Name: Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 Onion (chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 cup Chicken broth; 2 tbsp Chili powder; 1 tbsp Cumin; 1 tbsp Smoked paprika; to taste Salt and pepper; 8 Taco shells or tortillas (for serving); Toppings (such as lettuce, cheese, salsa, avocado, or sour cream)

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, then look no further than these Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot! This recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with spices and flavor while keeping it moist and tender. With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made this dish sooner.

The beauty of tacos is their versatility. You can dress them up with your favorite toppings or keep them simple—either way, they are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can make it at home.

Why It Works Every Time

The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to cooking chicken. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring that the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. The quick cooking time means you can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy families or last-minute meal prep. Plus, the combination of spices not only enhances the flavor but also adds that delicious taco seasoning that everyone loves.

What Goes In

To create these mouthwatering Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
Onion: Chopped, for a base of flavor.
Garlic: Minced, to add depth to the dish.
Chicken broth: This helps to tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
Chili powder: A key spice for that classic taco flavor.
Cumin: Adds an earthy warmth to the dish.
Smoked paprika: For a hint of smokiness.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Taco shells or tortillas: Choose your favorite for serving.
Toppings: Such as lettuce, cheese, salsa, avocado, or sour cream.

Tools of the Trade

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Instant Pot: The star of the show that makes this recipe a breeze.
Cutting board: For chopping vegetables and prepping your ingredients.
Chef’s knife: A good knife will make prep work quick and easy.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Mixing spoon: To combine your ingredients.
Tongs: Useful for serving the cooked chicken.

Directions: Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot

Now let’s get into the step-by-step process to prepare your Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Once hot, add the olive oil, followed by the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the onions are cooking, season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the spices to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken to the Pot

Add the seasoned chicken breasts directly into the Instant Pot, mixing them with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is submerged. This will create steam and help the chicken cook evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Open the lid and use tongs to remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Place them on a cutting board and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it with the juices for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Warm your taco shells or tortillas and fill them with the shredded chicken. Top with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado. Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily adapt this recipe:

Use lettuce wraps instead of taco shells or tortillas for a fresh and crunchy alternative.
Swap out the chicken broth with a low-sodium version to reduce sodium intake.
Add extra avocado and cheese as toppings for healthy fats.
Incorporate cauliflower rice as a base for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot turn out perfectly, avoid the following mistakes:

Don’t skip the sautéing step—browning the onions and garlic adds depth to the flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Stick to the cooking time to keep it tender and juicy.
Don’t forget to release the pressure naturally for a few minutes; this helps keep the chicken moist.
Don’t rush the shredding process; letting the chicken rest for a minute will help maintain its juiciness.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Here are some tips for make-ahead and storage:

Cook the chicken and shred it, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
You can also freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Prepare taco toppings in advance and store them separately to maintain freshness.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes and ensure the chicken is cooked through before shredding.

What can I serve with these tacos?

These tacos pair well with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make these tacos spicy?

Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for an extra kick.

How do I customize the toppings?

Feel free to get creative! Add ingredients like corn, diced tomatoes, cilantro, or lime juice to make your tacos unique.

Serve & Enjoy

Once you’ve assembled your Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot, it’s time to dig in! These tacos are not only delicious but also easy to customize to fit your preferences. Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner, a taco night with friends, or just for yourself, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair with your favorite sides, grab a refreshing drink, and enjoy this delightful meal.

With these Easy Chicken Tacos Instant Pot, you can savor the flavors of home-cooked tacos without spending hours in the kitchen. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious and satisfying meal!