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Shredded Chicken

Shredded Chicken


  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This shredded chicken recipe is quick, versatile, and delicious, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Using simple, fresh ingredients, it yields tender and juicy shredded chicken that can be used in tacos, salads, sandwiches, and many other dishes. Flavorful yet light, this dish is ideal for a healthy, satisfying meal that keeps well and adapts easily to various flavor profiles.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Seasonings and Aromatics

  • 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • Fresh cilantro, parsley, or thyme, chopped (about 2 tbsp)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the boneless chicken breasts or thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures even cooking and better seasoning absorption.
  2. Season and Sear: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown to lock in juices and develop a slight crust.
  3. Cook Gently: Add the chopped onions and a splash of apple cider vinegar to the pan. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken simmer until fully cooked and tender, around 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cool slightly. Use two forks or a stand mixer to shred the meat finely. Toss the shredded chicken with the pan’s cooking juices and freshly chopped herbs for moisture and flavor.
  5. Serve or Store: Enjoy the shredded chicken warm in wraps, salads, or bowls. Alternatively, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container to keep it fresh for later meals.

Notes

  • Use warm water if poaching the chicken to keep it tender.
  • Do not overcook; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for juiciness.
  • Let the chicken rest before shredding to make the process easier and less messy.
  • Toss shredded chicken with broth or pan juices to enhance juiciness.
  • For chunkier texture, shred the chicken with your hands instead of forks.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Searing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 oz (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: shredded chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, meal prep chicken, versatile chicken, quick chicken dish, low fat chicken