Easy Shredded Chicken for Tacos –
I have not yet had the pleasure of trying this recipe, but I have heard nothing but great things about it. I have also seen it mentioned in the comments so many times that I had to try it for myself. This is something I have really been wanting to try for a while now, shredded chicken for tacos, and since I have not had it yet I am posting about. I really just want to get this recipe out there so that I can post it. 🙂
Some of you may be familiar with our recipe for Easy Shredded Chicken , a staple in our house. However, in case you aren’t, here’s a brief recap. This recipe works best in a slow cooker, which makes it a perfect weeknight dinner. However, it’s also great for guest dinners, parties, and even for a crowd.
Everyone has had the experience of breaking down a chicken. Whether it be due to a furry pet or just plain weariness, one of the most common chores is to separate the parts of the chicken. The problem is, many of the most common chicken parts are not always cut up. Here’s how to do it right.
This shredded chicken may serve as a fantastic starting point for your game-day meal —
Consider the possibilities: enchiladas, tostadas, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, chicken enchilada dip, etc.
The liquid that remains in the saucepan after the chicken has been cooked is an added treat!
Instead of throwing it out, I use it to make soups, such as this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
So, when I freeze shredded chicken, I divide it up into 1/4 cup pieces and store a handful in ziplock bags.
1/4 cup chicken creates a great, filling taco or tostada, in my opinion. In an enchilada, I’d definitely add a bit extra meat…
I add approximately 1/4 cup of broth to the bag after I’ve filled it with what I believe Jeff and I would eat in one meal, squeeze out as much air as I can, and then put it into the freezer!
I ended up with enough meat for 30 tacos/tostadas after cooking 4 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Don’t you think that’s a fairly decent return on investment?
Other cuts of chicken (e.g., thighs, drumsticks) may certainly be used; I simply like boneless, skinless breasts for most of my chicken recipes.
Shredded Chicken Made Simple
Serves | 30 |
Prep time | 3 minutes |
Cook time | 1 hour |
Total amount of time | 3 minutes and 1 hour |
Meal type | Main Dish |
Adapted slightly from a recipe found on | Free Recipes from David |
Shredded chicken is a wonderful thing to keep on hand for last-minute meals. Very adaptable — and did I say simple???
Ingredients
- 4 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless (You can use thighs if you prefer)
- aqueous (enough to cover chicken)
- 1 tblsp. cayenne pepper (I use chipotle chili powder)
- kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cumin, each 1 teaspoon
Note
I adapted this recipe from one I saw on David’s Free Recipes. “Just like the taco establishments in San Diego,” he wrote, and I was hooked! You will be as well! When I don’t feel like cooking, I prepare extra and freeze it. Also, the broth that forms while the chicken is boiling is wonderful; I use it as a basis for chicken tortilla soup.
Enjoy! –
Directions
Step 1 | |
In a large saucepan, place the chicken. Only enough water to cover the bird. Season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil. Boil for another 10 minutes, then reduce to a low heat. Continue to cook until the chicken is cooked through and falling apart (about 30-45 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to cool before shredding. |
Getting shredded chicken for tacos is a good idea, but most store-bought versions of shredded chicken are full of fat and sodium, and too much of it will make you feel sick. If youve been cooking your own meals from scratch for a while, you know how easy it is to make shredded chicken from scratch.. Read more about easy shredded chicken tacos with taco seasoning and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to shred a chicken breast?
The easiest way to shred a chicken breast is by using a meat grinder.
Can I use beef taco seasoning on chicken?
Yes, you can use beef taco seasoning on chicken.
What can be made from shredded chicken?
Chicken can be made into chicken soup, chicken salad, chicken nuggets, and more.