| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | PIONEER NATURAL RESOURCES CO |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001038357 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-13245 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-2702753 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 777 Hidden Ridge |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Irving |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75038 |
| City Area Code | (972) |
| Local Phone Number | 444-9001 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | PXD |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
