If you are looking for a meal that is bursting with vibrant flavors, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights, look no further than this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with zesty salsa and warming taco spices to create a saucy, satisfying dinner that your whole family will adore. Whether you’re cooking from fresh or frozen chicken, this recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving a fuss-free, tasty meal that feels like a fiesta in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze thanks to its handful of simple ingredients, each chosen for adding the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. These essentials work together to create a deeply flavorful sauce that keeps the chicken juicy and captivating.
- 1.5 cups jarred salsa: Choose a medium or chunky style for great texture and bright tomato flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water): Adds moisture and enhances the sauce’s richness without overpowering.
- 1-2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Delivers that classic Mexican-inspired heat and aromatic herbs—adjust to your spice preference.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Both work wonderfully; fresh or frozen chicken will steam to tender perfection in your Instant Pot.
How to Make Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Start by adding the salsa, chicken broth, and taco seasoning directly into your Instant Pot. Give everything a good stir to blend the flavors, then nestle the chicken pieces gently into the sauce, turning them to coat nicely. Make sure some of the sauce gets underneath the chicken to prevent sticking and burning as it cooks.
Step 2: Seal and Set Your Instant Pot
Close the lid securely and set the pressure valve to sealing. This seals in all the moisture and flavors, ensuring the chicken steams perfectly in the sauce.
Step 3: Cook Under Pressure
Select the manual or pressure cook function on high and set the timer: 10 minutes if using fresh or defrosted chicken, or 15 minutes for frozen chicken. This timing is just right to get the chicken fully cooked yet juicy and tender.
Step 4: Natural Release and Open
When the cooking cycle ends, switch off the Instant Pot and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to naturally release some pressure. Then carefully turn the valve to venting to quickly release any remaining steam—remember to keep your face away and use a kitchen towel for safety!
Step 5: Shred and Soak
Open the lid carefully, then use tongs to transfer the chicken onto a chopping board. Shred the meat with two forks, then return it to the pot to soak up that luscious salsa sauce for at least 5 minutes before serving. This final soak intensifies the flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully and brighten the presentation. Try fresh chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, slices of avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess and fresh contrast.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides—fluffy rice, warm tortillas, a crisp green salad, or black beans make excellent companions that can either soak up the sauce or balance its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to mix things up? Use the shredded salsa chicken as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. You could also pile it onto nachos or serve it over a baked sweet potato for a delicious twist on a classic meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salsa chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and become even more delicious after resting overnight.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and saucy. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and maintain that delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and tend to be a bit more tender and flavorful, especially when cooked in the Instant Pot. Either option will give you delicious results.
Is it necessary to add chicken broth if I don’t have any on hand?
Not at all. You can substitute water if needed. Broth adds extra depth, but water will still provide enough moisture for the chicken to cook perfectly with the salsa.
Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Yes, and the recipe even includes instructions for frozen chicken—just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes. It is one of the easiest ways to whip up a meal without needing to thaw ahead.
How spicy is the Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe?
The heat level depends on your choice of salsa and taco seasoning. You can control the spice by selecting mild or hot versions, or adjust the taco seasoning quantity to suit your taste.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to feed more people. Just be mindful of your Instant Pot’s maximum fill line to avoid overfilling and adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of those recipes I turn to when I want something flavorful, easy, and comforting all at once. It’s a fail-safe way to get dinner on the table without fuss, and the versatility means you’ll never get bored. Give it a try and embrace the joy of a simple, delicious meal that feels like a little celebration every time you eat it.
Print
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Instant Pot Salsa Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, chicken breasts or thighs are cooked to tender perfection in a zesty salsa and taco seasoning sauce. The result is a juicy, shredded chicken dish full of vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors that can be served with tortillas, rice, or your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Salsa Chicken Ingredients
- 1.5 cups jarred salsa
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1–2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), fresh or frozen
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Instant Pot: Place the salsa, chicken broth, and taco seasoning inside the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine. Add the chicken and stir gently to coat it evenly, making sure some sauce is underneath the chicken to prevent burning during cooking.
- Close the Instant Pot: Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to the “sealing” position to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Set Cooking Time: Choose the ‘manual’ or ‘high pressure’ setting on your Instant Pot. Set the timer to 10 minutes if using fresh or defrosted chicken, or 15 minutes if cooking from frozen.
- Pressure Cook: Allow the Instant Pot to cook the chicken under high pressure for the set time. The pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the timer starts.
- Natural Release and Wait: When cooking ends, turn off the Instant Pot and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow natural pressure release.
- Release Remaining Pressure: Carefully turn the pressure valve to ‘vent’ to release any remaining steam. Use a kitchen towel and avoid placing your face over the valve to prevent steam burns.
- Open the Pot: Remove the lid carefully, watching out for any residual steam escaping from the pot.
- Shred the Chicken: Using kitchen tongs, transfer the chicken to a large wooden chopping board. Shred the meat with two forks until finely pulled apart. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce in the pot, letting it soak for 5 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of taco seasoning or choose a spicy salsa.
- Both chicken breasts and thighs work well; thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
- If using frozen chicken, make sure to adjust the cook time accordingly as noted.
- Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or over a salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
