IP Chicken for Tacos, Bowls, and More!

Flavor-Packed Instant Pot Chicken — The Easiest Weeknight Win!

If there’s one recipe that never fails to save dinner time at my house, it’s my IP Chicken made with just a few simple ingredients — boneless skinless chicken tenders, taco seasoning of choice, and salsa. That’s it! You get juicy, flavorful shredded chicken that works in just about everything, even on its own.

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser — it’s tender, zesty, and completely foolproof. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just want something quick that tastes like you spent hours on it, this is the one to bookmark!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
  (Okay to go a little over — just don’t go under 2 lbs!)

• 2 Tbsp taco seasoning of your choice - you can use homemade OR use a 1-oz seasoning packet
  (Burrito seasoning works great too OR use a Spicy Taco seasoning packet, if you want to try something other than mild taco seasoning!)

• 1 jar salsa (15–16 oz) - I use Herdez Salsa Verde Mild (16 oz) OR Herdez Roasted Salsa Verde Medium (15.7 oz)

Instructions:

1. Layer & Season:

   • Place 1 lb of chicken in your IP and sprinkle with half the seasoning. 

   • Add the remaining chicken and top with the rest of the seasoning - this helps coat all the chicken pretty evenly, BUT if you’re in a rush, it’s okay to dump and go!

2. Add the Salsa:

   • Pour the entire jar of salsa right over the top of your chicken - if using homemade salsa, make sure it's blended not too thick of a consistancy, and that it's aroung 16 oz, ok if a little less, but not too much less.

3. Cook It Up:

   • Secure the IP lid, set it to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 25 minutes, and let the magic happen!

4. Quick Release

   • Once the timer goes off, carefully do a Quick Release - the steam will be HOT, so take caution!

5. Shred & Mix:

   • Once the pressure is fully released, as indicated by your IP pin (see your IP instructions if you are unsure what this is), open the IP lid, shred your chicken right in the pot, and mix it with all those flavorful juices. 

6. Serve & Store:

   • Serve in variety of ways - see below for Ideas.

   • Store in an airtight container for up to a week - it could likely go longer, but I say it's safe for about a week, and it's usually gone before then in my house (it's that good)!

Serving Ideas:

This chicken is a total meal chameleon — it pairs beautifully with almost anything - even some veggies!

• Tacos – Load up soft or crispy shells with this shredded chicken, cheese, and fresh toppings.

• Taquitos – Roll it up in tortillas, air fry, and enjoy the crunch.

• Enchiladas – Wrap it up, add sauce, and bake. Instant comfort food.

• Bowls – Build a hearty bowl with beans, rice, lettuce, cheese, potatoes, and/or veggies.

• Or simply by itself – Because honestly, it’s that good!

Why You’ll Love It:

• Only 3 main ingredients!

• Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Works for low-carb and/or balanced meals.

• It's full of flavor!

This IP Chicken has become one of those recipes I always come back to — easy, satisfying, and versatile. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a regular in my kitchen rotation.