Instant Pot Salsa Chicken
If you’re looking for a super easy, beginner-friendly recipe, this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken is a total game-changer! With just three simple ingredients and almost no prep, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful shredded chicken that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or even salads. The Instant Pot does all the work, making this a stress-free meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken
The magic of this dish is in its simplicity—chicken breasts, your favorite salsa, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning come together to create a mouthwatering, Tex-Mex-inspired meal. The pressure cooker locks in all the flavors, keeping the chicken tender and juicy while infusing it with the bold taste of salsa. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can use it in endless ways throughout the week.
Whether you’re a new Instant Pot user or just need a quick, no-fuss dinner, this recipe is for you. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even last-minute entertaining. Let’s get started! 🌮🔥
What You Will Love About This Recipe
- Beginner-Friendly – This is the perfect Instant Pot recipe for beginners because it requires minimal prep and only three ingredients! Just dump everything in, set the timer, and let the pressure cooker do the rest.
- Super Versatile – Use this shredded salsa chicken for tacos, burritos, nachos, salads, rice bowls, or even quesadillas. It’s a great meal prep option because you can enjoy it in different ways throughout the week.
- Packed with Flavor – The salsa and taco seasoning work together to create juicy, flavorful chicken without needing extra ingredients or complicated steps.
- Fast & Easy – Forget standing over the stove—this set-it-and-forget-it meal is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Keep reading till you get to the recipe card for the easiest dump and go Instant Pot freezer directions.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts, skinless/boneless
- 1 Tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 16 oz Salsa
Instructions
- Put 1 cup of salsa in the inner pot (spread it so it is covering the bottom, add a few TBSP’s of water if your salsa is very thick). Then add the chicken breasts on top.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken.
- Pour the remaining salsa over the chicken, covering it.
- Manual HIgh pressure for 15 minutes. (Press the Pressure Cook/Manual button and then the + or – to choose 15 minutes).
- When the cooking cycle has ended, let the pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes to naturally release the pressure. Then, after 10 minutes, manually release in case there is some pressure left.
- Remove the chicken to a large bowl and shred it, using two forks. Then add it back to the pot. You can also use a hand blender to shred the chicken. Watch my video below to see how its done.
- Stir to combine the salsa and chicken. Enjoy! (***Scroll to the bottom to see the video)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Instant Pot Salsa Chicken
- Choose the Right Salsa – The salsa you use will determine the flavor of your chicken! A chunky, flavorful salsa adds more depth, while a thinner salsa creates extra sauce. If your salsa is very thick, add a few tablespoons of water to prevent burning.
- Shred Like a Pro – For super easy shredding, use a hand mixer or stand mixer instead of forks. It shreds the chicken in seconds!
- Don’t Skip the Natural Release – Letting the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes after cooking keeps the chicken extra tender and prevents it from drying out.
- Double It for Meal Prep – This recipe doubles beautifully, and the leftovers are perfect for meal prepping. Store extras in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later!
Keep reading till you get to the recipe card for the easiest dump and go Slow Cooker freezer directions.
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts without adjusting the cook time. The Instant Pot will just take a little longer to come to pressure, but the results will be just as tender and flavorful.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and add extra juiciness. The cook time remains the same.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth or salsa to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
What are some ways to serve Instant Pot Salsa Chicken?
This shredded salsa chicken is incredibly versatile! Use it for tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, nachos, enchiladas, wraps, or even over a baked potato or salad for a low-carb option.
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken is one of the easiest Instant Pot Recipes to date I have made. Juicy and Tex-Mex seasoned chicken that is shredded and able to be used for tacos, enchiladas or even quesadillas! A versatile Instant Pot Chicken Recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts, skinless/boneless
- 1 Tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 16 oz Salsa
Instructions
- Put 1 cup of salsa in the inner pot (spread it so it is covering the bottom, add a few TBSP's of water if your salsa is very thick). Then add the chicken breasts on top.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken.
- Pour the remaining salsa over the chicken, covering it.
- Manual HIgh pressure for 15 minutes. (Press the Pressure Cook/Manual button and then the + or - to choose 15 minutes).
- When the cooking cycle has ended, let the pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes to naturally release the pressure. Then, after 10 minutes, manually release in case there is some pressure left.
- Remove the chicken to a large bowl and shred it, using two forks. Then add it back to the pot.
- Stir to combine the salsa and chicken. Enjoy!
Notes
***FREEZER DIRECTIONS
To REHEAT:
- Take 2 bags of shredded chicken, remove bag from freezer and sit on the counter while preparing dinner. (If in a rush, you can run the bag over warm water to loosen the frozen rice from the Ziploc)
- Put 1/2 cup of salsa in the inner pot (spread it so it is covering the bottom).
- Then add the shredded chicken in to your pot. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken.
- Pour the remaining salsa over the chicken, covering it as much as you can.
- Manual High pressure for 3 min. When cooking cycle ends do a quick release.
- Give salsa chicken a good stir. If any of your chicken still seems a bit frozen, put back on PC for 1 or 2 minutes depending on how much more cooking you may need.
- You can also add as much as a additional 8 ounces of Salsa to your chicken. (I found a needed a little extra salsa for 2 bags of shredded chicken.)
- Serve with Instant Pot Chipotle’s Cilantro Lime Rice or Instant Pot White Rice.
*****SLOW COOKER DIRECTIONS
Cook on high 4-5 hours, or on low 5-6 hours.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 162Cholesterol: 72mgSodium: 983mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 25g
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
Is this what we use the taco dinner kit for?
yes one of those would waork great with this.