Name: Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade); Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice and fresh cilantro for garnish

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken Recipe

It infuses rich flavor into tender chicken using bright and zesty salsa verde.
It’s extremely versatile—serve it in tacos, over rice, in salads, or in burrito bowls.
It’s a low-effort, high-reward recipe that’s ideal for meal prep and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless skinless chicken breasts and/or thighs
Salsa verde (jarred or homemade)
Garlic
Jalapeño (or other green chili)
Ground cumin
Mexican oregano
Onion powder
Scallions
Fresh cilantro
Honey (optional)
Salt and pepper

Directions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the Instant Pot along with salsa verde, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, oregano, and onion powder.
Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then use a quick-release for the rest.
Shred the chicken using two forks (in the pot or on a plate), then return it to the sauce.
Stir in chopped scallions, fresh cilantro, and a touch of honey if using. Adjust seasoning.
Serve in tacos, burrito bowls, over rice, or however you like.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 8 servings (yields approximately 5 cups shredded chicken)
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes + 10 minutes pressure release
Total time: ~25–30 minutes

Variations

Use both chicken breasts and thighs for added moisture.
Remove jalapeño seeds for mild heat, or leave them in for extra spice.
Make it in a slow cooker: cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6–8 hours.
Stir in sour cream or crema at the end for a creamy version.
Use red salsa instead of salsa verde for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Let chicken cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers or bags for up to 3–4 months.
To reheat: Warm gently in a pan with a splash of broth or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, just adjust the cook time based on your Instant Pot’s instructions for frozen poultry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your salsa verde and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

What if I don’t have Mexican oregano?

You can substitute with regular oregano or marjoram, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How can I make it mild for kids?

Remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño or omit it entirely for a gentler heat.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

It should shred easily with two forks and be fully white inside. The Instant Pot ensures it’s cooked through.

Can I serve this without tortillas?

Absolutely—serve over rice, in grain bowls, or on salads for a low-carb meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your Instant Pot has enough capacity and increase the liquid slightly if needed.

Will the chicken dry out if I wait to shred it?

It’s best to shred it while it’s warm and mix it with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

What are the best toppings for serving?

Try fresh avocado, diced onions, extra cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or lime wedges.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes—this dish stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is a flavorful, no-fuss solution for quick dinners and weekly meal prep. With bold green salsa, tender shredded chicken, and endless serving possibilities, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Whether wrapped in tortillas or spooned over rice, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.