How to Make Easy Sharptailed Grouse Tacos (Instant Pot Recipe)

One of my favorite ways to cook sharptailed grouse is about as simple and satisfying as it gets: taco meat. Every September when I return from sharptail country, my family is already asking when taco night is happening. It’s become a tradition we all look forward to.

This recipe was inspired by Hank Shaw’s turkey leg taco meat and my friend Dave Veldman’s sharptail barbacoa. Both are excellent, and I highly recommend them if you’re looking for a more refined approach. But me? I like to keep things simple and minimalist in the kitchen. This is my version—straightforward, forgiving, and absolutely delicious.

Sharptail Grouse Taco Recipe at a Glance

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 13 minutes + 15 min natural release

• Total Time: ~40 minutes

• Method: Instant Pot (or slow cooker)

• Main Ingredients: Grouse breasts & legs, taco seasoning, chicken broth, diced tomatoes
  

Can You Cook Sharptailed Grouse in an Instant Pot?

Yes — and it works beautifully. The Instant Pot tenderizes both the breasts and the legs while locking in moisture. A slow cooker will also work, but you’ll need to adjust for longer cook times.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 4–6 sharptailed grouse (breasts and legs)

• 2 packets McCormick chicken taco seasoning

• 1 cup chicken broth (Better Than Bouillon works well)

• 1 can diced tomatoes (I like the taco-style variety)
  

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, black beans, tortillas, cilantro, onion, lettuce, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce.

Equipment

• Instant Pot (or slow cooker)

• Trivet insert (optional)

• Cutting board

• Shredding tools (bear claws or forks)

• Cast iron skillet
  

How to Make Sharptailed Grouse Taco Meat

Step 1: Prep the Pot

• Mix or use pre-made 1 cup chicken broth.

• Place the trivet in the Instant Pot (optional). If not using a trivet, pour half the broth into the bottom of the pot.
  

Step 2: Layer the Meat

• Place breasts on the bottom, legs on top (if using).

• Pour remaining broth over the meat.

• Sprinkle taco seasoning packets over the meat.
  

Step 3: Pressure Cook

• Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high for 13 minutes.

• Let it naturally release for at least 15 minutes (don’t quick release).
  

Step 4: Shred the Grouse

• Remove meat to a cutting board.

• Shred breasts with bear claws or forks.

• Pick thighs and legs clean (worth the effort for that extra meat).
  

Step 5: Return to the Pot

• Place shredded meat back in the broth.

• Stir well and simmer briefly if there’s excess liquid but keep some liquid in the pot, the meat will soak it up.

• Refrigerate overnight if prepping ahead.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet.

• Add shredded meat and a can of diced tomatoes (with juice).

• Simmer until liquid cooks off and meat is ready.

  
  

What Toppings Go Best with Sharptailed Grouse Tacos?

• Simple bowl: Meat, black beans, cheese, and hot sauce.

• Classic tacos: Tortillas, cilantro, onion, lettuce, salsa.

• Burrito bowl: Meat over rice with beans and fresh veggies.
  

Final Thoughts

This recipe proves that simple sharptailed grouse recipes can still be packed with flavor. With just a few pantry staples and an Instant Pot, you’ll have wild game tacos the whole family will love.

If you give it a try, let me know how it turns out — and feel free to share your own upland bird recipes in the comments below!