Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

The moment I tasted Cafe Rio’s iconic shredded chicken, I knew I had to recreate it at home. This tender, flavorful chicken boasts a distinctive blend of zesty and savory notes that has become a signature of this popular restaurant chain. Initially inspired by the flavors of Northern Mexico, this versatile protein can transform simple ingredients into restaurant-quality meals in minutes. With just a handful of ingredients and your Instant Pot, you can enjoy this copycat version any night of the week.

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What Makes Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken So Good? 

The magic of this Cafe Rio copycat lies in its unique flavor combination. The unexpected pairing of Italian dressing with Ranch seasoning creates a depth that perfectly complements traditional Mexican spices. The pressure cooker method ensures the chicken stays incredibly moist while absorbing maximum flavor in a minimal amount of time. The result is fall-apart tender chicken with layers of flavor that tastes like it simmered all day.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Do you want to simplify your dinner prep while still serving healthy and delicious meals to your family? This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is both easy to make and incredibly versatile.

Use the shredded chicken for tacos, burritos, over rice, or in soup — there are countless ways to enjoy it! Refer to the “How to Use It” section below for additional ideas.

Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken Ingredients

To make this Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken Recipe, you’ll need:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides lean protein that shreds beautifully after pressure cooking
• Zesty Italian Dressing – Adds tangy flavor and acidity that tenderizes the meat
• Chili Powder – Contributes classic Mexican flavor and subtle heat
• Ground Cumin – Delivers earthy, warm notes characteristic of Southwestern cuisine
• Garlic Cloves – Infuses the chicken with aromatic depth
• Dry Ranch Salad Dressing Mix – Creates the signature Cafe Rio flavor profile with its blend of herbs and seasonings
• Water – Forms the cooking liquid that helps create pressure and keeps the chicken moist

The Hidden Valley Original Ranch Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix Packet works well in this recipe. 

How to Make Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken

To cook shredded chicken in a pressure cooker:

1. Crush the garlic cloves with the side of a knife and mince finely.
2. Combine the chicken breasts, zesty Italian dressing, chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, dry ranch dressing mix, and water in an Instant Pot. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can use any pressure cooker. See the note below for cooking in a slow cooker.
3. Place the lid on the cooker, seal the pressure release valve, and set the timer for 12 minutes at high pressure. Increase the cooking time to 17 minutes if you are using frozen chicken. 
4. After the timer goes off, quickly release the pressure.
5. Use two forks to shred the chicken and return it to the Instant Pot.
6. Stir and allow the shredded chicken to soak up some of the cooking liquid before serving. 

NOTE: You can also cook this dish in a Crock Pot or slow cooker. After adding all the ingredients and stirring well to combine, cook for six to eight hours on low or four hours on high. 

How to Use the Chicken

There are almost endless options when it comes to finding new ways to use Cafe Rio chicken Sure, it makes an excellent base for the filling of tacos, quesadillas, burritos, or enchiladas, but you can get more creative that:

• Stir some salsa or diced tomatoes with the chicken and serve over rice or grits.
• Simmer carrots in chicken stock and add the shredded chicken for a quick soup. 
• Mix the chicken with mayonnaise and turn it into a chicken salad. 
• Use it as a topping for baked potatoes. 

Substitutions and Variations

Protein Options:

• Substitute chicken thighs for even more tender results
• Try with pork shoulder for a different flavor profile
• Use turkey breast for a leaner option

Spice Level Adjustments:

• Add a diced jalapeño for extra heat
• Include a dash of cayenne pepper for spice lovers
• Mix in a tablespoon of adobe sauce from canned chipotles for a smoky kick

Flavor Enhancements:

• Add a can of diced green chiles for texture and flavor
• Include the juice of one lime for brightness
• Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro after cooking

Slow Cooker Method

No pressure cooker? No problem! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker, stir well, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The chicken will be just as tender and flavorful.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture
• Stovetop reheating works well with a tablespoon of water to prevent drying out
• If frozen, thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating for best results

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken shines in so many dishes:

• Tacos with fresh toppings (diced onion, cilantro, lime)
• Burritos with rice, beans, and cheese
• Enchiladas with your favorite sauce
• Rice bowls with fresh vegetables
• Salads with avocado and crispy tortilla strips
• Quesadillas with melty cheese
• Nachos with all your favorite toppings

Creative Uses

• Use to stuff bell peppers with rice and cheese
• Stir into chicken soup for added flavor
• Mix with mayonnaise for a Mexican-inspired chicken salad
• Use as a topping for loaded baked potatoes
• Combine with scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast
• Stir into mac and cheese for a Mexican twist

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips:

• If frozen, thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating for best results
• Microwave with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture
• Stovetop reheating works well with a tablespoon of water to prevent drying out

Favorite Mexican Recipes

• Chicken Quesadilla
• Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice
• Chipotle Steak Bowl
• Fiesta Lime Chicken
• Ground Beef Tacos
• Nacho Fries
• Supreme Burrito
• Taco Casserole
• Taco Seasoning Mix

Popular Instant Pot Recipes

• Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
• Instant Pot Pasta Recipes
• Instant Pot Tri Tip Roast

Check out my easy Instant Pot recipes and the best Mexican food recipes on CopyKat!