shredded chicken for tacos recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best shredded chicken for tacos recipe

Shredded chicken for tacos is a staple in our household. It’s a recipe that I’ve learned to make from my mother, who got it from her mother. The dish has its roots in Mexican cuisine, where shredded chicken is a popular filling for tacos and other dishes.

When made with love and care, this shredded chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. My family loves it when I serve it with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice. We enjoy eating it as a main course or as a snack.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in advance. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions like family gatherings or parties. In addition to being delicious, this shredded chicken is also healthy.

It’s made with lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, making it a great option for those looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor or convenience. We often serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal. My kids adore helping me prepare the shredded chicken by shredding the cooked chicken with two forks until it’s tender and falls apart easily.

They also enjoy assisting with the seasoning process by sprinkling on some cumin and chili powder. This recipe is definitely a winner in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours as well.

Shredded Chicken for Tacos

4.8 from 1162 votes

This shredded chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked until tender. It is perfect for filling tacos, burritos, or salads.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp lime juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
4Then add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, and stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
5Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6Add the chicken breasts in a single layer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is easily shredded.
7Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.
8Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
9Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the cooking liquid and stir to coat evenly.
10Simmer over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid is slightly reduced and the chicken is heated through.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Two forks
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a splash of orange juice. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Watch Video Of How Shredded Chicken for Tacos Works

This shredded chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it’s easy to make ahead of time and reheats well.

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

When reheating the shredded chicken, add some moisture-rich ingredients like onions or tomatoes to keep it juicy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Shredded Chicken for Tacos

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to not overcook it. Also, add some moisture-rich ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes to the pot while cooking the chicken.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by cooking the chicken and refrigerating or freezing it until you’re ready to serve.

Q: What are some good ways to serve shredded chicken?

You can serve shredded chicken in tacos, salads, wraps, or as a main course with rice and steamed vegetables.

Q: Can I customize the seasoning blend?

Yes, you can customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences by adding more cumin, chili powder, or other spices of your choice.

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