Instapot Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes

So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. Guess what? Your Instant Pot isn’t just for blasting food at warp speed; it’s also a secret weapon for slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone chicken that makes you look like a culinary genius without actually trying. Today, we’re diving into a ridiculously easy slow cooker chicken recipe that practically cooks itself. You’re welcome.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Let’s be real, you’re not trying to win “MasterChef” tonight. You just want delicious food with minimal fuss. And that, my friend, is where this Instant Pot slow cooker chicken swoops in like a culinary superhero:

• It’s so easy, even your dog could probably supervise it (if they had opposable thumbs, which, thankfully, they don’t).
• It’s the ultimate “dump it in, set it, forget it” meal. Seriously, go binge-watch that new show; your dinner is handling itself.
• The chicken comes out so tender, you might actually shed a happy tear. No joke, it just melts in your mouth.
• Leftovers? Oh, you bet! And they’re versatile AF. Tacos, sandwiches, salads – you name it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather ’round, fellow lazy cooks! Here’s your shopping list. Don’t worry, it’s nothing fancy, just good stuff.

• Chicken: About 2-3 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs are juicier (IMO), but breasts work if you’re feeling lean.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup. The low-sodium kind is fine. We’re adding our own flavor, thank you very much.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Don’t cry, it’s worth it.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better. Fight me.
• Spices:
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika if you’re feeling fancy)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (for that little extra oomph)
• A “Secret” Splash: 1 tbsp of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. It adds a delicious umami depth. Trust me on this one.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, apron on (or not, we don’t judge). Let’s get this deliciousness going!

1. First things first, chop that onion and mince the garlic. Get it out of the way.
2. Grab your chicken and pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick. Season both sides generously with the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Don’t be shy!
3. Place the seasoned chicken directly into the bottom of your Instant Pot. No need for fancy searing here, unless you’re feeling extra.
4. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and add that secret splash of soy or Worcestershire sauce.
5. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the vent is sealed. Select the “Slow Cook” function.
6. Now, set your cooking time! For tender, shreddable chicken, I recommend 4-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. The longer on low, the more fall-apart it gets.
7. Walk away. Seriously. Go live your life. Read a book. Call your mom. Your Instant Pot is doing all the heavy lifting.
8. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the pot. It should fall apart effortlessly. Stir it all up with the flavorful liquid.
9. Serve it warm in tacos, on buns, over rice, or just straight from the pot with a spoon (I won’t tell).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is practically foolproof, there are a few rookie errors you’ll want to sidestep. Don’t be that person!

• Forgetting Liquid: Your Instant Pot isn’t a magic dry oven in slow cook mode. It needs that liquid to create steam and prevent scorching. Always add at least 1 cup of liquid. Dry chicken is a crime against humanity.
• Lifting the Lid Constantly: Patience, grasshopper! Every time you lift the lid, you let out heat and steam, significantly extending your cooking time. Resist the urge to peek!
• Not Seasoning Enough: Bland food is sad food. Don’t be afraid to go a little heavy on those spices. You can always add more at the end, but it’s harder to fix once it’s flavorless.
• Overfilling the Pot: Your Instant Pot has a max fill line. Respect it. No, it’s not a magical bottomless pit that will cook everything evenly if you cram it full.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Feeling creative? Or just missing an ingredient? No worries, we’ve got options!

• Veggies Galore: Want a one-pot meal? Toss in some chopped carrots, potatoes, or celery along with the chicken. They’ll cook down beautifully.
• Spice It Up: Swap the paprika and oregano for taco seasoning, Italian herbs, curry powder, or even a kick of chili powder and cumin. The world is your spice rack!
• Liquid Logic: Instead of chicken broth, try half broth and half white wine for a richer flavor. Or, if you’re making BBQ chicken, use half broth and half your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Chicken Cut: While thighs are my personal fave for juiciness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly fine. Just keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, as they can dry out slightly faster than thighs.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Got questions? I’ve got (casual) answers!

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Well, technically yes, but why rush perfection? And for food safety, I always recommend thawing first. If you absolutely must, add an extra hour or two to your cook time on low.
2. How long *exactly* does it take? Depends on your chicken and patience, but typically 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 on high. **For ultimate shreddability, I find 6 hours on low is ideal.**
3. Can I make a gravy from the liquid? OMG, YES! Once you’ve removed the chicken, you can thicken the remaining liquid with a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) and simmer it on “Sauté” until it thickens. You’re a genius!
4. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? Well, then you’re missing out on some fun, but a regular slow cooker works just as well! Just follow the same times and steps.
5. Is it healthy? As healthy as you make it! Lots of veggies, lean chicken, less salt… you get the drift. It’s certainly a wholesome, homemade meal.
6. Can I add BBQ sauce? ABSOLUTELY! For killer BBQ pulled chicken, reduce the broth to about 1/2 cup and add 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce along with the other ingredients. Slow cook away!

Final Thoughts

See? You’re practically a chef now. Who knew your Instant Pot had such a chill side? Go forth and conquer dinner with this ridiculously easy, ridiculously delicious slow cooker chicken. Your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you.

Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it!