This Easy Instant Pot Shredded Mexican Chicken recipe is epic! It’s super easy and quick to make with simple ingredients, full of flavor, and feeds a crowd. Pressure cooker and slow cooker instructions were added, as well as step-by-step photos.

Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken in a serving plate with fresh lime wedges on the side.

Oriana’s Thoughts On The Recipe

If you love Mexican food as much as I do, I am sure you are going to flip out with this Easy Instant Pot Shredded Mexican Chicken recipe.

Trust me, it’s epic! I love how it’s packed with bold flavors, yet it’s so easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

You know how chaotic our weeknights can be, right? Between soccer practice, homework, and everything else, there’s hardly any time to cook. But this recipe is a lifesaver! Just toss everything in the Instant Pot, and in no time, you’ve got a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that makes everyone happy.

And let’s talk about versatility! This shredded chicken is perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or even just on its own. I always make a big batch because it keeps so well in the fridge and freezer, making meal prep a breeze. You’ll definitely want to add this to your regular rotation!

Shredded Mexican Chicken Ingredients

Ingredients needed to make Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken ingredients with name tags.

Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and instructions (scroll down).

This recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients! You will need:

  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.
  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Lean protein that’s easy to shred after cooking.
  • Chili Powder: Gives the dish its signature Mexican flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds depth and a subtle kick.
  • Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Smoked Paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly sweet taste.
  • Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Mexican cuisine.
  • Dried Oregano: Adds a hint of herbal flavor.
  • Chipotle Pepper in Adobo: Brings smokiness and heat to the dish.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
  • Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds a rich, roasted tomato flavor.
  • Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
  • Chopped Cilantro: Fresh garnish that adds a burst of color and flavor.

Process Overview: Step-by-Step Photos

Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and instructions (scroll down).

  1. Add chicken broth, chicken breast, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, chipotle pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix to combine.
  2. On top of the chicken, add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Do NOT mix.
  3. Secure the lid to the pot, select “manual” or “high pressure,” and cook for 15 minutes.
  4. When the time is over, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release the pressure. Then, remove the lid.
  5. Use two forks to shred the chicken.

Substitutions & Additions

Mexican Shredded Chicken is fabulous as is, but here are some tasty add-ins you can try!

  • Add Beans: Add a can of black or pinto beans just before you add the diced tomatoes.
  • Add Green Chiles: You can add two tablespoons of mild diced green chiles, but you are welcome to add more if you like. 
  • Add Jalapenos:  If you really like the heat, you can add a can of jalapeños.

Make Shredded Mexican Chicken In The Slow Cooker

To make this recipe in the slow cooker, place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. Use two forks to shred the chicken and serve.

Serving Ideas

My family loves eating these shredded chicken tacos with green rice or Mexican rice, and black beans. A green salad, baked beans,  or Instant Pot Drunken Beans would also be a great idea. Here are some delicious and versatile uses for the Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken recipe:

  • Tacos: Fill soft or hard taco shells with the shredded chicken, then top with your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Arepas: Using the Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken as a filling for arepas is a fantastic idea. Arepas are a versatile and delicious South American dish, particularly popular in Venezuela. Learn how to make Venezuelan arepas.
  • Burritos: Wrap the shredded chicken in a large flour tortilla along with rice, beans, cheese, and any additional toppings you like. Roll it up, and you have a hearty and satisfying burrito.
  • Salads: Add a generous portion of the shredded chicken to a bed of mixed greens. Top with avocado, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy cilantro lime dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
  • Quesadillas: Place a tortilla on a hot skillet, sprinkle with cheese, add a layer of shredded chicken, and top with another tortilla. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown, then cut into wedges.
  • Rice Bowls: Serve the shredded chicken over a bed of cilantro lime rice or Mexican rice. Add black beans, corn, diced avocado, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese for a flavorful and filling rice bowl.

Pro Tip: Double Batch! This Mexican Shredded Chicken is a fabulous recipe to double or triple!  Freeze leftovers in portion-size bags for a quick thaw and heat dinner.

Storing & Freezing Instructions

Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Let it cool completely. Add chicken to a freezer plastic bag or container. Press the bag flat and squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn. Seal, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat: Thaw it and reheat the chicken gently in a covered saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier.

Is this chicken spicy?

The Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken recipe has a moderate level of spiciness due to the use of chili powder and chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. However, the heat level can be adjusted to suit your preference. Reduce or omit the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and half the quantity of chili powder for less spicy.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Reduce the amount of chili powder and chipotle pepper in adobo.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and can be made a day or two ahead of time.

Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken in a serving plate.

More Mexican-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love!

❤️ Love what you see? Subscribe to Mommy’s Home Cooking email list, so you’ll never miss a recipe! Follow along on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for more fun! 

Recipe Card 📖

Easy Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken in a serving plate with fresh lime wedges on the side.

Easy Instant Pot Shredded Mexican Chicken

Oriana Romero
This Easy Instant Pot Shredded Mexican Chicken recipe is epic! It’s super easy and quick to make with simple ingredients, full of flavor and feeds a crowd. Pressure cooker and slow cooker instruction added.
5 from 3 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
 

Important

Don’t forget to check out the step-by-step photos above in the post—they’ll guide you through the process and make everything super clear!

Instructions
 

  • Add chicken broth, chicken breasts, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, chipotle pepper, salt, and black pepper to the instant pot. Mix to combine.
  • On top of the chicken add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Do NOT mix.
  • Secure the lid to the pot, select "manual" or "high pressure", and cook for 15 minutes.
  • When the time is over, carefully turn the valve to "Venting" to release the pressure. Then remove the lid.
  • Use 2 forks to shred the chicken. Mix well to coat all the chicken with the sauce.
  • Serve. Use it to make tacos, quesadillas, sandwiches, or arepas. Add it to a baked potato with some sharp cheddar cheese or add it to a salad (cold).

Slow Cooker Instructions:

  • Place all the ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
  • Use 2 forks to shred the chicken.
  • Serve. Use it to make tacos, quesadillas, sandwiches, or arepas. Add it to a baked potato with some sharp cheddar cheese or add it to a salad (cold).

Optional Step: Caramelize the Chicken

  • If you have the time, you can caramelize the chicken under the broiler. To do this, preheat the oven to broil and position an oven rack in the center. Line a baking pan with foil for easy cleanup. Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the pan and add ½ cup of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. Broil for 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches your preferred level of caramelization.
Oriana’s Notes
 
Store: store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Let it cool completely. Add chicken to a freezer plastic bag or container. Press the bag flat and squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn. Seal, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw it and gently reheat the chicken in a covered saucepan over medium heat until warmed.
Double Batch: This Mexican Shredded Chicken is a fabulous recipe to double or triple! Freeze leftovers in portion-size bags for a quick thaw and heat dinner.
 
 
I appreciate your feedback, and it helps others, too!Recipe reviews on the website are extremely valuable to other readers online. So, please don’t forget to give it a 5-star rating below.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 34gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 97mgSodium: 1297mgPotassium: 711mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1249IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Share your Creations!Tag @mommyshomecooking on Instagram and hashtag it #mommyshomecooking or Join my Private Facebook Group
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Calories 210
Keyword chicken easy instant pot mexican pressure cooker Shredded tacos

Similar Posts

5 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.