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How to Make Shredded Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This shredded chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked gently in a seasoned broth before being shredded into perfect strands. It’s a simple, versatile base ideal for salads, tacos, soups, or sandwiches, delivering flavor without fuss or excess fat.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Chicken and Broth Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • Parsley sprigs
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 6 cups water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breast into a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the smashed garlic cloves, salt, whole black peppercorns, parsley sprigs, and bay leaves around the chicken.
  2. Add Water: Pour 6 cups of water over the chicken and seasonings, ensuring the chicken is fully covered by the liquid.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let the chicken cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or until it is no longer pink in the center, about 8 to 15 minutes depending on the breast thickness.
  4. Remove and Rest: Take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside to rest for 5 minutes. Drain the cooking liquid and reserve if desired for use in other recipes or broth.
  5. Shred the Chicken: Place the rested chicken on a cutting board. Using two forks, hold the chicken steady with one and use the other to pull the meat apart into thin, small strands until the entire breast is shredded to your preferred texture.

Notes

  • Cooking time varies based on thickness of chicken breasts; use a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
  • Reserve the cooking broth to use as a flavorful base for soups or sauces.
  • For added flavor, consider seasoning the shredded chicken with your choice of herbs or spices after shredding.
  • This recipe is naturally low fat and gluten free.
  • Use fresh parsley or cilantro as garnish to brighten dishes made with this shredded chicken.