If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to satisfy your craving for comfort food, you’ll love this instant pot BBQ Chicken Recipe. Ready in less than an hour, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The rich, smoky flavors of BBQ sauce infused into tender chicken make it a favorite for all ages.
My grandmother was the queen of BBQ dishes, and her recipes were the highlight of our family gatherings. While her traditional method involved hours of slow cooking, my modern take using the Instant Pot captures the same flavors but with a fraction of the effort and time. It reminds me of those cozy Sundays at her table, filled with laughter and endless servings of her delectable BBQ chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for BBQ lovers. First, it’s incredibly fast without compromising flavor, thanks to the versatile Instant Pot. You get that slow-cooked taste in a flash. Second, it’s customizable. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a sweeter touch, you can adjust the BBQ sauce to your liking. Lastly, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, your favorite BBQ sauce, onions, garlic, and a splash of APPLE CIDER vinegar for that tangy kick. I recommend buying organic chicken for superior taste and health benefits. If you prefer less sweetness, opt for a low-sugar BBQ sauce or prepare one at home. For an extra depth of flavor, a sprinkle of smoked paprika does wonders.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2
Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Step 3
Add the chicken back into the pot along with the BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with sauce.
Step 4
Seal the instant pot and set it to manual pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 5
Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. Serve with extra sauce from the pot and pair with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag, and it’ll keep for 3 months. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and warm up in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy twist, add a tablespoon of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the BBQ sauce. If you’re catering to dietary preferences, substitute chicken with jackfruit for a vegan version. To impart a multi-dimensional flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke to the mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Simply increase the cooking time to 25 minutes on high pressure. Ensure that the chicken pieces are separated and not clumped together for even cooking.
What type of BBQ sauce works best? The choice of BBQ sauce depends on your taste preference. For a classic BBQ flavor, go with a hickory-smoked variety. For something on the sweeter side, a honey BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the chicken’s savory elements.
How can I make this dish less sweet? To reduce the sweetness, consider using a BBQ sauce with no added sugars or make your own using tomato paste, a touch of vinegar, and spices. Adding ingredients like mustard or Worcestershire sauce can further balance the flavor profile.
