Ultimate Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Quick, Flavorful, and Effortlessly Delicious
A perfectly crafted BBQ chicken sandwich is a culinary delight, bursting with savory and smoky flavors. This recipe delivers an incredibly tender, saucy shredded chicken that comes together with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of your pressure cooker. Get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for any day of the week, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd!
Why This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe Works Wonders
There’s a reason this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe quickly becomes a family favorite. It all starts with our incredibly easy Instant Pot BBQ chicken method, which guarantees perfectly cooked, flavorful meat every single time. Imagine smoky, tangy, and irresistibly tender shredded chicken piled high on a soft bun, optionally enhanced with creamy coleslaw and crisp lettuce for that essential crunch. What could be better?
The Instant Pot truly transforms this classic dish into a weeknight hero. Traditional BBQ chicken can take hours to slow cook or braise, but with the pressure cooker, you achieve that deep, slow-cooked flavor and fall-apart tender texture in a fraction of the time. This makes it an ideal solution for busy evenings, large gatherings, or efficient meal preparation throughout the week. You can cook a large batch, and have delicious, versatile BBQ chicken ready for sandwiches, salads, wraps, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Let’s dive into how this simple yet spectacular recipe brings big flavors with minimal fuss.
Key Ingredients for Your Delicious BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Crafting the perfect BBQ chicken sandwich requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients. While the full measurements and detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, let’s explore the essential components that make this dish truly special.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing your options for substitutions can help you customize this recipe to your liking and make it work with what you have on hand.
- Chicken: For this recipe, we utilize a combination of both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs. This blend is truly the secret to a perfectly balanced BBQ chicken. The chicken breast offers lean protein, while the chicken thighs contribute incredible moisture and a richer, more robust flavor due to their higher fat content. This ensures your shredded chicken is never dry and always packed with taste. If you prefer, you can certainly use all chicken breast for a leaner option, or all chicken thighs for an even juicier, more indulgent result. Just be mindful that using only breasts might require a slightly shorter cooking time or more reserved liquid to maintain moisture.
- BBQ Sauce: While we have a strong preference for our homemade Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce, which adds a unique sweet and tangy kick, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to use your favorite bottled barbecue sauce! Whether you prefer a smoky hickory, a tangy Carolina, a sweet Kansas City style, or a spicy chipotle, the choice is yours. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find what best suits your palate. This is a great opportunity to explore various BBQ traditions right in your kitchen.
- Onion: Finely minced onion forms the aromatic base of our BBQ chicken, infusing it with a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks under pressure. Any yellow or white onion will work beautifully here.
- Chicken Stock: This liquid is crucial for building pressure in the Instant Pot and for keeping the chicken moist. It also adds an extra layer of savory flavor. You can use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These pantry staples amplify the savory notes and complement the fresh onion and BBQ sauce. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your taste. A pinch of paprika or a dash of chili powder could also be added for extra warmth.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a fantastic umami depth, enriching the overall flavor profile of the chicken. Don’t skip this, as it truly makes a difference.
- Liquid Smoke: For that authentic smoky BBQ flavor without firing up a smoker, liquid smoke is a game-changer. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly to achieve the desired smoky essence.
- Brown Sugar: This provides a touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the BBQ sauce and helps create that signature sticky glaze. Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
- Sandwich Buns: Soft, fresh buns are essential for a good sandwich. Potato rolls, brioche buns, or classic hamburger buns all work wonderfully. You can even lightly toast them for added texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Optional Toppings (Coleslaw, Lettuce): These additions are highly recommended! Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor, while crisp lettuce provides a vibrant crunch and acts as a barrier against a soggy bun. Other popular toppings include dill pickles, pickled red onions, or even a slice of your favorite cheese.
Effortless Steps to Craft Your BBQ Chicken Sandwich
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through making this incredible recipe. For the printable version, complete with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Onion: Begin by coarsely chopping one medium onion. Transfer these pieces into a mini chopper or a food processor. Pulse until the onion is finely minced. This fine mince ensures the onion flavor is evenly distributed throughout the chicken without large, overpowering chunks. Set the minced onion aside for now.
- Load the Instant Pot: To your Instant Pot insert, add 2 cups of chicken stock. Carefully place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound) and chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds) into the stock. Ensure the chicken pieces are mostly submerged, as this liquid is vital for pressure building and cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Evenly sprinkle the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. These dry spices will infuse flavor directly into the meat. Next, drizzle ½ Tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke over the chicken. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while the liquid smoke imparts that essential BBQ aroma and taste.
- Add Remaining Flavors: Now, spread the finely minced onion on top of the seasoned chicken. This allows the onion to steam and soften, releasing its flavors into the cooking liquid. Sprinkle 2 ½ teaspoons of brown sugar over everything. Finally, generously spoon 1 cup of your chosen barbecue sauce over the top, covering the chicken and other ingredients. Do not stir; the pressure cooking process will distribute the flavors beautifully.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the vent is turned to the sealed (closed) position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 20 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release (NPR). This means you let the Instant Pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes after it finishes cooking, allowing the pressure to decrease gradually. After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to quick release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the hot steam.
- Shred and Adjust Consistency: Once the pressure is fully released and it’s safe to open the lid, carefully remove it. You’ll see beautifully cooked chicken submerged in a flavorful sauce. Using a large spoon or ladle, carefully spoon off most of the cooking liquid from the pot, but be sure to reserve it in a separate bowl. This reserved liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting moisture. Now, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the Instant Pot. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easily pull apart. If the shredded chicken appears too dry for your liking, gradually add some of the reserved liquid back in, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
CHEF’S TIP: Preventing Soggy Buns: The shredded chicken mixture, especially if it retains too much liquid, can quickly make your sandwich buns soggy. To prevent this, ensure you drain the chicken thoroughly before serving. Alternatively, and highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor and texture, line each bottom bun with a crisp piece of lettuce before adding the chicken. This creates a barrier that keeps your bun fresh and intact.
- Assemble Your Sandwiches: Scoop approximately ½ cup of the flavorful shredded BBQ chicken onto each sandwich bun. This amount creates a generous and satisfying sandwich. For an ultimate BBQ experience, top with a spoonful of creamy coleslaw if desired. The cool, crisp coleslaw provides a wonderful textural and flavor contrast to the warm, tangy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious leftovers. Transfer any leftover shredded BBQ chicken into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping and quick lunches throughout the week.
Absolutely! Shredded BBQ chicken freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for future meals. Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it into a gallon-sized freezer-safe ziptop bag, pressing out as much air as possible, or an airtight freezer container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without loss of quality. To use, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Soft, sturdy buns are ideal to hold the juicy shredded chicken. Potato rolls, brioche buns, or classic hamburger buns are excellent choices. You can also toast your buns lightly in a skillet with butter or in a toaster oven for extra flavor and to prevent them from becoming soggy too quickly.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you have several options! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Instant Pot along with the other spices. Alternatively, stir in a teaspoon or two of your favorite hot sauce into the shredded chicken mixture at the end, or offer it as a topping for those who prefer extra spice.
While this recipe is optimized for the Instant Pot for speed, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for combining ingredients in the slow cooker pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is easily shredded with two forks. The key is to ensure the chicken is fork-tender before shredding.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
The beauty of a BBQ chicken sandwich lies not just in the flavorful filling, but also in the fantastic ways you can serve and customize it. Our top recommendations for toppings are crisp lettuce and creamy coleslaw. We find that layering the bottom bun with a fresh piece of lettuce before adding the shredded chicken is a simple yet effective trick to prevent the bun from getting soggy from the juicy chicken. Topping the chicken with a generous scoop of homemade or store-bought coleslaw adds a refreshing coolness, a delightful crunch, and a tangy contrast that perfectly complements the smoky, savory chicken. For an extra touch of deliciousness, consider toasting your sandwich buns. A quick buttering and toasting in a hot skillet or a few minutes in the toaster oven will give them a wonderfully crisp exterior and a warm, inviting aroma.
Beyond the sandwich itself, pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the entire meal. Classic companions include crispy potato chips, golden french fries, savory baked beans (especially our homemade recipe!), or crunchy tater tots. For a lighter touch, a fresh garden salad or a vibrant corn on the cob would be fantastic. Don’t forget the pickles – dill pickle slices add a briny tang that cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce beautifully. For larger gatherings, consider turning these into BBQ chicken sliders using smaller buns, making them perfect for appetizers or party food. Enjoy creating your perfect BBQ chicken sandwich experience!
More Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of delicious chicken recipes, especially those with a BBQ twist, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and expand your cooking repertoire:
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Perfect for parties or a fun mini-meal, these sliders pack all the great flavor into a smaller package.
- Easy BBQ Crockpot Chicken: If you prefer the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe delivers tender BBQ chicken with minimal effort.
- BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Skillet: A hearty and comforting casserole that combines savory BBQ chicken with crispy tater tots – a true crowd-pleaser!
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich: For another incredibly flavorful sandwich option, try this winning combination of chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing.
- Crispy Chicken Burger: Craving a satisfying crunch? This crispy chicken burger recipe is a must-try for a different kind of chicken sandwich experience.
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BBQ Chicken Sandwich
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 10 sandwich buns
- coleslaw and lettuce optional as toppings
Things You’ll Need
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Food processor or mini chopper
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Instant pot
Before You Begin
- We’re using both chicken breast and chicken thighs for this recipe. The mixture of the two goes really well together and the dark meat helps add even more moisture and flavor. You can certainly use all chicken breast if that’s what you prefer.
- We’re partial to our Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce for this recipe, however, any bottled barbecue sauce will do.
Instructions
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Coarsely chop onion and place into a mini chopper or food processor. Blend until until finely minced. Set aside.
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To the Instant Pot, add chicken stock and all the chicken breasts and thighs.
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Sprinkle chicken with garlic powder and onion powder, drizzle with Worcestershire and liquid smoke.
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Add the finely minced onion on top of everything. Sprinkle with brown sugar and top it all with the barbecue sauce.
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Close lid and turn vent to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Do a 10 minute natural release, then open vent to release any remaining pressure.
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Remove lid and spoon off much of the liquid, but reserve it in cases you need to add some back in. Shred the chicken with two forks. If too dry add some of the reserved liquid back in.
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TIP – the chicken mixture may drip some of its liquid, making the bottom bun soggy. You can either drain it more and add more barbecue sauce, or line each bottom bun with lettuce before adding the chicken.
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Scoop 1/2 cup of chicken onto each sandwich bun. Top with coleslaw if desired.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store any leftover shredded chicken in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing – Transfer the cooled chicken mixture to a gallon-sized ziptop bag or air-tight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Nutrition
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.