Add the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients: brown sugar, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, pepper, and water. Pour this mixture over the chicken. Toss everything together so that the chicken is well coated.
Now, it’s time to cook! Close the lid of the Instant Pot according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Set it to the Manual setting on high and program the timer for eight minutes. Trust me, the anticipation will be worth it as the flavors meld together.
After the timer goes off, use the quick release method to release the pressure. Carefully open the lid once the pressure has fully released, revealing tender, juicy chicken.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken apart. This is the fun part! Don’t forget to pour some of the leftover sauce over the shredded chicken for extra flavor. Let it rest for a few minutes so the chicken can soak up the sauce.
To serve, you can pile the pulled chicken onto buns. I love adding some crunchy coleslaw on top for an added texture and flavor contrast. It’s a crowd favorite!
If you prefer the slow cooker method, add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix together oregano, salt, pepper, and half a cup of water. Pour this blend over the chicken.
Cook the chicken on high for two and a half hours. As it cooks, the flavors intensify and the chicken becomes incredibly tender.
After two and a half hours, mix the remaining ingredients with the other half cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the mixture thickens, which should happen quickly once it reaches a boil.
Pour this thickened sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and toss everything together, ensuring the chicken is well coated in that delectable glaze.
Continue cooking on low for an additional hour. The chicken will be melt-in-your-mouth tender at this point.
Once finished, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and pull it apart with forks. Serve warm with any remaining glaze on the side, if desired.
