If you’re craving bold, vibrant, and comforting meals, this list of Instant Pot dinner recipes is just what you need! Whether you’re new to using a pressure cooker or a seasoned pro, these Instant Pot Mexican recipes will bring authentic Mexican flavors right to your table with minimal effort.

From zesty tacos to hearty stews, these Insta Pot Mexican recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Each Mexican dish captures the essence of Mexican foods we all love—savory, spicy, and full of flavor! These Mexican food Instant Pot recipes are quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness.

Let’s dive into these flavorful pressure cooker recipes Mexican that’ll have you feeling like a pro chef in no time!

1. Instant Pot Chicken Tinga Tacos

These tacos are perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something super flavorful but don’t have hours to spend cooking. The smoky, slightly spicy sauce makes the chicken so juicy and tender. And it’s great for leftovers—just reheat and stuff into tortillas! This recipe is a family favorite, and it’s super easy to tweak the spice level for kids.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a drizzle of oil, then sauté the onions and garlic until softened (about 3 minutes).
  2. Add the chicken thighs, canned tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and all the spices. Pour in the chicken broth.
  3. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
  4. Once done, do a quick release. Carefully open the lid and shred the chicken with two forks.
  5. Serve the chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges!

2. Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa

This dish is a game-changer for taco night! The beef gets so tender and flavorful, it almost melts in your mouth. It’s one of those recipes that makes your house smell amazing while cooking. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or just a squeeze of lime on top.

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides, then set aside.
  2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot, cooking for about 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chipotle peppers, lime juice, and spices. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
  4. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
  5. Allow for a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then shred the beef. Serve with tortillas or over rice!

3. Instant Pot Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole

This enchilada casserole is like a cozy hug in food form. It’s cheesy, saucy, and packed with veggies. It’s also super versatile—swap out the veggies for whatever you have on hand. My kids love it, especially with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can of corn, drained
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the beans, corn, bell peppers, zucchini, spices, and 1 cup of enchilada sauce.
  2. Lightly grease the Instant Pot liner and layer the ingredients: tortillas, veggie mixture, cheese, and repeat. End with a layer of cheese.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes.
  4. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro!

4. Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Fajitas are a weeknight lifesaver! Everything gets cooked in one pot, so cleanup is super easy. The chicken turns out juicy, and the bell peppers stay just the right amount of crisp. Plus, the fajita seasoning gives it that restaurant-style flavor without much effort.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
  • 1 tbsp fajita seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a drizzle of oil, then sear the chicken strips for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add the onions and peppers to the pot and sauté for about 2 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt over the veggies. Add the chicken back in and pour in the chicken broth.
  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
  5. Do a quick release, then squeeze fresh lime juice over everything. Serve with warm tortillas, sour cream, and guac!

5. Instant Pot Beef Picadillo

This is a hearty and comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. The ground beef, potatoes, and spices come together perfectly, and it’s great over rice or as a filling for tacos or empanadas. My family loves this on a chilly evening.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium potato, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Cook the ground beef until browned, then remove excess grease if needed.
  2. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes, tomatoes, spices, and beef broth. Mix well.
  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  5. Quick release, then stir in the peas and let them heat through for a minute or two. Serve with rice or tortillas.

6. Instant Pot Mexican Rice with Vegetables

This rice is so flavorful, it can totally be the star of the meal! It’s loaded with spices and veggies, and it pairs well with almost anything—fajitas, tacos, or even grilled chicken. Plus, it’s so easy to make in the Instant Pot.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 cup peas
  • 2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Turn on sauté mode on the Instant Pot. Sauté the onion until softened.
  3. Add the rice, stirring for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
  4. Stir in the tomatoes, corn, peas, spices, and broth. Mix well.
  5. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

7. Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is warm, comforting, and full of Mexican flavors. It’s super easy to customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, tortilla strips, or a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a soup that feels like a hug in a bowl!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken, tomatoes, corn, black beans, spices, and chicken broth. Stir well.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
  4. Do a quick release, then shred the chicken with two forks. Serve with your favorite toppings!

8. Instant Pot Carne Asada

Carne asada is a classic, and the Instant Pot makes it so easy to get tender, flavorful beef in no time. The citrus marinade gives it that zesty, smoky flavor that’s just perfect for tacos, burritos, or even a salad topping. This one’s a hit every single time!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating)
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the steak and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
  2. Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, then remove.
  3. Add the beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Return the steak to the pot.
  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
  5. Do a quick release, then let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Serve with tortillas and toppings of your choice!

9. Instant Pot Mexican Black Bean Chili

This hearty chili is perfect for those nights when you want something filling and cozy. It’s loaded with black beans, tomatoes, and spices, and it’s completely vegetarian! You can make it as spicy or mild as you like.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, corn, and spices. Stir everything together.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  4. Do a quick release, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with avocado slices, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream!

10. Instant Pot Green Chili Chicken Pozole

Pozole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. This version uses green chilies for a fresh, tangy flavor, and the Instant Pot makes it super easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even meal prepping for the week.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (4 oz) can of diced green chilies
  • 1 (15 oz) can of hominy, drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken thighs, green chilies, hominy, chicken broth, cumin, and oregano. Stir well.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
  4. Do a quick release, then shred the chicken with two forks. Serve with shredded cabbage, lime wedges, and radishes!

11. Instant Pot Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Sauce

Shrimp tacos are such a treat, and they come together so quickly in the Instant Pot. The cilantro-lime sauce adds a fresh, creamy kick that takes these tacos to the next level. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Toss the shrimp with cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water to the Instant Pot and place the shrimp on a trivet or in a steaming basket.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Quick release and remove the shrimp immediately.
  4. Mix the lime juice, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cilantro to make the sauce. Serve the shrimp in tortillas with a drizzle of the sauce and your favorite toppings.

12. Instant Pot Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew

This hearty vegetarian stew is loaded with sweet potatoes, black beans, and warm spices. It’s a filling, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Plus, it’s super healthy without trying too hard!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
  2. Add the sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices. Stir well.
  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
  4. Quick release, then stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime!

13. Instant Pot Chicken Mole (Alcohol-Free)

Chicken mole is a rich and flavorful dish with a slightly sweet and smoky sauce. This version skips the alcohol but doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side, then set aside.
  2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and all the spices. Mix well.
  3. Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
  5. Do a quick release, then shred the chicken and mix it into the sauce. Serve with rice or tortillas!

14. Instant Pot Sopes with Refried Beans and Chicken

Sopes are little masa bowls that are perfect for piling on all your favorite toppings. This recipe makes it easy to whip up flavorful chicken and beans for a filling and delicious meal. It’s fun to assemble and a hit with kids!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 (14 oz) can of refried beans
  • 1 cup salsa verde
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 12 pre-made sopes (found in Latin markets)
  • Toppings: lettuce, queso fresco, sour cream, and avocado

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the chicken breasts, onion, salsa verde, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
  2. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
  3. Do a quick release, then shred the chicken and mix it with the cooking juices.
  4. Heat the refried beans on the stovetop or in the microwave. Warm the sopes in the oven according to package instructions.
  5. Assemble the sopes by spreading a layer of beans, topping with chicken, and adding lettuce, queso fresco, sour cream, and avocado.

15. Instant Pot Beef Birria Tacos

Birria tacos are a total crowd-pleaser. The beef is slow-cooked until tender and then stuffed into crispy tacos dipped in the savory broth. The Instant Pot makes it way faster but just as delicious. These tacos are messy in the best way possible!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
  • 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • Corn tortillas
  • Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in the dried chiles, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and vinegar.
  3. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 50 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 15 minutes.
  5. Remove the beef and shred it. Dip corn tortillas in the cooking broth, then fry them in a skillet, filling with shredded beef and cheese. Serve with a side of the broth for dipping!

With these amazing Instant Pot dinner recipes, bringing the bold and vibrant Mexican flavors to your table has never been easier. Whether you’re craving a hearty Mexican dish, spicy stews, or flavorful tacos, these Instant Pot Mexican recipes have you covered for any occasion.

Each recipe is packed with the essence of authentic Mexican foods and showcases how versatile your pressure cooker can be. From quick weeknight meals to impressive dinners, these Mexican food Instant Pot recipes will satisfy your cravings in no time.

So, grab your ingredients and try these pressure cooker recipes Mexican—you’ll have restaurant-quality meals with the ease of home cooking. Happy cooking with your favorite Insta Pot Mexican recipes!

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