Instant Pot Salsa Chicken (with Fresh or Frozen Chicken)
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
2 mins
-
Cook Time
15 mins
-
Instant Pot Natural Release Time
20 mins
-
Total Time
37 mins
-
Servings
4 people
-
Calories
293 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Mexican
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken (with Fresh or Frozen Chicken)
Description
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken features skinless boneless chicken, either fresh or frozen, cooked with a cup of salsa, taco seasoning, and some cooking liquid such as broth or water. The chicken is placed in the Instant Pot with the seasoning and liquids, then cooked under pressure for 15 minutes if thawed, or 20 minutes if frozen. A natural pressure release of 15-20 minutes helps keep the meat moist. After cooking, the chicken is shredded with forks to mix with the cooking juices. This preparation yields tender, flavorful shredded chicken that incorporates the spices of the taco seasoning and the tang of salsa.
The texture is moist and shreddable, ideal for adding to Mexican-style dishes. Using skinless cuts avoids excess fat and improves seasoning penetration. Salsa adds moisture and flavor without needing extra sauces. The recipe’s flexibility means you can use fresh or frozen chicken with minor adjustments in cooking time.
This shredded salsa chicken works well for tacos, burritos, salads, or as a protein addition to rice and beans. The straightforward ingredient list and hands-off pressure cooking make it practical for meal prep or quick dinners during busy days.
Frozen chicken requires slightly longer cook time and takes more time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. Removing chicken skin is recommended for best texture and flavor absorption.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken I used boneless chicken thighs, skinless thighs or breasts, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup salsa (I used Pace)
- 1 cup Cooking liquid (broth, stock, or water)
- 2 packets taco seasoning
Instructions
- Place chicken (fresh or frozen!) in the Instant Pot. Sprinkle chicken with taco seasoning (obviously this works for thawed chicken, not so much for frozen.
- Pour salsa and cooking liquid on top of the chicken. I like to give everything a quick stir to make sure the taco seasoning isn’t sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Close and lock the lid. Select either the Poultry or Pressure Cook setting; set the timer for 15 minutes on Normal for thawed chicken, 20 minutes for frozen. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
- After the cook time is up, let natural release for 15-20 minutes (if possible). The longer you let it natural release the better when dealing with meat - I find waiting for a natural release keeps the meat moister.
- Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and transfer the chicken to a bowl with a pair of tongs. Shred chicken with two forks. You can either set aside the chicken or add it back into the Instant Pot after the next step.
- While you're shredding the chicken, press the Sauté button (on Normal) to reduce the leftover liquid. Set to Saute for 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally once the liquid starts to simmer.
- I like to spoon some of the reduced leftover liquid over the shredded chicken before serving. Or you can save it and use it as a base for enchilada sauce or taco soup. Use Instant Pot Salsa Chicken to make tacos, burritos, sandwiches, and more. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use either boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts based on preference.
- If cooking from frozen, increase pressure cook time to 20 minutes and expect longer pressure build time.
- Remove chicken skin before cooking for better seasoning penetration and texture.
- Natural pressure release enhances juiciness and tenderness of the chicken.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 293 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 293kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 45g | 90% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 0.04g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 215mg | 72% |
| Sodium | 904mg | 38% |
| Potassium | 723mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 538IU | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 39mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
