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Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This shredded chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken perfect for a variety of dishes. Quickly seasoned and poached in a skillet with aromatic onion and bay leaf, the chicken is then shredded to perfection, making it an ideal protein addition to salads, tacos, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken breast (sliced or pounded to ½ inch thickness)

Seasonings

  • 2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ white onion, diced (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or water)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Evenly season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper to infuse flavor throughout.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust, which helps lock in moisture.
  3. Add aromatics and poach: Add diced onion and bay leaf to the pan along with the chicken broth. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and poach the chicken for 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked and tender.
  4. Shred the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and shred it using two forks or place it in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed to shred quickly and evenly.
  5. Mix with cooking liquid: Pour some of the cooking liquid from the skillet into the shredded chicken to add moisture and enhance flavor. Toss to combine well.
  6. Serve or store: Serve immediately in your favorite recipes or store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Notes

  • For different cooking methods, consider baking or slow cooking the chicken breasts before shredding.
  • Using chicken broth instead of water intensifies the flavor of the shredded chicken.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
  • Shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.