Budget-Friendly Pressure Cooker Bbq Chicken For Cheap Dinner Ideas
If you’re looking for a delicious and budget-friendly dinner idea, look no further than this pressure cooker BBQ chicken recipe. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Using a pressure cooker allows you to create tender, juicy chicken that is infused with the smoky, sweet flavors of BBQ sauce in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. The best part? It’s a cheap dinner idea that won’t break the bank!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat them evenly.
- Turn on your pressure cooker and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil to the pot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pot. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze and remove any browned bits.
- Add the BBQ sauce to the pot, stirring to combine with the broth.
- Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring they are covered with the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. You can shred the chicken or serve it whole, drizzled with extra BBQ sauce.
- Serve the BBQ chicken with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or cornbread, for a complete meal.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker?
Using a pressure cooker for this BBQ chicken recipe significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring that the chicken remains moist and flavorful. Pressure cooking works by trapping steam inside the pot, which increases the pressure and temperature, allowing the chicken to cook quickly without drying out.
This method is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, pressure cookers are great for infusing flavors, which is essential for a dish like BBQ chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Once your BBQ chicken is ready, you can serve it in various ways. Here are some delicious options:
- Serve it on a bun as a BBQ chicken sandwich topped with coleslaw.
- Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, topped with avocado and salsa.
- Pair it with classic sides like baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato salad.
- Add it to a salad for a healthy, protein-packed meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
You can also freeze the BBQ chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in a skillet or microwave.
Variations of BBQ Chicken
This basic BBQ chicken recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations:
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
- Honey BBQ Chicken: Mix in some honey to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Garlic BBQ Chicken: Increase the garlic powder and add minced garlic for an extra garlicky flavor.
- Herb-Infused BBQ Chicken: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cooking liquid for added depth of flavor.
BBQ Sauce Options
The BBQ sauce you choose can make a big difference in the flavor of your chicken. Here are some options:
- Store-Bought BBQ Sauce: For convenience, use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce. Look for options with lower sugar content for a healthier choice.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: If you have the time, making your BBQ sauce from scratch can add a personal touch. Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to create a delicious homemade sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in the pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the pressure cooker. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use any BBQ sauce that you enjoy. Some people prefer a tangy sauce, while others like sweeter or spicier options. Experiment to find your favorite!
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces can be used. Adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes for bone-in thighs or drumsticks to ensure they are fully cooked.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use skinless chicken breasts, and opt for a BBQ sauce that is low in sugar. You can also serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables instead of bread or heavy sides.
This Budget-Friendly Pressure Cooker BBQ Chicken is not only an easy recipe but also a versatile one that can fit into any meal plan. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a satisfying meal, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor the delicious flavors of homemade BBQ chicken!
