Massage the spice rub over the brisket pieces and refrigerate overnight.
Place onions in the bottom of a 6QT Instant Pot. Place the trivet over the onions and add the water to the bottom of the pot. Place the brisket on the trivet.
Secure the lid and select MANUAL for 80 minutes.
Allow the pressure to naturally release for 20 minutes. Release any remaining pressure.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
Place the brisket in an air fryer basket and brush with barbecue sauce. Air fry 5-7 minutes or until browned. Rest 10 minutes before cutting.
Video
Notes
Place the brisket fat side up on top of the onions in the Instant Pot to protect the meat from sticking to the bottom of the pot and also to infuse the fat into the meat.
To use the oven instead of the air fryer, turn the broiler up to high (500°F) and place the brisket under the broiler for 5 minutes or until browned. Rest 10 minutes before cutting.
Add cut-up potatoes and carrots, too!
Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasonings and sauce—for a brisket, there’s no such thing as too much!