Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe (gluten free)
One of my absolute favorites, go-to dinners is for sure this pulled pork recipe. And yes, I know everyone has their own recipe for pulled pork, but if you are looking for a recipe that is easy, quick, versatile, feeds a crowd, great for meal prep, and one that everyone will love, this is your new pulled pork recipe that just so happens to be naturally gluten free!
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Ingredients
- 6-8 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt meat
- 1 4 oz can mild green chili peppers
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Trim excess fat, leaving some for flavor, and cut the pork into large chunks. Place the pork in the Instant Pot and sprinkle all seasonings over the pork pieces. Using your hands, thoroughly rub the seasonings into the meat for even coverage.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then scatter the diced chilies over the meat.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High Pressure.
- Cooking Time: Cook 20 minutes per pound of meat (e.g., 2 hours for 6 lbs). If using a slow cooker, cook on Low for 8 hours or on High for 5-6 hours until tender.
- Once done, you can either: Quick Release – Turn the valve to venting for faster access. Natural Pressure Release – Let the pressure naturally release for 10-15 minutes for extra tenderness.
- Shred the Pork – Transfer the meat to a large bowl and shred using two forks. Pour some of the cooking juices over the shredded pork to keep it moist.
- Crisp the Meat (Optional, but SO Worth It!) For extra texture and flavor, crisping the pulled pork adds delicious crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy. You can do this on the stovetop or in the oven—both methods work great!
- Stovetop Method (Best for Small Batches)
- Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil (or another high-heat oil like olive oil). Add the pulled pork in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Let the pork sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden brown on one side. You are looking for browned bits and ends.
- Stir or flip the pork and let it crisp on the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Repeat with remaining pork, adding more oil as needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately!
- Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, drizzle in a little honey while crisping!
- Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)
- Preheat the oven to broil. Spread the pulled pork evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Place the pan in the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes until the pork starts to crisp and darken slightly. Watch closely to avoid burning!
- Remove the pan, flip the pork with a spatula, and return it to the oven. Broil for another 3-5 minutes until the other side is crispy. Remove from the oven and serve immediately!
- Serve & Enjoy –
- For tacos, nachos, or rice bowls: Keep the full amount of chili powder – we love to pair this recipe with my pepper jack queso for delicious nachos!
- For sliders: Reduce chili powder to ½ tablespoon for a milder, family-friendly flavor.
- For BBQ-style pulled pork: Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce (gluten free) and serve with coleslaw on buns to make pork sandwiches.
Servings: 12