Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
This is the easiest way to make juicy shredded chicken from frozen chicken breast in the Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker. Using only 2 ingredients this simple method will become your go to way to cook frozen chicken.
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I used to dread making recipes that called for shredded or diced chicken because of the work I’d have to do to actually prep the ingredient. I’m a fan of all in one meals (like my chicken taco wontons) so the easier the recipe the better for me. After a few trials and errors I figured out how to make the perfect chicken in the Instant Pot! Once I started making it in the Instant Pot I never went back.
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How to use the chicken
I usually shred Instant Pot chicken for use in my meal prep but you can also dice up the chicken. Or you could use the chicken as a main dish and serve with a healthy side like a salad.
Benefits of Making Chicken in an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is one of my preferred methods to cook because it’s a quick “set it and forget it” tool. When I’m in a rush and forget to defrost something or lose track of time the Instant Pot makes it easy to be able to go from frozen to cooked in minutes. I find that the chicken I cook in the Instant Pot is more juicy, flavorful and shreds more nicely than the chicken I cook in the oven.
Seasonings for Shredded Chicken
I usually use salt and pepper for this recipe but you can adapt the recipe to your tastes! Some seasoning ideas:
- Taco seasoning
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Chicken seasoning
- Garlic salt
- Salsa (like in my Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls)
How to Shred Chicken Breast
There are a few ways to shred chicken breast. One way is to take 2 forks and pull the chicken apart. Another tool I like to use are these meat claws.
How to store Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
If you’re not going to be using the cooked chicken same day, I recommend storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to freeze chicken
To freeze, put the chicken in a freezer bag (I like these bags) and seal, making sure all the air is removed. I typically like to put in 1-1/2 cup at a time because that’s usually how much I need in recipes so it’s easy to just grab a package and defrost.
To defrost, take out of the freezer and put the container in a bowl of cold water for about 2 hours or until defrosted.
How to make shredded (or diced) Chicken in a slow cooker
This recipe can also be adapted to be used in the slow cooker! The results will be similar but the slow cooker will take longer to cook. If using a slow cooker, cook the chicken on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
Tools Needed to make Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
Instant Pot or Slow Cooker/Crock Pot
Uses for Shredded or Diced Chicken
Some of my favorite recipes using shredded or diced chicken:
- White Chicken Enchilada Pasta
- Buffalo Chicken Bake
- Paleo Crispy Thai Chicken Salad
- Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
- One Pot Chicken Feta Alfredo
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Ingredients
Base Recipe
- 1 lb frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup reduced sodium chicken broth or water
Optional Seasoning Blend
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Place frozen chicken breast inside the inner pot of the Instant Pot
- Sprinkle desired seasonings on top
- Pour chicken broth or water over the chicken.
- Seal Instant Pot and set to manual pressure for 15 minutes.
- Once complete, allow the Instant Pot to natural release for 10 minutes.
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