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easy shredded chicken recipe

Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe

Cora Garcia
Imagine a dinner table filled with the scent of warm, flavorful chicken. Picture it nestled in a soft tortilla, piled high on a fluffy bun, or mixed into a vibrant salad. The beauty of easy shredded chicken lies in its versatility.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 149 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • First, make sure your chicken is thawed if you pulled it from the freezer. For quicker cooking, cut the chicken into uniform pieces; however, they can also go straight into your pot as is.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

  • In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces. You want every bit of the chicken coated. This is where the flavor magic begins!

Step 3: Heat the Pan

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the seasoned chicken. Sear it for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s lightly browned. This step locks in juices, and the aroma will have you drooling.

Step 4: Add Stock

  • Once browned, pour in the chicken stock. This broth adds moisture and flavor as the chicken cooks through. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Thoroughly

  • Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Occasionally check it, steaming away for more flavor!

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

  • After the chicken registers at least 165°F (the safe cooking temperature for chicken), transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks (or your hands, if you’re brave!) to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 7: Rest the Chicken

  • Let the shredded chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle, keeping every bite flavorful and succulent.

Notes

  • Chicken Breasts vs. Thighs: I love using thighs for their tenderness, but breasts are leaner. Choose based on your preference.
  • Low-Sodium Stock: This is key to managing sodium intake, allowing you to season to your liking.
  • Seasoning Variations: Feel free to mix this up! Add a teaspoon of cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition

Calories: 149kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 11gFat: 10.9gSaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 80mgVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 4mg
Keyword Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe
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