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Quick Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast Shredded Recipe in 20 Minutes

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A fast and easy method to cook frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, resulting in tender, juicy shredded chicken in just 20 minutes without thawing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • Optional extras: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne, splash of lemon juice or vinegar, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  1. Measure and season the frozen chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. (5 minutes)
  2. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot inner pot.
  3. Place the seasoned frozen chicken breasts in a single layer inside the Instant Pot. (1-2 minutes)
  4. Close the lid securely and set the valve to sealing. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the timer for 12 minutes on high pressure. (2 minutes)
  5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting. (7 minutes)
  6. Remove the chicken breasts using tongs or a slotted spoon and shred with two forks or meat claws. (5 minutes)
  7. Optionally, toss shredded chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, or chopped herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Use low-sodium broth to control salt. For larger or thicker chicken breasts, increase pressure cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Natural pressure release for 5 minutes is key to moist chicken. If undercooked, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Avoid cooking vegetables with chicken to prevent overcooking veggies. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently with broth to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, frozen chicken, shredded chicken, quick dinner, pressure cooker, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, weeknight meal