Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe [Seasoned]

Introducing this effortless seasoned Easy Shredded Chicken recipe infused with a melody of flavorful spices. The chicken is oven-baked to perfection, ensuring it turns out tender and juicy. In just 45 minutes, you'll have a versatile protein-packed ingredient that's a perfect addition to soups, salads, tacos, and everything in between. Alternatively, you can savor its succulence one forkful at a time.

Why Make Shredded Chicken?

I'm thrilled to share this basic seasoned Shredded Chicken Recipe with you all. My childhood love for chicken, especially chicken wings, has influenced my passion for creating delicious chicken dishes. I have fond memories of enjoying well-seasoned, crispy chicken from Popeyes with my Grandmother.

Now, on my healthier food journey, I take pleasure in making my own flavorful chicken recipes. Creating the perfect tender + juicy shredded chicken has been a long-time goal, and if you've been following Orchids + Sweet Tea, you know I have a deep appreciation for all things chicken, including these mouthwatering Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders and these Sticky Gochujang Chicken Wings or this Jerk Whole Roast Chicken

Sometimes, simplicity is the secret sauce, and this shredded chicken recipe embraces just that. It's a versatile, speedy creation that brings you back to the basics. Yet, don't let its straightforward nature fool you—beyond its enticing flavor, it's a smart move for health-conscious choices, packed with protein that adds both depth to your dishes and nutritional goodness. So, if you're looking to keep things uncomplicated yet delectably wholesome, this shredded chicken has got you covered.

What is Shredded Chicken?

Basically shredded chicken or also known as pulled chicken is just the process of ripping chicken apart into a shred-like texture which works in many recipes like sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and more! It's completely tender, flavorful, and versatile, shredded chicken boasts a succulent quality that's hard to resist. Whether infused into soups, pasta, gracing salads, or adorning tacos, its adaptability is unmatched!

How To Make Easy Shredded Chicken

There are just a few straightforward steps to this recipe. You will begin by giving the chicken some love with seasoning and marinating, then let it work its magic in the oven. Afterward, it's ready to transform into delicious shreds.

Ingredients

The awesome thing about this shredded chicken recipe is that most of the ingredients are household staples. Plus, it’s easy to mix and match ingredients with whatever you have on hand, so there’s no need to make an extra trip to the store.

Here's what you will need for this shredded chicken recipe -

• Organic chicken breast: The heart of the dish, tender and lean.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Infuses moisture and flavor during cooking.
• Sea salt: Enhances taste and seasoning.
• Black pepper: Adds a dash of zesty heat.
• Smoked paprika: Lends a captivating smoky depth.
• Garlic powder: Elevates savory notes.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle aromatic undertones.
• Dried parsley: Provides a touch of herbal brightness.
• Dried oregano: Introduces a hint of earthy warmth.
• Dried basil: Evokes a sweet, herbal essence.
• Dried thyme: Brings a savory, earthy aroma.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave a gentle kick of heat.

How To Know If Your Chicken Is Fully Cooked?

Ever wondered how long to bake chicken breasts at 400°? To know when your chicken breasts are fully cooked at 400° here are some tips -

• Time: Bake chicken breasts at 400°F for around 30-35 minutes. Don't forget to flip halfway through!
• Color and Juices: Cut into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear and the meat is opaque with no pinkness, it's likely cooked.
• Temperature: For certainty, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast.
• Resting: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside for a tastier result.

How To Shred Chicken?

Shredding chicken is a breeze! After you've cooked the chicken to tender perfection, you can use one of the methods below to shred it!

Forks:

• For this method, you would need two forks. If using this method, place your cooked chicken breast onto a plate or cutting board and use both forks to separate the chicken meat and 'shred' as you separate. Continue doing this until all of your chicken is shredded.

Stand Mixer:

• If you're looking to avoid using arm strength, then the method of a stand mixer might be just for you. This is by far the fastest and easiest way to shred chicken, and you simply place all of your cooked chicken breasts in the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the paddle attachment and mix on low. In just 15-20 seconds, you’ll have shredded chicken. That easy!

Why You Will LOVE This Shredded Chicken Recipe

• It's a flavor explosion-- Smoky, herby, and downright addictive!
• Tender melt-in-your-mouth chicken
• A great addition to weeknight meals + laidback weekend dinners.
• Perfect for meal prepping!
• Super customizable + protein-packed!
• Did I mention, it’s just delicious? Both kids + adults approve!

What Can I Use Shredded Chicken For?

The possibilities are endless with shredded chicken, here are a few ideas-

• Pasta Dishes: Mix it into Creamy Tuscan 'Marry Me' Chicken or Weeknight Creamy Chicken Alfredo , Oven-baked Garlic Chicken Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe, zesty marinara, or pesto pasta for a protein-packed twist.
• Tacos: Pile it onto soft or crispy shells, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a delicious taco feast. Try my Baked Buffalo Chicken Tacos
• Burgers: Elevate your burger game by layering tender shreds onto your favorite buns, complemented by toppings and sauces.
• Sandwiches: Create mouthwatering sandwiches by adding shredded chicken to wraps, subs, or paninis for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Pizza Toppings: Sprinkle it over pizza along with your preferred ingredients, and watch your pizza come to life with a burst of savory goodness, I love adding it to this simple Herbed Butter Tomato Pizza for some extra protein!
• Salads: Turn salads into hearty meals by tossing in shredded chicken. It adds protein and a satisfying dimension to your greens. It would be a perfect addition to this Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
• Buddha Bowls: Assemble nourishing Buddha bowls with a base of grains or greens, then layer on colorful vegetables, grains, and your shredded chicken for a complete, balanced meal!

Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe Q + A's

Delicious Chicken Recipes to Try Next!

• Baked Buffalo Chicken Tacos [Dairy-Free]
• Sticky Orange Chicken Popcorn Chicken
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
• Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Soup
• Jerk Whole Roast Chicken
• Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
• Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken
• Authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you make this Shredded Chicken or any other recipe from us, be sure to tag us on Instagram at #Orchidsandsweettea so that we can share the love!

Easy Shredded Chicken Recipe [Seasoned]

August 17, 2023 •

By Shanika

5 from 3 votes

Introducing this effortless seasoned Easy Shredded Chicken recipe infused with a melody of flavorful spices. The chicken is oven-baked to perfection, ensuring it turns out tender and juicy. In just 45 minutes, you'll have a versatile protein-packed ingredient that's a perfect addition to soups, salads, tacos, and everything in between.

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 35 minutes mins

Total Time: 45 minutes mins

Serves: 4 servings

Units:

US Customary|Metric

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Ingredients

CHICKEN:

• 2 lbs. organic chicken breast
• 1-2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional

Instructions

TO PREPARE + SEASON CHICKEN:

• In a large bowl, add your freshly cleaned + rinsed chicken along with olive oil + seasonings: salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano, basil, + thyme, mixing everything together until chicken is fully coated. NOTE: I like to poke small slits in the centers of breasts to ensure that they cook through evenly. Totally optional!
• NOTE: Best when marinated for a while! To do so: Add coated chicken to a securely sealed ziplock bag and place in the refrigerator for 3 hours (minimum). Best if marinaded overnight. When ready to use, let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

BAKE THE CHICKEN:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Line seasoned chicken breast (side by side) unto prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of room in between each one.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside. NOTE: Be sure to turn the breasts unto their opposite side halfway through the baking time.
• Remove from oven and let them cool until safe to handle.

SHRED THE CHICKEN [TWO OPTIONS]:

• Forks: For this method, you would need two forks. If using this method, place your cooked chicken breast onto a plate or cutting board and use both forks to separate the chicken meat and 'shred' as you separate. Continue doing this until all of your chicken is shredded.
• Stand Mixer: If you're looking to avoid using arm strength, then the method of a stand mixer might be just for you. This is by far the fastest and easiest way to shred chicken, and you simply place all of your cooked chicken breasts in the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the paddle attachment and mix on low. In just 15-20 seconds, you’ll have shredded chicken. That easy!
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator (once fully cooled) until ready to use or incorporate in your favorite recipe!
• Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

• STORAGE: Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. 
• TO FREEZE: Place shredded chicken in a freezer-safe zip bag (or individual ones for portion sizes)  labeled with the date. Remove any excess air from the bag, seal it, and freeze it for up to 4 months.
• SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amount of seasoning used slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
• CHICKEN PIECES: It's best to shred chicken breasts for the most amount of meat and ease, however, you can also do this with chicken tenderloins, thighs, and drumsticks (just remove the bones after baked and shred per usual).

Nutrition

Calories: 299kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 846mg | Potassium: 887mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 337IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 2mg

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