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Shredded Chicken

Shredded Chicken

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This versatile and quick shredded chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful meat using simple wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or comfort food, it can be customized with various seasonings and served with endless side options. Easy to cook in one pot or slow cooker, the recipe ensures minimal cleanup while offering a healthy, freezer-friendly protein base for multiple meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Protein

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Aromatics and Flavorings

  • 1 medium fresh onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic (natural), minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin, agar), for thicker sauces or broths
  • Smoked turkey bacon, diced (for BBQ style variation)
  • Fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or thyme (for herb infusion)
  • Cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili powder (for spicy kick)
  • Soy sauce (natural), ginger, and grape juice (for Asian flair)
  • Soft plant-based cheese and smoked turkey slices (for comfort classic casserole)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs and pat dry with a paper towel. Season the chicken generously with salt, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil to lock in flavor and moisture.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic (natural) and cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a savory base for the shredded chicken.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Cover and cook gently, either by simmering on the stove or baking in the oven, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Shred the Meat: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot if desired to soak up the cooking juices for enhanced flavor.
  5. Final Touches: Add optional spices or the natural gelling agent if you want a thicker sauce, stirring gently until combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately or store for later use.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier, more tender shredded chicken.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest before shredding for cleaner texture.
  • Reserve some cooking liquid to mix back with shredded chicken to keep it moist.
  • Slow cooker method can be used for easy, hands-off preparation.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper to brighten flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: shredded chicken, easy chicken recipe, versatile chicken, quick meals, meal prep chicken, healthy chicken, family-friendly chicken

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/shredded-chicken/