Dinner

Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs; 2 Tbsp (32g) Olive Oil; 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar; 2 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Cumin; 1 tsp Kosher Salt; 1 tsp Dry Mustard; 1 tsp Chili Powder (optional); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper; 1/2 C (140g) BBQ Sauce of Your Choice

ByClara Bennett October 18, 2025October 18, 2025

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Introduction

This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned, cooked under pressure, and tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce for an effortless, delicious meal.

A close-up of shredded cooked chicken piled high in a white bowl with speckled black dots, showing a mix of golden brown and darker charred pieces, with visible juices giving a glossy look to the meat. The chicken pieces vary in size and texture with some smooth while others are stringy and fibrous, all looking tender and juicy. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
2 Tbsp (32g) Olive Oil
1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
2 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Cumin
1 tsp Kosher Salt
1 tsp Dry Mustard
1 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 C (140g) BBQ Sauce of Your Choice

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, dry mustard, chili powder (if using), and black pepper to make the BBQ seasoning blend.
Step 2: Coat the chicken thighs with olive oil in a large bowl, then sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
Step 3: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function on high. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes to brown slightly.
Step 4: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and stir gently to get some sauce to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Seal the Instant Pot lid and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Use quick release to release the pressure once cooking is complete.
Step 6: Transfer the chicken to a bowl and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir into the sauce.
Step 7 (Optional): For crispy edges, if using an Instant Pot Duo Crisp, use the broil function for 8-12 minutes, or place the shredded chicken on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until desired crispness is achieved.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner version, but reduce pressure cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to brighten the BBQ sauce flavor.
For a smoky kick, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover pulled BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl full of cooked shredded chicken pieces with a rich brown color and slightly charred edges. The chicken is layered unevenly with textures showing both moist and crispy parts, some pieces are larger while others are pulled into thin strands. The bowl's inner rim shows faint sauce stains, adding to the rustic, homemade feel. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just increase the pressure cooking time to 10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce you enjoy will work well, whether it’s sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Feel free to experiment with different brands or homemade sauces to suit your taste.