Step 1: Prepare the Cooking Liquid

First, pour the 1 cup of chicken broth into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. This is the most crucial step for preventing a burn notice, as it creates a thin liquid layer at the very bottom that will heat up and create steam. Add the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce directly into the broth and give it a quick stir.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Spices

Place the chicken breasts into the pot in a single, even layer if possible. Don’t worry if they overlap slightly. In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce

Pour 1 cup of the BBQ sauce over the top of the seasoned chicken. Do not stir! This is another critical step. Thick sauces like BBQ sauce can settle on the bottom and scorch, triggering the burn sensor. By layering it on top of the chicken, it will thin out and combine with the other liquids as the pot comes to pressure. If you are using them, sprinkle the brown sugar and drizzle the liquid smoke over the sauce now.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the cook time to 12 minutes on high pressure for fresh chicken. If you are using frozen chicken breasts, increase the cook time to 15 minutes.

Step 5: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking cycle is complete, do not immediately release the pressure. Allow the Instant Pot to perform a 10-minute natural pressure release. This allows the chicken to rest and reabsorb some of the delicious juices, ensuring it stays incredibly moist. After 10 minutes have passed, carefully move the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once the floating pin has dropped, it is safe to open the lid. The chicken should be fully cooked and very tender. Using tongs, carefully transfer the chicken breasts to a large bowl or cutting board, leaving the liquid behind in the pot.

You can shred the chicken using two forks by pulling the meat apart. For an even faster method, use a hand mixer on low speed or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. The chicken will shred in seconds!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Turn on the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot. Bring the liquid left in the pot to a simmer. Let it bubble for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to reduce and thicken slightly. This concentrates the flavors into a rich, delicious sauce. Turn off the “Sauté” function.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce and stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the glorious sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb all the flavor.