The Best Homemade Shredded Chicken Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This shredded chicken recipe is a game-changer for quick, tasty meals, and it’s so easy you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
- Versatile & fuss-free – Use it in tacos, salads, or sandwiches, and it always turns out juicy and flavorful.
- Meal prep hero – Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ve got ready-to-go protein for busy days.
- Simple ingredients, big taste – With just chicken, spices, and a little love, it’s budget-friendly but never boring.
Recipe
Intro:
Shredded chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in tacos, salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. This simple recipe guarantees tender, juicy chicken every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions:
- In a pot, bring chicken broth (or water) to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts or thighs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add bay leaves, cumin, or paprika to the cooking liquid.
- Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
- Pot with lid
- Forks or stand mixer
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
This shredded chicken recipe is packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165 kcal |
| Protein | 31 g |
| Fat | 3.6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my shredded chicken with simple side dishes like roasted veggies or fluffy rice, and I always add fun toppings like avocado or shredded cheese. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten it up, while a squeeze of lime adds a zesty kick. Whether it’s tacos, salads, or sandwiches, there’s so much you can do to make it your own!
Side Dishes Options
When you’ve got tender, flavorful shredded chicken ready to go, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving it with fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes—they soak up all the delicious juices perfectly. For something lighter, I’ll toss together a crisp green salad or roast some veggies like broccoli or zucchini. Warm tortillas or crusty bread make it feel hearty, while cornbread adds a sweet, Southern touch. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll whip up some coleslaw or a tangy pasta salad. The options are endless, and every combo feels like a win!
Toppings and Garnishes
To really make your shredded chicken shine, don’t skip the toppings and garnishes—they’re the finishing touch that takes it from good to *amazing*. I love adding fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime for a bright, zesty kick. Creamy avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream add richness, while diced tomatoes or pickled jalapeños bring texture and tang. For crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed tortilla chips. If I’m feeling adventurous, I drizzle on a little sriracha or homemade BBQ sauce. These small additions make every bite exciting, and I guarantee they’ll elevate your meal!
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