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Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated—this Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken recipe delivers bold flavors and tender chicken in just under 30 minutes!

Whether you’re looking to jazz up your weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal effort, this quick and easy recipe has you covered.

Perfect for serving in wraps, tacos, salads, or as a main dish, this recipe is a must-try for busy families and food lovers alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: Smoky BBQ and creamy ranch combine for a taste sensation.
• Versatile: Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish.
• Minimal Cleanup: Made entirely in the Instant Pot.

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (e.g., Hidden Valley)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Optional garnishes: Chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or fresh parsley

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Equipment & Appliances

• Instant Pot (e.g., Duo Nova 6-Quart)
• Tongs or meat shredders (e.g., Bear Paws Meat Shredder)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving platter

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• If using frozen chicken, ensure the pieces are separated for even cooking.
• In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and optional spices (smoked paprika and garlic powder).

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

• Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat 1 tbsp of olive oil.
• Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

3. Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot

• Pour a small amount of the sauce mixture into the bottom of the pot.
• Place chicken breasts on top in a single layer.
• Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

4. Pressure Cook

• Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
• Cook on High Pressure for:
  • 8 minutes for fresh chicken breasts.
  • 12 minutes for frozen chicken breasts.
• Allow for a 5-minute natural release, then quick release any remaining pressure.

5. Shred or Slice the Chicken

• Remove the chicken and shred it using tongs or meat shredders. For a saucier dish, mix the shredded chicken back into the remaining sauce in the Instant Pot.

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Serving Suggestions

The versatility of Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser for various meals.

Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve this dish:

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1. Classic Comfort Meals

• Over Rice: Serve the shredded chicken over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty, comforting meal. Drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top for added flavor.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes for a homestyle dinner. Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots to complete the plate.
• Alongside Cornbread: Serve with warm, buttery cornbread to complement the smoky BBQ flavors.

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2. Tacos and Wraps

• BBQ Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with shredded chicken, coleslaw, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce for flavorful BBQ tacos. Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves and top with diced tomatoes and green onions.
• Quesadillas: Use the chicken as a filling in quesadillas along with shredded cheese, then grill until golden and crispy.

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3. Sandwiches and Sliders

• BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Pile the chicken onto toasted brioche buns with pickles and coleslaw for a tangy crunch.
• Sliders: Create mini sliders for parties or quick snacks. Add a dollop of ranch dressing or chipotle mayo to elevate the flavor.
• Grilled Cheese Twist: Use the chicken as a filling in a BBQ grilled cheese sandwich for a fun, indulgent twist.

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4. Salads and Bowls

• BBQ Ranch Salad: Toss the chicken with a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, black beans, and avocado. Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing for a complete meal.
• Power Bowls: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice, along with roasted veggies, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
• Potato Salad Add-On: Mix the chicken with a side of potato salad for a flavorful BBQ-inspired side dish.

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5. Snacks and Appetizers

• BBQ Chicken Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with shredded chicken, melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for crowd-pleasing nachos.
• Stuffed Potatoes: Load baked potatoes or sweet potatoes with the BBQ chicken and garnish with cheese and green onions.
• BBQ Pizza: Spread the chicken over a pre-baked pizza crust, add mozzarella or cheddar cheese, and bake until bubbly.

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6. Family-Style Dinners

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the shredded chicken on a platter with sides like cornbread, pickles, baked beans, and a simple green salad for a rustic family-style meal.
• BBQ Buffet: Create a DIY serving station with tortillas, buns, lettuce, and toppings so everyone can customize their own meal.

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7. Meal Prep and Leftovers

• Meal Prep Bowls: Divide chicken into airtight containers with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or salad greens for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• BBQ Stir-Fry: Use leftover chicken in a stir-fry with bell peppers, onions, and a hint of soy sauce for a unique fusion meal.
• BBQ Chicken Soup: Add shredded chicken to a broth-based soup with beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a smoky twist on chicken soup.

No matter how you serve it, Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken is sure to be a hit, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Knowing how to store and reheat leftovers is key to reducing food waste and enjoying the dish later.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Ensure all air is removed before sealing. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
• Instant Pot: Use the “Sauté” mode and add a few tablespoons of water or sauce to gently reheat the chicken.

Pro Tip: To preserve flavor and moisture, reheat only the portion you need instead of the entire batch.

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Variations and Substitutions

Cater to different dietary needs and flavor preferences by adapting the recipe.

Dietary Adaptations

• Low-Carb/Keto: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and pair the chicken with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning mix are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free ranch seasoning or replace with a homemade mix of dried herbs and spices.

Flavor Variations

• Sweet & Spicy: Add honey or brown sugar to the BBQ sauce along with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Smokier Taste: Use a smoked BBQ sauce and double the smoked paprika.
• Asian Fusion: Replace ranch seasoning with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a teriyaki-inspired flavor.

Protein Substitutions

• Replace chicken breasts with:
  • Chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
  • Turkey breast for a leaner option.
  • Pulled pork for a hearty alternative.

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Pairing with Beverages

Enhance the dining experience by pairing the dish with complementary drinks.

Non-Alcoholic Options

• Iced Tea: A refreshing, slightly sweetened iced tea pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ flavors.
• Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade balances the richness of the chicken.
• Sparkling Water: Flavored sparkling water (lime, berry, or grapefruit) provides a light and fizzy accompaniment.

Alcoholic Options

• Beer: Opt for a hoppy IPA or a light lager to complement the smoky and tangy notes of the dish.
• Wine: Pair with a chilled rosé or a medium-bodied red like Zinfandel or Malbec.
• Cocktails: Serve with a whiskey sour or a smoky mezcal margarita for a bold flavor pairing.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Help readers avoid or fix potential problems while making the recipe.

Chicken Too Dry

• Cause: Overcooking or using too little sauce.
• Fix: Add a bit of chicken broth or extra BBQ sauce after shredding the chicken to rehydrate it.

Burn Warning on Instant Pot

• Cause: Insufficient liquid in the pot or ingredients sticking to the bottom.
• Fix: Ensure at least ½ cup of liquid is added to the Instant Pot. Stir sauce mixtures well before adding.

Sauce Too Thin

• Cause: Excess liquid after cooking.
• Fix: Use the “Sauté” mode to simmer and reduce the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.

Chicken Didn’t Cook Through

• Cause: Incorrect cooking time or frozen chicken not separated.
• Fix: Set the Instant Pot for an additional 2-3 minutes on High Pressure and ensure pieces are not stacked.

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Meal Prep Ideas

Incorporate this recipe into your weekly meal prep routine to save time and stay organized.

Batch Cooking

• Double or triple the recipe to make enough for multiple meals. Divide into meal-sized portions for easy storage.

Make-Ahead Components

• Sauce: Prepare the BBQ and ranch mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Chicken: Cook the chicken in advance and store shredded chicken in the fridge for quick assembly during the week.

Pre-Planned Meals

• Day 1: Serve the chicken over rice with a side of roasted vegetables.
• Day 2: Use the chicken in tacos with coleslaw and avocado.
• Day 3: Add it to a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
• Day 4: Create BBQ chicken sliders with buns and pickles.
• Day 5: Toss it into a pasta dish for a smoky twist.

How to Make This Recipe Without an Instant Pot

Not everyone has an Instant Pot, so offering alternative methods ensures this recipe is accessible to a broader audience.

Stovetop Method

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chicken broth. Pour over the chicken in the skillet.
3. Simmer: Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken occasionally, until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
4. Shred and Serve: Remove chicken, shred, and mix it back into the sauce.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Combine Ingredients: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, ensuring the chicken is coated.
2. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Finish: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it into the sauce.

Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat Oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer Ingredients: Place chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the BBQ and ranch sauce mixture over the top. Cover with foil.
3. Bake: Cook for 25-30 minutes for fresh chicken or 35-40 minutes for frozen chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Shred or Slice: Remove, shred or slice the chicken, and mix with the sauce before serving.

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Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas

Make this dish even more appealing for picky eaters and kids with these creative options:

• BBQ Chicken Pizza: Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on a pizza crust, sprinkle shredded cheese, and add the smoky BBQ ranch chicken. Bake until golden and bubbly.
• Mini Sliders: Serve the chicken in soft dinner rolls or mini slider buns with a dollop of ranch dressing and melted cheddar cheese.
• Cheesy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Use flour tortillas, chicken, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce. Grill until golden. Cut into small triangles for easy handling.
• Chicken Tenders Alternative: Roll shredded chicken into small patties, coat with breadcrumbs, and bake or pan-fry for a crispy, BBQ-flavored snack.

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Cooking for a Crowd

This recipe scales well for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Large Batch Cooking Tips

• Use a larger Instant Pot (8-quart) or multiple appliances if doubling or tripling the recipe.
• Make the sauce separately and toss with shredded chicken after cooking for even distribution.

Serving Suggestions for a Crowd

• BBQ Bar: Set up a DIY bar with buns, tortillas, lettuce cups, coleslaw, pickles, and various toppings, letting guests customize their meals.
• Appetizer Option: Use the chicken as a topping for crostini or in mini puff pastry cups.
• Buffet Style: Serve with large platters of sides like potato salad, cornbread, or mac and cheese.

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Homemade BBQ and Ranch Seasoning Recipes

Offer readers who prefer homemade flavors an alternative to store-bought ingredients.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Homemade Ranch Seasoning

• Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried dill
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
• Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container. Use 1-2 teaspoons as a substitute for store-bought ranch seasoning.

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Healthier Modifications

For readers looking to make the recipe healthier, provide practical suggestions without compromising flavor.

• Reduce Sugar: Use a no-sugar-added BBQ sauce and reduce the amount of brown sugar in homemade versions.
• Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and ranch seasoning or make your own seasoning blend to control salt content.
• Lean Protein: Swap chicken breasts for turkey breast or ground chicken for a lighter version.
• Increase Fiber: Serve with whole-grain sides like quinoa or bulgur instead of white rice or bread.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace ranch seasoning with a mix of dried herbs and spices to eliminate dairy while retaining flavor.

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Seasonal Twists

Incorporate seasonal ingredients to keep the dish fresh and exciting year-round.

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas to the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Summer: Serve the chicken cold in wraps or salads with seasonal produce like corn, tomatoes, and avocado.
• Fall: Pair the chicken with roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips.
• Winter: Use the chicken in hearty casseroles or serve over creamy polenta for a warming meal.

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Printable Recipe Card:

Smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken (Instant Pot Recipe)

Pro Tips for Success

• Thicker Sauce: Use the sauté mode after cooking to reduce the sauce for a thicker consistency.
• Spicy Twist: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.

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If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s sure to please everyone, give this Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Ranch Chicken a try.

It’s versatile, easy, and packed with smoky, tangy goodness!

Love this recipe?

Share it on Pinterest and tag us! Looking for more Instant Pot recipes?

Check out our Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chicken Breast for Weeknight Dinners series for more inspiration.

Enjoy!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works perfectly with frozen chicken. Simply increase the cooking time in the Instant Pot to 12 minutes on High Pressure instead of 8 minutes for fresh chicken. Ensure the chicken pieces are separated and not stuck together for even cooking.

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2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken breast for accuracy.

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3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in a juicier dish. The cooking time remains the same as for chicken breasts: 8 minutes on High Pressure for fresh and 12 minutes for frozen thighs.

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4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, consider the following options:

• Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sauce.
• Use a spicy BBQ sauce, such as a chipotle-flavored version.
• Drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish.

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5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the ranch seasoning mix with a homemade version using dried herbs and spices (such as parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder). Ensure your BBQ sauce is also dairy-free.

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6. What should I do if my Instant Pot shows a “Burn” warning?

The “Burn” warning usually means there isn’t enough liquid in the pot, or some ingredients are sticking to the bottom. To prevent this:

• Make sure you add at least ½ cup of liquid (e.g., chicken broth or water).
• Stir the sauce mixture well before adding it to the pot.
• Avoid placing thick sauces directly on the bottom of the Instant Pot.

If the warning occurs, release the pressure, open the lid, and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any stuck bits. Add a splash of liquid if necessary.

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7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if your Instant Pot is large enough (6-quart or 8-quart models are recommended). Ensure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer or slightly overlapping, and maintain the same cooking time.

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8. How do I thicken the sauce?

After cooking, use the Sauté Mode on the Instant Pot to simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.

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9. What sides go well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:

• Rice or quinoa
• Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
• Coleslaw or a fresh garden salad
• Cornbread or dinner rolls

For more ideas, check out the Serving Suggestions section in this post.

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10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep or making ahead. Cook the chicken, shred it, and store it with the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat as needed using the stovetop, microwave, or Instant Pot.

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