Instant Pot Smoky Bourbon Chicken Delight
Experience the rich and smoky flavors of this Instant Pot Bourbon BBQ Chicken, a perfect blend of barbecue tanginess and subtle bourbon undertones. This healthy and speedy recipe is great for a busy weeknight, offering a delicious meal that pairs perfectly with whole grain pasta or rice and steamed vegetables, providing a balanced and delightful dining experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
barbecue sauce
3/4 cup
smoked paprika
2 teaspoons
bourbon
1 tablespoon ((optional))
olive oil
1 tablespoon
onion
1 small (sliced)
boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 lbs
kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon
fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and bourbon (if using) until well combined. Set this flavorful mixture aside.
2
Set your Instant Pot to saute mode. Add the olive oil and sliced onion to the pot. Saute for about 3 minutes or until the onion begins to soften and becomes fragrant.
3
Place the chicken thighs into the Instant Pot, followed by the prepared sauce mixture. Stir gently to ensure that the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
4
Cancel the saute mode, then lock the lid in place. Ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the Pressure Cook setting on high and set the timer for 15 minutes.
5
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position. Remove the lid once it's safe to do so.
6
Using a heat-safe cup, carefully remove 1 cup of the cooking liquid from the pot and set aside.
7
Shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce over the shredded chicken and mix well until evenly coated.
8
Serve the flavorful chicken warm, as part of a wholesome meal with whole grain pasta or rice and steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Instant Pot Smoky Bourbon Chicken Delight?
It is a quick and flavorful pressure cooker meal featuring chicken thighs, BBQ sauce, and a hint of bourbon for a smoky, tangy finish.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it uses lean chicken thighs and can be served with whole grains and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The recipe requires 15 minutes of high-pressure cooking, plus time for the pot to come to pressure and a quick release.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may be slightly drier than thighs after shredding.
Is the bourbon required for this recipe?
No, the bourbon is listed as optional and can be omitted without ruining the flavor profile of the dish.
What type of BBQ sauce is recommended?
You can use any variety you prefer, though a hickory or honey-based BBQ sauce complements the smoky paprika well.
How do I shred the chicken easily?
The chicken is tender enough to be shredded directly in the Instant Pot using two forks after cooking.
What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs perfectly with whole grain pasta, brown rice, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, though the Instant Pot method is much faster.
Is the Smoky Bourbon Chicken gluten-free?
The chicken and spices are naturally gluten-free; however, you must ensure your choice of BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Using 2 lbs of chicken thighs typically provides approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Can I double the recipe ingredients?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as you do not exceed the 'Max Fill' line of your Instant Pot; the cook time remains 15 minutes.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, the shredded chicken in sauce freezes very well in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika with a drop of liquid smoke, or chipotle powder if you prefer extra heat.
Does the bourbon leave alcohol in the food?
While much of the alcohol evaporates during the pressure cooking process, a small trace may remain. Omit it if you have concerns.
How can I prevent an Instant Pot 'Burn' warning?
Ensure you stir the chicken and sauce well and that there is enough thin liquid in the pot before sealing the lid.
Why do I need to set aside one cup of liquid?
Removing the excess cooking liquid prevents the shredded chicken from becoming too watery or diluted.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen boneless thighs, but you should increase the pressure cook time to 20 minutes.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or use a spicy variety of BBQ sauce to increase the heat level.
What kind of onion is best for this recipe?
A small yellow or white onion works best for a classic savory flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the sweet and savory BBQ flavor is generally very popular with children, especially if the bourbon is omitted.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cook time to about 20-22 minutes and remove the bones before shredding the meat.
What does 'quick release' mean?
A quick release involves manually turning the steam release valve to the venting position immediately after the timer ends.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter can be used for the saute step to add a richer flavor to the onions.
What if the chicken isn't saucy enough?
You can add more BBQ sauce at the very end after shredding the chicken to reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe good for weekly meal prep?
Absolutely, this chicken stays moist and flavorful when reheated throughout the week.
What texture should the chicken have?
The chicken should be very tender and 'fall-apart' soft, making it easy to shred and soak up the sauce.
Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes, any standard whiskey will provide a similar flavor profile to bourbon in this recipe.
Should I brown the chicken before pressure cooking?
No, browning is not necessary for this specific recipe; the chicken cooks directly in the sauce after the onions are sauteed.