How to Make Shredded Chicken (Shredded Chicken Recipe)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
3 hrs
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Total Time
3 hrs 10 mins
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Servings
12
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Calories
278 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
How to Make Shredded Chicken (Shredded Chicken Recipe)
Description
How to Make Shredded Chicken focuses on cooking seasoned boneless chicken thighs or breasts gently in chicken broth, allowing the meat to become tender enough to shred. The process starts with searing the chicken pieces in olive oil, which develops a light crust and enhances flavor. Then, the chicken simmers partially covered, maintaining moisture and softness while absorbing the broth and seasoning blend.
The resulting shredded chicken is moist and mildly flavored, suitable as a versatile protein for many recipes. Using different seasoning blends such as Cajun or taco spice allows customization according to taste and cuisine preference.
This recipe produces about 12 servings and is practical for meal prep. The shredded chicken can be frozen in portions for future use, making it convenient to incorporate into quick meals or to top dishes without starting from scratch each time.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken thigh or chicken breasts, boneless
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- seasoning blend optional, 1-2 tablespoons, e.g. Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning, chili powder, garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Toss the boneless chicken thighs (or breasts) with the olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Make sure to get them nice and coated.
- Heat a large pot to medium heat. I used my Dutch oven for this. Add the chicken thighs and sear them 2-3 minutes per side, stirring them up a bit as you go.
- Pour in the chicken broth and reduce the heat to a simmer. Top the pot with the cover just slightly askew and cook low and slow for 15 minutes. You can also transfer to a slow cooker or crockpot and cook on LOW with the lid on for 1 hour. You can simmer longer if desired, but chicken breast may become dry. Chicken thighs can simmer longer, up to 3 hours (add more stock if needed).
- When the chicken is super fork tender, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Shred the chicken with forks and enjoy.
Notes
- This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, ideal for batch cooking.
- Frozen portions store well for future use, helping with meal planning.
- Seasoning blends such as Cajun, taco, or chili powder can personalize the flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 278 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 278kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 111mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 163mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 310mg | 7% |
| Vitamin A | 1245IU | 25% |
| Vitamin C | 1.4mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 15mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1.4mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.