Shredded Chicken
Perfectly tender and juicy shredded chicken, gently poached in a savory, aromatic broth. This versatile recipe is a fantastic base for tacos, sandwiches, salads, and casseroles. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the ultimate meal prep staple.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer
- a.Add the halved onion, smashed garlic cloves, and bay leaf. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the chicken by at least one inch. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- 2
Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat
- a.As soon as it boils, immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Avoid a rapid boil, as this can result in tough, rubbery chicken.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, transferring it to a cutting board or large bowl. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, until it's cool enough to handle. Discard the onion, garlic, and bay leaf from the broth. Reserve the broth for later use.
- 4
Shred the chicken using your preferred method
- a.For a chunkier texture, use two forks to pull the meat apart. For a finer, faster shred, place the warm chicken in the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and mix on low for 15-30 seconds.
- 5
Step 5
- a.To ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful, toss the shredded meat with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the reserved cooking broth. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender chicken, maintain a gentle simmer. A rolling boil will cause the muscle fibers to seize up, making the chicken tough.
- 2Don't discard the cooking liquid! It's a flavorful, light chicken broth. Strain it and use it in soups, sauces, or for cooking grains like rice and quinoa.
- 3A stand mixer with a paddle attachment is the fastest way to shred chicken. A hand mixer also works well.
- 4This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Double the batch and freeze half for future meals.
- 5Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They may require an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Mexican-Inspired
Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of oregano to the broth. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shredded chicken before serving.
Italian InspiredItalian-Inspired
Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil to the broth. Toss the shredded chicken with pesto for an easy pasta or sandwich filling.
Slow Cooker MethodSlow Cooker Method
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Shred directly in the slow cooker.
Instant Pot MethodInstant Pot Method
Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to 'Sealing'. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow a 5-minute natural pressure release before quick releasing the remaining pressure.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is a prime source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Supports Weight Management
The high protein content promotes satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied for longer, which can aid in controlling overall calorie intake.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), which are crucial for energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation.
Low in Fat and Carbs
As a lean protein cooked without added fats, this shredded chicken is naturally low in fat and carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary plans, including low-carb and low-fat diets.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this shredded chicken (about 1 cup) contains approximately 195-210 calories, making it a low-calorie, high-protein option.