Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

Name: Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Pico de gallo, for topping

Published: October 16, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

This incredible Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought works great, but homemade blends can elevate your dish to new heights!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while adding moisture.

For the toppings:

Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness; just chop it up before serving!
Pico de Gallo: A blend of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice brings everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients together—trust me; it will make life so much easier when you’re in the heat of cooking. Dice up your garlic and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle your taco seasoning generously over the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy! The more flavor you pack in there now, the better your tacos will be later.

Step 3: Sauté Time

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the garlic until fragrant—about one minute—and then add in your seasoned chicken breasts.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth around the sides of the pot (not directly on top of the chicken). This helps build pressure while keeping your chicken juicy.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to ‘Manual’ for 12 minutes at high pressure. When it beeps—cue confetti—you’ll want to let it naturally release for about five minutes before doing a quick release.

Step 6: Shred & Serve

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks or if you’re feeling adventurous (and slightly reckless), use a hand mixer! Return it to the pot and stir it well with that delicious broth. Serve in warm tortillas topped with cilantro and pico de gallo for an explosion of flavor!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy those incredibly tasty tacos!

You Must Know About Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

This showstopping Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results with Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos, begin by searing the chicken for rich flavor. Then, prepare your spices while the chicken cooks under pressure to save time and ensure everything is ready to go.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos! Swap chicken for turkey or tofu, add different spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or toss in some black beans for extra protein and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or skillet until heated through without losing moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

This professional-quality Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these tacos when friends come over, and their faces light up as they take their first bite—it’s like watching a magic show unfold right before my eyes!

FAQs

What is Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos?

Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos are a delicious and convenient meal option that combines tender shredded chicken with flavorful spices. The Instant Pot allows for quick cooking, making these tacos perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken is typically seasoned with taco spices and cooked under pressure, resulting in juicy meat that can be easily shredded with forks. You can serve it in soft or hard taco shells, topped with your favorite ingredients like salsa, cheese, and avocado.

How do I make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos?

To make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos, start by seasoning chicken breasts with taco seasoning. Place them in the Instant Pot with some broth or water, then seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes. Once done, use the quick-release method to release the steam. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the cooking liquid for added flavor. Finally, fill your taco shells with the shredded chicken and your desired toppings.

Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos! The Instant Pot is designed to safely cook frozen meat without thawing it first. Ensure you add a bit more cooking time—about 15-18 minutes on high pressure should suffice. Just remember to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly to ensure proper pressure cooking and prevent burning.

What toppings go well with Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos?

Toppings can elevate your Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos significantly! Consider adding shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro for a refreshing crunch. You can also include sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or creamy avocado for richness. Don’t forget cheese—cheddar or cotija works beautifully—and a drizzle of sour cream or lime crema to enhance flavors further!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos offer a quick and flavorful meal solution that suits any occasion. By using an Instant Pot, you achieve perfectly tender chicken in no time. This recipe allows for customization with various toppings to cater to different tastes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple family dinner, these tacos will surely impress everyone at the table!