Name: Instant Pot Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 18 ounces Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce ((1 bottle)); ½ cup water

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This Instant Pot Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken is a flavor-packed masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious. Tender, juicy chicken is smothered in a sticky-sweet glaze, creating a perfect balance of savory and tangy notes. With just 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in under 35 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

The rich, caramelized sauce clings to every bite, while the chicken stays moist and succulent thanks to the magic of pressure cooking. Serve it over rice or alongside roasted veggies for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a touch of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken

Instant Pot Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken Ingredients

1 Tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the Instant Pot)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs total; thighs can be substituted for a juicier option)
1 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or substitute with minced fresh garlic for a stronger flavor)
18 ounces Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce (1 bottle; other BBQ sauces can be used, but Sweet Baby Ray’s is recommended for its sweetness and tang)
½ cup water (to help create steam and prevent burning)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Instant Pot: Grease the bottom of the Instant Pot with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the pot and season evenly with sea salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder.
Add the BBQ Sauce: Pour the entire bottle of Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce over the chicken. Do not stir to ensure even cooking.
Add Water: Pour ½ cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot (this helps create steam and prevents the sauce from burning).
Cook on High Pressure: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
Natural Pressure Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest in the pot for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors. Slice or shred the chicken and serve with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas

While Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce is delicious on its own, you can elevate your chicken with extra toppings or sauces. Try drizzling a bit of honey or hot sauce for a sweet or spicy kick. For a creamy twist, add a dollop of ranch dressing or coleslaw on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some crumbled bacon or pickled jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve It Up

This BBQ chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it sliced over a bed of steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, shred the chicken and pile it onto whole-grain buns for sandwiches. Pair it with classic sides like corn on the cob, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.

Storing and Reheating Made Easy

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Tips for Busy Cooks

Save time by using pre-measured spices or a pre-mixed BBQ seasoning blend. If you’re short on time, skip the natural pressure release and do a quick release after cooking—just be cautious of the steam! For even faster prep, use frozen chicken breasts and add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Common Questions Answered

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and can handle the same cooking time. What if I don’t have Sweet Baby Ray’s? Any BBQ sauce will work, but adjust the sweetness or spice level to your taste. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just ensure the chicken is in a single layer and increase the water slightly to maintain pressure.