Shredded Chicken

This shredded chicken is a perfect substitute for rotisserie chicken! It’s incredibly flavorful and moist, and you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or a combination of both! Versions for stovetop, crock-pot, and instant pot are all included.

I love using this shredded chicken in any recipe that calls for it! Some of our favorites are Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas, Chicken Waldorf Salad, or tossed in with pasta salads!

Before You Get Started

A few tips to help you get started!

CHICKEN: This recipe works great with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Or use a combination of the two. I like using both because the thighs add a richer, meatier flavor.

SEASONINGS: I really enjoy the combination of seasonings in this recipe, as it creates a perfect flavor blend that works well in various dishes! The smoked paprika isn’t overpowering, but you can replace it with regular paprika if you prefer. Take note, it will change the flavor profile.

3 COOKING VERSIONS: You can choose to cook your chicken on the stovetop for the fastest results, or if you prefer not to stand by the stove, try using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot instead! All three methods produce incredibly juicy and flavorful shredded chicken that’s perfect for any recipe.

How To Make Shredded Chicken On The Stovetop

MIX THE SEASONING: In a small bowl, mix up the seasonings, then sprinkle all over the chicken pieces.

***KITCHEN TIP: You can make a bigger batch of this seasoning mix and store it in a mason jar to use whenever you like!

COOK THE CHICKEN: Place the chicken in a hot skillet with a little oil. Brown slightly, then flip and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 7-8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked and shreds easily. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken breast or thighs.

***COOKING TIP: Overbrowning may make a thick crust on the chicken, and that part may be harder to shred.

SHRED: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and use two forks to shred it. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken. For maximum juiciness, stir in some of the cooking liquid with the shredded chicken!

***KITCHEN TIP: Save the extra cooking liquid to use in other recipes using chicken broth.

How To Make Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

MIX THE SEASONING: In a small bowl, mix up the seasonings, then sprinkle all over the chicken pieces.

***KITCHEN TIP: You can make a bigger batch of this seasoning mix and store it in a mason jar to use whenever you like!

COOK THE CHICKEN: Place the chicken in the bottom of a slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2.5 hours or until the chicken is cooked and shreds easily. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken breast or thighs.

SHRED: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and use two forks to shred it. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken. For maximum juiciness, stir in some of the cooking liquid with the shredded chicken!

***KITCHEN TIP: Save the extra cooking liquid to use in other recipes using chicken broth.

How To Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken

MIX THE SEASONING: In a small bowl, mix up the seasonings, then sprinkle all over the chicken pieces.

***KITCHEN TIP: You can make a bigger batch of this seasoning mix and store it in a mason jar to use whenever you like!

COOK THE CHICKEN: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of an instant pot. Place the chicken in the instant pot. Cover with the instant pot lid and set to sealing. Cook on high for 8 minutes and do a 10-15 minute natural release.

***COOKING TIP: A natural release is crucial; otherwise, the chicken may become tough instead of tender.

SHRED: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and use two forks to shred it. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken. For maximum juiciness, stir in some of the cooking liquid with the shredded chicken!

***KITCHEN TIP: Save the extra cooking liquid to use in other recipes using chicken broth.

How To Store Shredded Chicken?

Having this shredded chicken on hand will be so handy, especially if you meal prep!! Place in a storage container with some of the cooking liquid and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Can You Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, you can use either the stovetop or instant pot version. The slow cooker method is not recommended for frozen chicken because it doesn’t raise the center to a safe temperature quickly enough.

STOVETOP: Follow the directions and be sure to simmer on low heat. Resist the urge to raise the heat too much, as it can make the chicken tough. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

INSTANT POT: Follow directions and cook for 10-12 minutes, and up to 15 if the chicken is thick or frozen together. It is still very important to do a natural release.

Recipes Using Shredded Chicken

• Shredded chicken sandwiches and wraps (just toss the meat with buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.)
• Salads! Add it to this mediterranean orzo pasta salad for a great lunch option. Use it in this strawberry cobb salad or asian chicken salad.
• Chicken Salad: Use it in my favorite chicken salad recipe, quick and easy chicken salad, or chicken waldorf salad.
• Casseroles: chicken tamale pie, chicken pot pie with biscuit topping, white chicken enchiladas, or this chicken florentine pasta casserole.

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