There’s something magical about the aroma of BBQ wafting through the air, isn’t there? Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, fluffy bun filled with tender, juicy Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken. It’s a flavor explosion that dances on your palate, sending you straight to flavor town. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds do a happy dance!
Now, let me take you back to a summer picnic where I first experienced the joy of pulled chicken sandwiches. The sun was shining, and laughter filled the air as friends gathered around a grill. Suddenly, someone brought out a heaping platter of these divine sandwiches. One bite, and I knew I had to recreate this experience in my kitchen—minus the sunburn.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of tangy and sweet BBQ sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
- Visually appealing with its glossy sauce and fluffy buns, it’s sure to impress guests at any barbecue.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with various sides or enjoyed on its own!
Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; they will cook down nicely in the Instant Pot.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for an extra personal touch.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish—slice it up finely.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves will give you that aromatic base that’s hard to resist.
- Chicken Broth: It helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Buns: Choose soft sandwich buns or even slider buns if you’re feeling fancy!
For Extra Toppings:
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw on top adds texture and freshness—perfect contrast for your BBQ!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
comforting white chicken chili.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by turning your Instant Pot onto sauté mode. Drizzle a bit of olive oil in there and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then toss in minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant—trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Step 2: Add Chicken
Next up, season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them right into that flavorful onion-garlic mixture. Pour in about one cup of chicken broth—this liquid magic will make sure your chicken stays juicy as it cooks.
Step 3: Mix in BBQ Sauce
Now it’s time for some fun! Add your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken—don’t be shy; slather it on generously! Stir everything together so each piece of chicken gets coated in that beautiful sauce.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select high pressure for 10 minutes. Let it do its thing while you daydream about how amazing dinner will be!
Step 5: Release Pressure
Once those ten minutes are up (and you’ve probably drooled a little), carefully perform a quick release of pressure. Open that lid like a present on Christmas morning! Shred the chicken directly inside the pot using two forks; it should fall apart effortlessly.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Grab those buns you have waiting nearby. Pile high some of that luscious pulled chicken onto each bun and top with crunchy coleslaw if you’re feeling adventurous!
Transfer to plates and enjoy every single bite of these mouthwatering Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches! They’re perfect for game day, cozy family dinners, or even when you’re binge-watching your favorite show.
And there you have it! You’ve just unlocked a treasure trove of flavor without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Now go ahead—it’s time to dig into your creation!
You Must Know
- Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are not just a meal; they are an experience!
- The ease of preparation, paired with the explosion of flavors, makes this dish perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
- You can dress it up or keep it simple—the options are endless!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your chicken, then sear it in the Instant Pot for that rich flavor. While it cooks, whip up a quick coleslaw for crunch and freshness. Finally, let everything mingle in the pot to create BBQ heaven. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the classic BBQ sauce for something spicy or fruity. Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist or a dash of smoked paprika for some extra depth. Remember, creativity is key!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, use low heat on the stovetop or microwave to keep that juicy goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly shredded chicken, let it rest before pulling apart; it’s easier that way!
- Always taste your sauce before serving—it might need a little extra kick.
- Don’t forget to toast your buns for that added crunch and flavor boost!
When I first made these Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, my friends devoured them like they hadn’t eaten in days—pure joy on their faces! It felt amazing to share such deliciousness with loved ones.
FAQs :
What is the best way to serve Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches?
You can serve Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches on soft hamburger buns or slider rolls. Add toppings like coleslaw, sliced pickles, or jalapeños for extra flavor and crunch. Pair these sandwiches with sides such as potato chips, baked beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also offer various barbecue sauces on the side for guests to customize their sandwiches. For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken recipe.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Cooking Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken takes about 15 minutes of pressure cooking time. However, you should also account for the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure and then release steam afterward. Overall, expect around 30-40 minutes from start to finish, which is significantly quicker than traditional slow-cooking methods.
Can I make Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the pulled chicken for up to three months. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What are some variations for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken?
You can experiment with different flavors by using various barbecue sauces, spices, or even adding ingredients like pineapple or chipotle peppers for a unique twist. For a healthier option, replace some of the barbecue sauce with low-sugar alternatives or homemade versions. You can also use turkey or pork instead of chicken to switch things up.
Conclusion for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches :
Instant Pot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches offer a quick and delicious meal option perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy tender and flavorful pulled chicken in no time. By customizing your toppings and serving options, you can create a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit!
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together in no time. Tender, juicy chicken simmers in tangy-sweet BBQ sauce, perfectly nestled in soft buns. Ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these sandwiches can be topped with crunchy coleslaw for an extra burst of flavor. With minimal prep and maximum taste, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 soft sandwich buns
- 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the onion in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s sauté mode for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; add to the pot along with chicken broth.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Perform a quick release of pressure; shred chicken with two forks in the pot.
- Assemble sandwiches by piling pulled chicken onto buns and topping with coleslaw.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider searing the chicken before adding other ingredients. You can customize your BBQ sauce by mixing in spices or swapping it for a fruity version like peach or pineapple barbecue sauce.




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