shredded chicken to a salad for a protein boost, along with your favorite vegetables and dressing.
- Soups and stews: Use the shredded chicken in soups and stews for a hearty and flavorful addition.
- Pasta dishes: Toss the shredded chicken with cooked pasta and your favorite sauce for a quick and easy dinner.
- Casseroles: Use the shredded chicken as a base for casseroles, along with vegetables, cheese, and other ingredients.
- Wraps: Roll the shredded chicken in a tortilla, lettuce, or wrap, along with your favorite veggies and condiments.
Storing Ideas
- Fridge – You can store the shredded chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer – You can also store the leftovers in the freezer once they are completely cool. Put them in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to two months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe With Frozen Chicken?
Sure, you can also use frozen chicken for this recipe, but you will need to know that you will have to cook it for a longer time (15 minutes are enough).
Can I Make This Recipe With Chicken Thighs?
Sure, you can make this recipe with any piece of meat you like. But, you have to know that the time of cooking will change.
Can I Make Shredded Chicken Recipe In a Crock-Pot?
Sure, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the crock pot, then pour the chicken broth and cook on low for six hours or high for 3-4. Then, take out and shred while it’s warm.
Can I Make Shredded Chicken On Stovetop?
Place the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat, then pour in one to two cups of chicken broth (enough to cover the chicken) and bring to a boil.
Once it starts to boil, reduce to low heat and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, then shred your chicken.
More Chicken Recipes
- Juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
- One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken
- Cajun Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Description
Ingredients
- 4 lb Chicken breast
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
Instructions
- Season the chicken breast with garlic powder, paparka, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken into the instant pot (without trivet), then pour the chicken broth around the sides of the chicken.
- Close the lid and select the "Manual" or Pressure Cookie setting from the menu and set the time to 10-12 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken.
- Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Unplug the pressure cooker, drain half of the chicken broth and use two forks to shred the chicken.
- Transfer the shredded chicken to an airtight container and store it in the fridge until ready to use it.
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.