Instant Pot Shredded Buffalo Chicken
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins for Serving:
- Wraps, tortillas, or lettuce leaves
- Mixed greens or salad base
- Sliced celery and carrots
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing
- Crumbled blue cheese or feta
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
3. Pressure Cook:
- Add the chicken broth and buffalo sauce to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to coat it with the sauce.
5. Serve:
- Use the shredded buffalo chicken in wraps, salads, or as a topping for rice bowls. Add optional toppings like celery, carrots, blue cheese, or ranch dressing.
Macros (Per Serving, 1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: ~200-250 kcal
- Protein: 35-40g (from chicken)
- Carbs: ~2-3g (from buffalo sauce)
- Fats: ~5-7g (healthy fats from olive oil)
Why This Dish is Great
- High-Protein: Chicken is a lean, protein-rich base.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes using the Instant Pot.
- Versatile: Perfect for wraps, salads, or meal prep.
- Flavor-Packed: Spicy, tangy, and satisfying.
Pro Tips
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce for tanginess.
- Meal Prep: Store the shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps or over a bed of greens.
Enjoy this flavorful, protein-packed shredded buffalo chicken as a quick and nutritious meal! 🐔🌶️