Description
This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare tender, flavorful shredded chicken using simple ingredients. Perfect as a versatile base for salads, sandwiches, tacos, or casseroles, this method ensures juicy and moist chicken in just under 40 minutes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Broth
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if desired)
- 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or good-quality)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 large celery stalk
- 1 large sprig parsley
- 2 bay leaves (dry)
- 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Add the chicken, chicken broth, celery, parsley, bay leaves, and kosher salt into the Instant Pot. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed in the pot.
- Cook under pressure: Close and seal the Instant Pot lid securely. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes to cook the chicken thoroughly while infusing flavors.
- Release pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 8 minutes to keep the chicken moist, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure safely.
- Remove chicken and strain broth: Open the lid carefully. Remove the cooked chicken breasts and discard the celery, parsley, and bay leaves. You may save the broth for soups or other dishes if desired.
- Shred the chicken: Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken finely. This creates a tender, pull-apart texture perfect for multiple recipes.
- Store or serve: Refrigerate the shredded chicken for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When serving, optionally add a small amount of reserved broth back into the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless skinless chicken thighs if preferred for richer flavor.
- Saving the broth is optional and can add extra moisture and flavor to the shredded chicken or be used in other recipes.
- Use freshly ground kosher salt and adjust to taste if needed.
- The natural release step helps the chicken retain juiciness and prevents it from becoming tough.
- Shredded chicken can be used in tacos, salads, sandwiches, soups, and casseroles.
