Oven Shredded Chicken Recipe
Having shredded chicken on hand is a time-saving and nutritious way to add flavor and protein to make a quick dinner like a salad or soup. This oven-shredded chicken recipe requires only a few ingredients and is easy to prepare, making it a great option for easy meal prep and planning.
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When making shredded chicken, using the oven is a great way and hands-off option, especially if you’re already utilizing it for other cooking purposes. There are various methods to prepare shredded chicken, but this one can save you time and effort.
🤍Why you will love this recipe
- It’s an easy shredded chicken recipe that requires just a few simple ingredients.
- It’s a great recipe! Shredded chicken that has been oven-cooked is very convenient, as it requires minimal attention once cooked.
Here is what you will need
This is an overview of the ingredients and steps to make this recipe; scroll down for a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions.
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🛒Ingredients
- Bonelessskinless chicken breasts
- Water
- Salt and pepper
🥄Equipment
How to make delicious shredded chicken in the oven
Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
STEP 1: Place chicken into a covered oven-proof casserole dish. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the dish.
STEP 2: Cover the dish and place it into a preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
STEP 3: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the chicken breasts.
Note: Cook time can vary the internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165 degrees f. Use a good meat thermometer like this one from Thermoworks for an accurate reading.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Boneless skinless chicken breasts – These are the easiest to use for shredded chicken. You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs or bone-in chicken breasts. But keep in mind that cooking time will vary.
Water – A little bit of salt and pepper on the chicken adds enough flavor to the chicken, but if you prefer a little more flavor, you can replace the water with chicken stock.
How to store shredded chicken
Once the chicken has been shredded and cooled to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
You can also freeze the leftover chicken in an airtight container or bag for up to 4 months and defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.
Recipe variations
Mediterranean Shredded Chicken – Infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors by adding any combination of lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder and basil. This works well with Italian or Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as pasta or salads.
Mexican shredded chicken – Add any combination of a half teaspoon of chili powder, a pinch of cumin, chopped fresh cilantro, or lime juice. This version adds extra flavor and tastes great in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, or any Mexican-inspired dish.
Serving suggestions
Shredded chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of delicious dishes such as chicken tacos, salads, soup, pasta, quesadillas, chicken salad, pizza and so much more!
💡Top Tips
- Freeze-shredded cooked chicken in portion sizes for convenience.
- Allow the chicken to rest before shredding it.
- Store the leftover cooking liquid (broth) for gravy or soups.
As long as the dish is covered, it should retain moisture. But you can check the dish after 10 minutes of cooking, add water if it looks like water has evaporated.
You can add some chicken broth, cooking juice or olive oil to the chicken before freezing it.
Yes, you can use your stand mixture at low speed with or without the paddle attachment to shred the chicken breasts.
Are you too tired to cook dinner?
If you’re feeling uninspired when it’s time to cook dinner, this free guide will help you make a quick and healthy dinner with ingredients you have in your kitchen.
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts
- water
- sea salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
- Place the chicken into an ovenproof dish along with enough water to cover the bottom. Sprinkle the chicken with sea salt and black pepper
- Cover the dish and place it in the oven for 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature fo 165 degrees.
- Once the chicken is cooked throgh, remove it from the oven and let it cool off for 5 to 10 minutes before shredding it with two forks.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and can vary based on cooking methods and ingredients used
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