Side Dish

Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Here’s a quick shopping list:; 2 Chicken: pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets.; 1 1 Spices: tablespoon dark chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.; 1 Liquid: cup low-sodium chicken stock.

Kathleen Looney August 7, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to a dish like Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken, the culinary world is your oyster! You can layer its flavor with endless possibilities. Here are a few pairings that will elevate your meal:

Tacos: Use the shredded chicken as the centerpiece of your taco feast. Load it up with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Rice Bowls: Serve it over a bed of fluffy cilantro-lime rice for a filling lunch or dinner. The flavors meld beautifully.
Salads: Toss the chicken into a fresh garden salad. The richness of the chicken complements crisp greens and zesty dressings.
Quesadillas: Mix it with cheese and some sautéed veggies, then grill until crispy. Perfect for a quick snack or meal.

Let’s dive into the rich, flavorful world of Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken and explore why it deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Imagine it’s Tuesday evening. You’re coming home after a long day at work, the hunger pangs are kicking in, and the idea of prepping dinner feels daunting. Enter the Instant Pot. With its ability to transform an array of ingredients into a fabulous meal in a fraction of the time, it feels like a magic wand for hungry hearts.

In my kitchen, I’ve whipped up a million variations of shredded chicken, but I keep coming back to this Mexican-inspired version. It’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and perfect for a variety of dishes. Trust me, once you experience the ease of making your shredded chicken in the Instant Pot, this will become your go-to recipe.

What is Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken?

At its core, Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that features chicken cooked with a blend of spices and broth until tender, then shredded. The beauty of this recipe lies in the spices that bring it to life. Each bite boasts hints of warmth and aroma, making this dish versatile for tacos, burritos, or atop a salad.

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of pantry staples like chili powder, cumin, and oregano. They create a mouthwatering experience that transports your taste buds straight to Mexico.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic behind this recipe is the Instant Pot itself. The pressure cooking function ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender. Here’s a closer look at why this recipe is a winner:

Time-Saving: What usually takes hours can now be done within 30 minutes.
Flavor Infusion: The high-pressure cooking allows the spices and chicken to marry together, creating a deep, satisfying flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices according to your preferences or add additional ingredients for variety.
Healthy and Budget-Friendly: Chicken breasts tend to be economical, and this dish keeps it healthy. You control the salt and sugar content for a guilt-free meal.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s a quick shopping list:

Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets.
Spices: 1 tablespoon dark chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.
Liquid: 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock.

With these simple ingredients, we’re ready to create something spectacular.

How to Make Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken

Admittedly, making chicken may seem simple, but flavor and tenderness make all the difference. Let’s break down the process step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering and measuring all your ingredients. This includes your chicken, the spice mix, and your chicken stock. Getting everything ready beforehand simplifies the whole cooking experience.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix all the dry spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring every inch is coated. This allows the chicken to soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Add to the Instant Pot

Place the seasoned chicken into the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken stock over the top. The liquid is crucial, as it not only prevents the chicken from drying out but also helps create that rich flavor.

Step 4: Cook on High Pressure

Cover the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the pressure cooking function and set the timer for 10 minutes. Yes, just 10! After cooking, allow it to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then finish with a quick release.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken. If you like it saucier, feel free to pour some of the cooking liquid over it before serving.

Step 6: Serve!

Now comes the fun part! Serve it up in tacos, on rice bowls, or straight from the pot if you’re feeling indulgent.

How to make Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken

Tips for Success

Cooking can sometimes come with its challenges. Here are some strategies to make sure your chicken turns out fantastic every time:

Use Fresh Spices: Check the freshness of your spices. Opt for whole spices when possible, and grind them just before use.
Don’t Skip the Liquid: The Instant Pot needs liquid to build pressure. Ensure the measurements are accurate.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, add more chili powder or consider adding jalapeños to enhance the kick.
Avoid Overcrowding: If you need to cook more chicken, do it in batches to ensure even cooking.
Shred While Warm: Chicken shreds best when warm, so don’t let it cool too much before you shred.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely when serving this flavorful dish), store them in an airtight container. Chicken can be refrigerated for up to four days, or frozen for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers so you know what’s inside.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

For those watching their dietary intake, here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 175
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fat: 4g
Sodium: 200mg

It’s a great source of lean protein and low in carbs, making it suitable for many diet plans.

Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken Recipe

How Would I Recommend Serving Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken?

1. Tacos: Pile the shredded chicken onto soft tortillas. Add toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and avocado for a fresh crunch.

2. Burrito Bowls: Layer the chicken over brown rice or cauliflower rice. Top with black beans, corn, pico de gallo, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or guacamole.

3. Enchiladas: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for corn tortillas. Roll them up, top with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly.

4. Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking tray. Top with shredded chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and bake until cheese is melted. Drizzle with sour cream and fresh salsa.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Sometimes life throws curveballs and you might not have all the ingredients. Here are alternatives you can use:

1. Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, use boneless chicken thighs instead. They are just as tasty and slightly more forgiving if cooked too long.

2. Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian take, swap chicken stock with vegetable broth. The spices will still offer a great flavor profile.

3. Spice Blend: If you’re missing a spice, use a taco seasoning packet instead. It generally contains similar spices and will work in a pinch.

4. Fresh Garlic and Onion: If you have fresh onion and garlic, sauté them in the pot before adding the chicken for depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure. With its unexpected richness and versatility, this dish can transition from casual dinners to festive gatherings effortlessly.

Whether you’re tucking it into a taco or piling it onto nachos, the flavor satisfies every craving. With easy preparation and the ability to customize, it stands out as a staple recipe worthy of a frequent return. Give it a try, and let your taste buds dance with joy!

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Print Recipe

Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 175

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

In my kitchen, I've whipped up a million variations of shredded chicken, but I keep coming back to this Mexican-inspired version. It's packed with flavor, simple to make, and perfect for a variety of dishes. Trust me, once you experience the ease of making your shredded chicken in the Instant Pot, this will become your go-to recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s a quick shopping list:
2 Chicken: pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets.
1 1 Spices: tablespoon dark chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.
1 Liquid: cup low-sodium chicken stock.