Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe | Easy, Healthy & Perfect for Meal Prep

I’ve discussed many pulled pork recipes before, and I hope you’ve heard of them, but today I’m going to discuss the Instant Pot Pulled Chicken recipe. This incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful shredded chicken is made effortlessly in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients you already have in your pantry. You can serve this recipe as a healthy meal prep solution for any quick weeknight dinner in your high-protein low-carb lifestyle.

Designed for busy professionals, families, and fitness enthusiasts alike, this pressure cooker chicken breast recipe is not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also extremely budget-friendly—a perfect choice for those looking to save money on groceries while still eating clean and delicious.

Use this juicy pulled chicken in everything from sandwiches, tacos, and salads, to grain bowls, wraps, and lettuce cups. And the best part? It freezes beautifully and reheats like a dream—making it ideal for batch cooking and freezer meals. Let’s dive into the easiest way to cook chicken that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours—only way faster!

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🍗 About This Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe

• ✅ Fast & Fuss-Free: This quick Instant Pot chicken recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights and last-minute dinners.
• ✅ High in Protein, Low in Carbs: Ideal for keto diets, weight loss meal prep, and low-carb lifestyles. A delicious way to hit your macros!
• ✅ Versatile & Family-Friendly: Whether you’re making pulled chicken tacos, BBQ sandwiches, salads, or bowls—this recipe fits every craving.
• ✅ Budget-Friendly Dinner Idea: Uses simple pantry staples, chicken breasts or thighs, and basic spices. A smart choice for frugal family meals under $3 per serving.
• ✅ Meal Prep Hero: Perfect for bulk cooking! Freeze portions and reheat for healthy lunches and dinners all week long.
• ✅ Juicy, Flavorful & Foolproof: The Instant Pot ensures consistently tender, restaurant-style shredded chicken without drying out.

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Suggested: Gluten-Free Desserts in 10 Minutes

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📋 Ingredients for Juicy Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

These healthy and budget-friendly ingredients make this quick shredded chicken recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, keto diets, gluten-free meal preps, and high-protein lunches. Choose high-quality, organic products whenever possible for the best flavor and health benefits.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – use organic chicken breast for better taste and health benefits.
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth – enhances moisture while keeping it heart-healthy.
• 1 small onion, chopped – adds aromatic flavor (optional)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika – gives that authentic BBQ-like smoky flavor
• 1 tsp garlic powder – a pantry must-have for bold flavor
• 1 tsp onion powder – complements the garlic and adds savory depth
• 1 tsp sea salt – use pink Himalayan salt for added minerals
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper – freshly ground for best taste
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and healthy fats
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – helps tenderize the chicken and boosts digestion
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce or taco seasoning – optional, depending on flavor choice

Choose low carb, sugar-free sauces and organic chicken products for a keto shredded chicken recipe that maximizes both nutrition and flavor.

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Related: Tomato Rice Soup Recipe

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🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare juicy, flavorful Instant Pot shredded chicken in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick high-protein dinner, this is the ultimate easy pulled chicken recipe you’ll love.

🔪 Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat dry 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts and season generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is key for a bold flavor base. For extra flavor, marinate 10–15 minutes before cooking.

🔥 Step 2: Sauté for Extra Flavor (Optional)

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté chopped onions or garlic for 2–3 minutes. This step builds a deep, savory flavor perfect for tacos or low carb chicken bowls.

💧 Step 3: Add Broth & Chicken

Add 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and place the seasoned chicken into the pot. Add 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to tenderize. Avoid stirring to prevent a burn notice.

⚡ Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to High Pressure for 10-12 minutes depending on chicken thickness. This fast cooking method makes it the perfect weeknight chicken dinner with minimal effort.

⏱️ Step 5: Natural Release

Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before turning the valve to quick release. This locks in moisture and prevents dryness, ideal for healthy pulled chicken meal prep.

🍗 Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Transfer chicken to a plate or bowl and use two forks to shred. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for fast, even shredding. Great for keto lunch boxes or protein-rich salads.

🥣 Step 7: Add Sauce (Optional)

Mix in your favorite sauce: BBQ, buffalo, or taco seasoning—whatever fits your dish. Stir the chicken back into the pot to absorb the remaining juices. Delicious in wraps, rice bowls, or Instant Pot chicken sandwiches.

💡 Pro Tip: Broil the shredded chicken for 4-5 minutes if you prefer crispy edges—perfect for tacos or bowls with texture!

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Related: Quick Pasta Dinner Ideas

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🍴 Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

This Instant Pot Pulled Chicken is the ultimate healthy meal prep chicken recipe you’ll make on repeat! Packed with lean protein and flavor, it pairs well with a wide variety of low-carb side dishes, high-protein lunch bowls, and easy dinner ideas. Here are some delicious and creative ways to enjoy it:

🥪 Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Pile it onto whole wheat buns with slaw for a high-protein sandwich recipe. Great for quick family dinners or picnic lunches.

🌮 Tacos or Lettuce Wraps

Use as a filling for low-carb tacos or lettuce wraps for a keto-friendly pulled chicken dinner. Add avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt.

🥗 Power Bowls & Meal Prep

Build your own meal prep bowls with quinoa, sweet potato, veggies, and pulled chicken. Perfect for healthy lunches for weight loss or gym meal prep.

🍕 Flatbreads or Quesadillas

Add to flatbreads or quesadillas with cheese and veggies. Great for high-protein dinner ideas or budget-friendly family meals.

🍚 Rice Bowls or Cauliflower Rice

Serve on brown rice or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free high-protein dinner. Drizzle with teriyaki, buffalo, or low sugar BBQ sauce.

🥒 Protein-Packed Salads

Top your favorite leafy greens with pulled chicken, nuts, and vinaigrette for a light, low calorie dinner idea that’s perfect for clean eating.

Mix things up with different sauces like sugar-free BBQ, buffalo, or honey mustard to keep your meals exciting and aligned with your weight loss or keto goals.

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Related: Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito Recipes

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🍗 Delicious Recipe Variations

🔥 BBQ Pulled Chicken (Crowd Favorite)

Add ½ cup of your favorite low sugar BBQ sauce after shredding. Perfect for sliders, sandwiches, or a high-RPM BBQ bowl!

🌶️ Buffalo Shredded Chicken

Mix in ⅓ cup of hot sauce and 1 tbsp butter or ghee for a spicy kick. Great for keto chicken wraps or a low-carb high-protein snack.

🌮 Taco Pulled Chicken

Stir in 2 tbsp taco seasoning and a squeeze of lime for a fiesta-ready filling. Use in tacos, burrito bowls, or enchiladas. A hit for family-friendly dinners.

🥢 Teriyaki or Asian-Style Chicken

Mix with ¼ cup of teriyaki sauce or soy-ginger glaze. Ideal for rice bowls and lettuce wraps. Great for monetizing easy Asian chicken dinners.

🍋 Mediterranean Pulled Chicken

Toss with olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, and garlic for a fresh twist. Serve in pita bread or over tabbouleh for a healthy Mediterranean diet recipe.

🍛 Indian Masala Pulled Chicken

Add curry powder, turmeric, and coconut milk for a warming curry flavor. Serve with rice or naan. High engagement for global chicken recipes.

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Suggested: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe

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Frequently Asked Questions about Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot pulled chicken?

Yes, Frozen chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly in the Instant Pot. Just increase the pressure cooking time to 15–17 minutes depending on thickness. No need to thaw—great for busy nights or last-minute healthy dinner recipes that save time and money.

What’s the best way to shred chicken easily and quickly?

For quick shredded chicken, use two forks, a hand mixer, or even a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. It’s the fastest way to prepare meal prep chicken recipes for sandwiches, wraps, tacos, and high protein low carb bowls.

Is this Instant Pot pulled chicken keto and low carb?

Yes! This is a keto-friendly pulled chicken recipe when made without sugary BBQ sauce. Stick to spices, broth, or a low-carb marinade for a delicious low-carb pressure cooker chicken recipe.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use for this recipe?

Both boneless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Chicken breasts are leaner and lower in fat, while thighs are juicier and more flavorful. For weight loss meal prep recipes, go with chicken breast.

Can I store and freeze Instant Pot shredded chicken?

Yes! Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for batch cooking and healthy weekly meal planning.

How can I use pulled chicken in other meals?

Serve it on whole grain buns, inside lettuce wraps, over quinoa bowls, in tacos, or on salads. It’s a versatile protein option for family dinner ideas and budget-friendly Instant Pot recipes.

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💰 Must-Have Tools for Making the Best Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

If you’re serious about meal prep, keto cooking, or just want your chicken juicy every single time — these high-quality kitchen essentials will make your life easier. We’ve curated the best tools trusted by food bloggers, chefs, and health-conscious cooks. Each product is handpicked to help you make perfect Instant Pot shredded chicken recipes and enhance your cooking experience.

Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart

Top-rated for quick, consistent cooking. Make juicy pulled chicken, soups, and more with 15 smart programs.

Buy Now on Amazon

Meat Claws Meat Shredder

Shred your chicken in seconds! A must-have for low carb meal prep and BBQ recipes.

Shop on Amazon

Glass Meal Prep Containers

Store pulled chicken for the week! Leak-proof, microwave safe, and BPA-free.

Grab Yours Here

Mustard BBQ Sauce | Carolina BBQ Sauce

Low sugar, gluten-free BBQ sauce perfect for pulled chicken with a smoky twist.

Try It Today

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