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Delicious shredded chicken cooked in various styles for quick and easy meals.

Easy Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is the ultimate kitchen hack—quick to make, easy to store, and endlessly versatile. Whether you poach, slow cook, or pressure cook, this meal prep MVP is ready for tacos, salads, soups, and so much more.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main, Prep
Cuisine Universal
Servings 4 cups
Calories 165 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot or Slow Cooker
  • Forks or Hand Mixer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder optional

Instructions
 

  • Place chicken in a large pot or slow cooker. Add broth, salt, and optional garlic powder.
  • Poach on the stovetop for 15–20 minutes or cook in a slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours, until chicken is fully cooked.
  • Let chicken cool slightly, then shred using two forks or a hand mixer on low speed.
  • Toss shredded chicken with a little of the cooking liquid to keep it juicy.
  • Use immediately or store in airtight containers for later use.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for richer flavor or breasts for leaner texture. This method works with rotisserie chicken too. Label and freeze in portions for quick meals. Shredded chicken is perfect in tacos, soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalProtein: 25gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 280mgVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword chicken, meal prep, Shredded Chicken
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