Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders Savory and Simple Meal

Craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further than these Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders! They’re savory, simple, and perfect for any weekday dinner. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have tender chicken coated in rich BBQ sauce, ready to pile on soft slider buns. Whether it’s for game day or a family feast, these sliders promise to satisfy everyone. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
The chicken is the star of this dish. I always go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook nicely and shred easily. The BBQ sauce adds sweet and tangy flavors. You can pick any sauce you love. The chicken broth keeps the meat juicy and adds depth to the taste.
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings (coleslaw, pickles)
The seasonings are key to making the chicken burst with flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder bring a savory taste. Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky note. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper for balance. For toppings, coleslaw adds crunch and freshness. Pickles give a tangy twist that brightens each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Seasoning Chicken Breasts
First, take your chicken breasts out. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. Use your hands to rub the spices in well.
Adding Ingredients to Instant Pot
Next, put the seasoned chicken into the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken broth over it. Then, add your favorite BBQ sauce on top. This sauce will make the chicken juicy and tasty.
Cooking Process
Setting Up Instant Pot
Close the lid tightly on the Instant Pot. Make sure the vent is sealed. This step helps build pressure for cooking.
Pressure Cooking Time
Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 15 minutes. After it beeps, let it release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Then, do a quick release for any extra pressure.
Shredding and Assembling the Sliders
Shredding Chicken
Once you open the lid, the chicken should be tender. Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it well with the BBQ sauce until every piece is coated.
Spoon Chicken on Slider Buns
Take your slider buns and place the bottom half on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken on each bun. If you like, add coleslaw for some crunch. Place the top half of the bun on each slider. You can also add pickles for extra flavor. Serve these warm for a delicious meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting BBQ Chicken Sliders
Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce
Pick a BBQ sauce that matches your taste. You can use sweet, spicy, or tangy sauces. My favorites include a honey BBQ for sweetness or a Kansas City style for rich flavor. Feel free to mix sauces for a unique taste!
Tips for Shredding Chicken Easily
To shred chicken fast, use two forks. Just hold the chicken in one fork and pull apart with the other. Doing this in the Instant Pot helps keep the chicken moist. Make sure to mix the chicken with the sauce after shredding for extra flavor.
Enhancing Flavors
Additional Seasoning Recommendations
You can add more spices for a kick. Try cayenne pepper for heat or cumin for warmth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can deepen the flavor, too. Experiment with what you love!
Pairing Suggestions
Serve these sliders with crunchy sides. Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the sauce. You might also enjoy potato chips or a fresh salad alongside. Don’t forget pickles for a tangy finish!
Variations
Different Meats
You can switch up your sliders with different meats. Pulled pork works great. It offers a rich, smoky flavor. Just use the same method. You can also use turkey. Ground turkey or turkey breasts both work well. They absorb the BBQ sauce nicely.
Slider Topping Variations
Toppings can change the whole meal. Try different slaw recipes. For a twist, use apple slaw. It adds a sweet crunch. You might also consider spicy slaw. This can give your sliders a kick.
For garnishes, pickles are classic. They add a nice tang. You can also use jalapeños for heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten flavors. Just sprinkle them on top. Get creative and mix it up!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store your leftover BBQ chicken sliders, follow these steps:
- Place the sliders in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the fridge.
- They last for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they cool before sealing.
Refrigeration keeps the sliders fresh. You can also store the chicken separately from the buns. This way, the buns stay soft.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save BBQ chicken sliders for later, freezing is a great option:
- Shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce.
- Spoon the mixture into freezer bags.
- Remove excess air and seal tightly.
- Label the bags with the date.
These can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to use freezer-safe bags to keep the chicken fresh.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your sliders again, reheating is key:
- Use the microwave for quick reheating. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
- For better texture, use the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes.
- If you froze the chicken, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating helps restore moisture and flavor. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out. Enjoy your tasty sliders!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. It is a great option for busy days. When using frozen chicken, just remember to adjust the cooking time to 20 minutes instead of 15. The Instant Pot will still cook the chicken perfectly.
1. Place the frozen chicken in the pot.
2. Add the BBQ sauce and chicken broth as usual.
3. Seal the lid and set it to high pressure.
The Instant Pot will do its magic and ensure the chicken is tender and juicy.
How do I get the chicken to shred easily?
To shred chicken easily, cook it until it’s very tender. Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart.
- Shred the chicken right in the pot. This keeps it moist.
- Ensure you mix it well with the BBQ sauce after shredding. This adds great flavor.
With these steps, you will get perfectly shredded chicken every time.
What type of BBQ sauce is best for sliders?
The best BBQ sauce is one that fits your taste. Here are some suggestions:
- Sweet BBQ Sauce: This works well if you like a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: Perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
- Smoky BBQ Sauce: This adds a rich, deep flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite for the sliders!
You’ve learned how to make tasty Instant Pot BBQ chicken sliders. We covered key ingredients, steps, and tips. Remember to pick the right sauce and season well for great flavor. Try different meats and toppings to keep things fresh. Store and reheat wisely to enjoy them later. You can easily make this dish at home. With practice, your sliders will impress everyone. Enjoy experimenting with this fun and simple recipe!
