Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that can be prepared in a flash, this Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe is perfect for you. Infused with zesty taco seasoning, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant green chiles, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you use it for tacos, burritos, or salads, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This Instant Pot shredded chicken is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1
Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Once hot, add the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3
Press the Cancel button to turn off the Sauté function.
Step 4
Add the taco seasoning, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and diced green chiles to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 5
Place the chicken breasts into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 6
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the Sealing position.
Step 7
Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure.
Step 8
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 9
Carefully remove the lid and transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board.
Step 10
Shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 11
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce.
Step 12
Serve the shredded chicken with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
Note 1
Make sure the chicken breasts are fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Note 2
Adjust the taco seasoning based on your spice preference.
Note 3
You can use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken for a quicker option; simply skip the pressure cooking.
Note 4
Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or shredded cheese when serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, diced onions are sautéed in olive oil until translucent, enhancing their flavor and aroma.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking involves cooking food under high pressure, which reduces cooking time significantly while retaining moisture and flavor. Here, the chicken breasts are cooked in the Instant Pot, allowing them to become tender and juicy in just 15 minutes.
Natural Pressure Release
After cooking, allowing the pressure to release naturally helps the meat to remain moist and tender. In this technique, you wait for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Shredding
Shredding involves pulling apart cooked meat into smaller pieces. In this recipe, the cooked chicken breasts are shredded using two forks, providing a texture ideal for tacos or salads.
Combining Flavors
Returning the shredded chicken to the pot and stirring it with the sauce combines the flavors, ensuring every bite is infused with the spices and juices from the cooking process.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as it typically requires longer to cook.
What can I serve with this shredded chicken?
This shredded chicken can be served in tacos, burritos, over rice, or in a salad. It’s also great for meal prep.
How can I adjust the spice level?
You can adjust the spice level by using a mild or hot taco seasoning or adding additional ingredients like jalapeños or hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe in advance and store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can also make this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a pot for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that can easily be incorporated into various meals. The combination of taco seasoning, tomatoes, and green chiles infuses the chicken with a vibrant flavor profile, making it a perfect base for tacos, burritos, or salads. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste it brings to your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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