Easy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet and tangy taste of perfectly cooked BBQ chicken, and with this Instant Pot BBQ chicken recipe, you can enjoy fall-off-the-bone tender meat in a fraction of the time. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. The pressure cooking method ensures the chicken stays incredibly juicy while infusing it with rich barbecue flavors.

Why You'll Love This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe

This Instant Pot BBQ chicken has become a family favorite for good reason. The combination of pressure cooking and carefully selected seasonings creates chicken that's both incredibly tender and packed with flavor. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can serve it in countless ways – from classic sandwiches to rice bowls.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage and Reheating
• Recipe Variations
• Equipment For Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• Related
• Pairing
• Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

the Chicken:

• 4 pounds chicken pieces (thighs, breasts, or a mix)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

the Dry Rub:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients and mix well
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres better
3. Generously coat each piece of chicken with the dry rub mixture, massaging it into the meat

Setting Up the Instant Pot

1. Select 'Sauté' mode on your Instant Pot and add olive oil
2. Once hot, add chicken pieces in batches and brown for 2-3 minutes per side
3. Remove browned chicken and set aside
4. Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant

Pressure Cooking

1. Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze
2. Place the trivet inside the pot
3. Arrange chicken pieces on the trivet
4. Pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken
5. Close the lid and set valve to 'Sealing'
6. Cook on High Pressure for:
   • Chicken breasts: 8-10 minutes
   • Chicken thighs: 10-12 minutes
7. Allow for 5 minutes natural release, then carefully quick release remaining pressure

Finishing Touches

1. Remove chicken to a foil-lined baking sheet
2. Brush with remaining BBQ sauce
3. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for caramelized finish
4. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving

Serving Suggestions

This versatile BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Classic coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Mac and cheese
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh garden salad

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, covered with a damp paper towel
• Oven: Wrap in foil and heat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers

Recipe Variations

Spicy BBQ Chicken

Add cayenne pepper to the dry rub and use spicy BBQ sauce for extra heat

Asian-Inspired BBQ

Swap traditional BBQ sauce for a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and honey

Honey Garlic BBQ

Mix honey and minced garlic into your BBQ sauce for a sweeter profile

Equipment For Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe

• 6-quart Instant Pot or larger
• Tongs for handling chicken
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for mixing dry rub
• Basting brush for BBQ sauce

FAQ

This Instant Pot BBQ chicken recipe proves that you don't need a grill or hours of cooking time to enjoy delicious, tender BBQ chicken. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you'll have a meal that tastes like it's been slow-cooked all day.

Give it a try and watch it become your family's new favorite dinner request!

If you loved the Easy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe, you'll definitely want to try this Instant Pot Chicken Tenders Recipe for a quick, flavorful meal!

Related

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe