Shredded Chicken

When you think of comfort food, nothing beats Shredded Chicken. It’s a dish that takes me right back to family dinners where the aroma of tender, juicy chicken fills the air. I remember Sundays spent in the kitchen with my mom, patiently waiting for the chicken to cook while we shared stories and laughter. The best part? The moment we’d shred the chicken, seeing the moist strands fall apart effortlessly, ready to be transformed into our favorite meals. Whether you’re making tacos, sandwiches, or a simple chicken salad, Shredded Chicken is incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating delicious memories that last a lifetime.

Shredded Chicken Shopping List

When it comes to making Shredded Chicken, the key ingredients work together beautifully to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The main players are the chicken, of course, which provides that juicy base, and a mix of spices that elevate the flavor profile. Then there’s the broth, which keeps the chicken moist and adds richness to the dish. Together, these ingredients create a fantastic meal that shines in so many recipes.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, approx. 2 to 2 ½ pounds: This is the star of the show. The chicken is juicy, tender, and perfect for shredding.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and helps to brown the chicken beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors.
• ½ teaspoon EACH garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika: This trio provides a savory depth and smoky undertone to the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon oregano (optional): Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a Mediterranean touch.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: A pinch of pepper adds just the right amount of bite.
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth (plus more as needed): This keeps the chicken moist while cooking and adds flavor.

Shredded Chicken Instructions

Cooking Shredded Chicken is as easy as pie, and I’m excited to share the steps with you. Whether you choose to use a skillet, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, the process is simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

1. First, take the chicken breasts and place them on a flat surface. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely. This is an important step for achieving that lovely golden color!
2. Next, whisk together the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your seasoning mix, and it’s packed with flavor. Season both sides of the chicken generously.
3. Now, heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes without moving it, allowing it to brown beautifully on the bottom. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when it releases easily from the pan.
4. Carefully flip the chicken over and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. This step is key as it traps the steam, helping the chicken cook through while keeping it moist.
5. Cook for an additional 7 to 14 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees. If needed, add more broth a little at a time if the liquid evaporates too quickly.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains juicy.
7. Now, it’s time to shred! You can use two forks to pull apart the chicken or place it in the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Mix on low speed for about 20 seconds until it’s perfectly shredded. Stir in any remaining juices from the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. If you want to use a pressure cooker, add the seasoned chicken and chicken broth to the pot. Set it to “sealing” and cook on high for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release. After that, perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
9. For the slow cooker method, place the seasoned chicken in a lightly greased slow cooker, pour the broth over it, and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s reached 160 degrees before shredding.

Variations to Try

While the basic Shredded Chicken recipe is fantastic on its own, there are numerous delicious variations you can explore to keep things interesting. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Add Different Spices: Play with the seasoning! Try adding cumin or chili powder for a Southwest twist.
• Use Sauces: Toss your shredded chicken with sauces like barbecue, buffalo, or salsa verde for an instant flavor boost.
• Make a Casserole: Combine shredded chicken with pasta, vegetables, and cheese for a hearty casserole dish.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and onions to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
• Wrap It Up: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for wraps, quesadillas, or tacos for a flavorful meal.

Accompaniments for Shredded Chicken

This multi-purpose Shredded Chicken can be served in so many delightful ways! Here are some ideas to inspire your meal:

• On a Bed of Rice: Serve the shredded chicken over white or brown rice, drizzled with extra broth.
• Tacos: Use it as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite fixings like avocado, cheese, and salsa.
• In a Salad: Add the shredded chicken to a mixed greens salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• With Sandwiches: Create delicious sandwiches or sliders using the shredded chicken and your choice of sauces.
• For Meal Prep: Store in an airtight container for easy meals throughout the week, warming it as needed.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Shredded Chicken is a truly versatile dish that can elevate any meal with its tender texture and rich flavor. I encourage you to try making it at home, as it’s not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or feeding the family, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and let the delicious aromas fill your home!

Shredded Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Shredded Chicken is juicy, tender, and perfect for countless recipes. Whether you're making tacos, salads, or sandwiches, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to be a hit. You'll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Instant Pot
• Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs approx. 2 to 2 ½ pounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth (plus more as needed)

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken breasts on a flat surface and pat dry with paper towels. Whisk together the seasonings in a bowl, then season both sides of the chicken. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add chicken, and cook for 5 minutes until golden. Flip the chicken, add broth, cover, and cook until it reaches 160 degrees. Let rest, then shred.
• For the pressure cooker, add chicken and broth, cook on high for 10 minutes, natural release, then quick release. Shred after resting.
• In the slow cooker, add seasoned chicken and broth, cook on low for 5 to 7 hours until tender. Shred after resting.

Notes

• Tip 1: Play with seasonings! Add spices you love for a unique flair.
• Tip 2: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Tip 3: Freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 3 months.
• Tip 4: Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth.

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