Instant Pot Salsa Chicken [2 Ingredients!]

Two ingredients is all it takes to make this easy and delicious Instant Pot Salsa Chicken. So grab your Instant Pot (or pressure cooker) and have an easy shredded chicken recipe on your table in just 20 minutes!

The best salsa chicken

I’ve been making chicken salsa for years, but my love for this recipe really took it to a whole new level when I discovered I could make it in the Instant Pot. I’m almost embarrassed to share this recipe because it really is that easy. You put your chicken breasts in your Instant Pot, pour in a jar of salsa, and then cook.

So many other Instant Pot Salsa Chicken recipes use taco seasoning or a mixture of spices and chicken broth that ultimately lacks flavor. Not this recipe! A glass of salsa provides the necessary cooking liquid, but also the depth of flavor this recipe calls for.

By following my Instant Pot instructions, you really can have a delicious chicken recipe perfect for any of your Mexican dishes. From tacos to taquitos to burritos to bowls, this salsa chicken recipe is so versatile you can use it in multiple dishes throughout the week. Perfect for preparing Sunday meals!

Ingredients in Instant Pot Salsa Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken breast – You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs, but you should add 2 minutes to the cooking time. Just make sure your chicken is boneless and skinless
• salsa – You can use either store bought or homemade salsa

You will also need a pressure cooker for this recipe. I tested it with an 8 liter instant pot.

How to make salsa chicken in the Instant Pot

STEP 1: COMBINE INGREDIENTS

Add the steamer basket to your Instant Pot and place the chicken on top. Pour salsa over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is well coated in salsa.

STEP 2: COOKING + CUTTING CHICKEN

Close the cover and valve to the sealing position. Set to high pressure for 10 minutes. When finished, release the pressure naturally for 5 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure. Remove cooked chicken breasts with tongs and place on cutting board. Once cool for safe handling, use two forks to shred chicken.

STEP 3: MIX TOGETHER

Using tongs, return the chicken to the Instant Pot and toss with the remaining sauce.

Perfect pairings for salsa chicken

Frequently Asked Questions about Instant Pot Salsa Chicken

Can another pressure cooker be used? Most likely yes. However, I only tested this salsa chicken in the Instant Pot.

Can you use frozen chicken breast? Yes. Simply add 2 minutes to your cooking time.

Can you make chicken with salsa verde? Yes! You can change the flavor of your salsa chicken by using salsa verde instead of traditional red salsa. Here’s a homemade version.

Can you use homemade salsa? Absolutely! I love the salsa verde I mentioned above, but this corn salsa is just as delicious as this restaurant style salsa.

Can you use another protein? You certainly could, but the time to cook your protein will vary. I haven’t tested this myself.

How to save

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You can also store your leftovers in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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