9 Cheesy & Flavorful Instant Pot Queso Chicken Taco Recipes

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Have you ever wondered if the secret to a perfect taco night lies in the simplicity of your Instant Pot? It's true that with just a few ingredients, you can create a variety of cheesy and flavorful queso chicken tacos that will impress your family and friends. From classic recipes to unique twists, there's a taco for every palate. Curious about how to elevate your next meal? Let's explore these delicious options.

Key Takeaways

• Explore classic Queso Chicken Tacos made with shredded chicken, cheese, and tortillas for a quick and easy meal.
• Try flavor variations like Spicy Chipotle or Creamy Ranch for a unique twist on traditional tacos.
• BBQ Queso Chicken Tacos combine sweet BBQ sauce with creamy queso for a delicious fusion dish.
• Cilantro Lime and Southwest Queso Chicken Tacos enhance the flavors with fresh herbs and spices.
• Experiment with Honey Mustard or Garlic Parmesan variations for additional cheesy and flavorful options.

Classic Queso Chicken Tacos

Using your Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the chicken with incredible flavors, making it succulent and easy to shred.

Pair these tacos with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime, to elevate the dish even further.

Let's explore the ingredients you'll need and the steps to create this mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado, lime wedges

Cooking Instructions:

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the chicken broth over them.

Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly on top, followed by the salsa.

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.

Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.

After the pressure has been released, remove the lid and shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks.

Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.

Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave, then fill each tortilla with the queso chicken mixture.

Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.

Extra Tips:

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken before cooking.

You can also make this dish even creamier by adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the queso mixture.

If you're short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be a quick substitute—just skip the pressure cooking step and mix it with the salsa and cheese until heated through.

Enjoy your flavorful tacos!

Spicy Chipotle Queso Chicken Tacos

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Serve them with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor. Gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken broth and minced chipotle in adobo sauce to the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is well covered in the flavorful liquid.
3. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining steam.
5. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the queso dip, allowing it to heat through for a few minutes.
7. Serve the spicy queso chicken in your choice of tortillas and garnish with your favorite toppings.

Extra Tips:

For a milder version, you can adjust the amount of chipotle used or opt for a different type of queso that suits your spice tolerance.

If you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; simply add it to the Instant Pot with the queso for a quick and easy meal.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings and salsas to personalize your tacos even further!

Creamy Ranch Queso Chicken Tacos

These tacos aren't just simple to make, but they're also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the level of spice by choosing a mild or spicy queso, and the toppings can be tailored to suit your preferences.

Whether you prefer crunchy lettuce, fresh tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cilantro, these creamy ranch queso chicken tacos are a hit any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup queso cheese dip
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, avocado

Instructions:

1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, then pour the ranch dressing, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix over the top. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
2. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 5 minutes before moving the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the queso cheese dip until well combined.

To serve, warm the flour tortillas in a pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the creamy ranch queso chicken mixture and top with your desired toppings. Roll them up and enjoy your delicious tacos!

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the ranch dressing for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the ranch flavor and make the chicken even more tender.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of queso cheese dips to find your favorite combination. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

BBQ Queso Chicken Tacos

BBQ Queso Chicken Tacos are a delicious fusion of flavors that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with creamy queso and tender chicken. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends, allowing everyone to build their own tacos just the way they like them.

The Instant Pot makes cooking the chicken quick and easy, infusing it with the rich flavors of BBQ sauce while keeping it moist and tender.

To elevate your taco experience, consider adding fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and avocado. The creamy queso adds an irresistible richness that pairs perfectly with the tangy BBQ sauce, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor.

These tacos are sure to become a family favorite, providing a satisfying meal that's simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup queso dip
• 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Optional: cilantro, jalapeños for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the BBQ sauce over them. Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to cook on high for 10 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
2. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the queso dip until well combined. Let it warm through for another 2-3 minutes on the sauté setting if needed.

Extra Tips:

When assembling your BBQ Queso Chicken Tacos, warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when you fill them.

Additionally, feel free to customize your toppings based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Adding a squeeze of lime juice on top can brighten the flavors even more! Enjoy your delicious tacos!

Cilantro Lime Queso Chicken Tacos

Cilantro Lime Queso Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, zesty lime, and creamy queso. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The combination of fresh cilantro and lime juice elevates the dish, giving it a revitalizing twist that complements the richness of the queso. Cooking these tacos in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

The pressure cooker infuses the chicken with all the delicious seasonings, making it incredibly easy to shred and serve. Once you've made your cilantro lime queso chicken, simply pile it into warm tortillas and top with your favorite garnishes for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the Instant Pot.
2. Pour in the juice of both limes and add the chopped cilantro. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the queso dip until the chicken is well coated.

To serve, warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the cilantro lime queso chicken mixture and top with your choice of diced tomatoes, avocado, or sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Extra Tips:

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture before cooking. If you have leftovers, the cilantro lime queso chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and makes for a delicious filling in burritos, salads, or over rice.

Enjoy experimenting with different toppings to create your perfect taco!

Southwest Queso Chicken Tacos

Southwest Queso Chicken Tacos are a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of the Southwest to your dinner table. Using the Instant Pot, this recipe allows you to cook tender and flavorful chicken in a creamy queso sauce, all while saving time.

Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together, these tacos are sure to please everyone. The combination of spices, cheese, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with your favorite taco toppings.

Serve these tacos with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor. Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions for this delightful dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup queso cheese (or cheese dip)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cilantro, lime wedges, avocado

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the Instant Pot and add the chicken broth and salsa.
3. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once finished, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add the queso cheese, and stir until well combined and creamy.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices and salsa for a few hours before cooking.

If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a spicy salsa or add diced jalapeños to the mix.

Feel free to customize your tacos with your favorite toppings to make them even more delicious!

Honey Mustard Queso Chicken Tacos

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with these Honey Mustard Queso Chicken Tacos. This recipe combines tender chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, bringing a unique twist to traditional tacos. The addition of creamy queso elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for taco nights or casual gatherings.

Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

These Honey Mustard Queso Chicken Tacos aren't only delicious but also convenient to make using your Instant Pot. In just a short time, you can have a flavorful filling ready to be wrapped in warm tortillas. Whether you're feeding a family or preparing for a party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Let's explore the ingredients and cooking process.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 cup queso dip
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the Instant Pot, heat the olive oil on the sauté setting. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
3. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, then stir in the queso dip until well combined.

Extra Tips:

For an extra punch of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey mustard mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

Additionally, feel free to customize your taco toppings to suit your taste. Fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the dish, while avocado adds a creamy texture.

Enjoy your Honey Mustard Queso Chicken Tacos with friends and family for a delicious meal!

Garlic Parmesan Queso Chicken Tacos

Garlic Parmesan Queso Chicken Tacos are a delicious and indulgent twist on traditional tacos, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, creamy queso, and aromatic garlic and parmesan creates a mouthwatering filling that's certain to please taco lovers.

Using an Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy, allowing you to whip up this flavorful dish in no time. This recipe isn't only simple but also versatile. You can customize your tacos with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños.

The rich, cheesy sauce enveloping the chicken guarantees that every bite is bursting with flavor. Get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience with these Garlic Parmesan Queso Chicken Tacos!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 small tortillas
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the Instant Pot along with the chicken broth. Seal the lid and set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
2. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot, and stir in the queso dip and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined. Allow the mixture to heat through for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Serve the cheesy chicken mixture in warm tortillas and add your favorite toppings for a delightful finishing touch.

Extra Tips:

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the queso dip while mixing it with the chicken. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Queso Chicken Tacos with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor!

Taco Bell Inspired Queso Chicken Tacos

If you're craving the bold flavors of Taco Bell but want to enjoy a homemade version, these Queso Chicken Tacos are the perfect solution. Using an Instant Pot, you can whip up this quick and delicious meal in no time.

This recipe combines tender, shredded chicken with a creamy queso sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a satisfying taco experience that will satisfy your fast-food cravings without the drive-thru line.

These tacos aren't only easy to make, but they're also customizable! You can add your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro, to elevate the dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, Taco Bell Inspired Queso Chicken Tacos will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the chicken broth over them. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly on top of the chicken.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
3. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Stir the queso dip into the pot until well combined with the cooking liquid. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the queso sauce.
4. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of queso chicken in each tortilla and adding your desired toppings.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the taco seasoning and chicken broth for a few hours before cooking.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the queso sauce or try adding black beans or corn for added texture and taste. These tacos can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy reheating throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Recipes?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for these recipes. Just adjust the cooking time to guarantee it's fully cooked. The Instant Pot makes it easy, so you'll still enjoy a delicious meal without extra prep.

How Do I Store Leftover Queso Chicken Tacos?

When it comes to storing leftover tacos, you'll want to make sure they're airtight, or they'll dry out faster than you can say "leftovers." Place them in a container and refrigerate for up to three days.

What Toppings Pair Well With Queso Chicken Tacos?

For your queso chicken tacos, you'll love toppings like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and avocado. Don't forget a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of lime juice to enhance the flavors!

Can I Make Queso Chicken Tacos Vegetarian?

Yes, you can definitely make queso chicken tacos vegetarian! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms, jackfruit, or tofu. Add your favorite veggies and top with queso to create a delicious, meat-free version that everyone will enjoy.

How Do I Adjust Cooking Time for Larger Chicken Pieces?

When cooking larger chicken pieces, increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes per pound. Studies show that thicker cuts can take up to 50% longer to cook through, ensuring they're safe and delicious.