Have you ever found yourself in a dinner dilemma, desperately wanting to eat healthy, tasty food, but short on time? Or just not in the mood to cook up a storm? Well, these easy shredded chicken recipes are here to save the day!
After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. We get it! That’s where shredded chicken recipes step in as your lifesaver. It is quick to prepare, easy to customize, and most of all – deliciously satisfying. And did we mention you can always shred chicken on meal prep day and freeze it? It defrosts quickly, goes well in most dishes, and can even be made in a slow cooker.
Here are 10 easy shredded chicken recipes which we think you’ll love.
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Shredded Chicken Taco
If you are short on time, the classic Shredded Chicken Tacos are the perfect go-to. They are super easy to prepare – just shred some chicken, warm up some tortillas, and add your favorite toppings. Personally, we’re fans of the traditional things; avo, tomato, and cilantro. But whatever you have on hand can be thrown on top and you’re good to go.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders offer something different to the classic chicken salad sandwich. With tender shredded chicken coated (ok…smothered) in barbecue sauce, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser. They’re also really quick to pull together on a weeknight, and are great for summer weekend lunches too. Simply pile the chicken onto mini buns, add a slice of cheese if you like, and you have your portable meal ready. Pickles, coleslaw, and fries are all optional (but encouraged!).
Shredded Chicken Tostadas
Shredded Chicken Tostadas are a delicious and satisfying meal option for a busy weeknight. We like to think of them as the best of both worlds; tacos and pizza! These tostadas are customizable to suit any taste preference, making them perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Everyone can build their own, and the crunchy texture is sure to win people over.
Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
Another of the shredded chicken recipes we love is Chicken Enchiladas. Who doesn’t love enchiladas, seriously? They’re true crowd-pleasers and can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. You can even sneak in some hidden veggies without telling the kids. Just blend them up into the sauce!
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wrap
Want something low carb or just packed with nutrients? For a healthier option, why not try Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps? They offer a tasty and lighter alternative to traditional wraps. But trust us when we say you aren’t sacrificing any taste with these buffalo chicken wraps. In fact, the lettuce ads some extra freshness to the sweet chicken. There’s a reason so many South East Asian cuisines use herbs and lettuce in abundance with their meals – serious match made in heaven.
Shredded Chicken Burrito Bowl
If you want something heartier and more filling from your shredded chicken recipes, these Burrito Bowls are just right for you. They’re good to take to the office for a meal prep lunch, but work equally well for dinner. And because you can add any toppings you want, they’re customizable too. Swap out rice for quinoa, beans for corn, or any other number of substitutions. Plus, they’re packed with protein and nutrients.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Helloooo Tex-Mex dreams! Check out this Chicken Enchilada Casserole recipe packed with layers of corn tortillas, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce and cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd! This casserole is oh so easy to make ahead of time and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
Chicken Caesar Pita Pocket
Chicken Caesar Pita Pockets are a delicious and convenient shredded chicken recipe which lean on the healthier side. These pita pockets are not only tasty but also easy to assemble, making them perfect for lunch on the go or a quick dinner option. Enjoy the classic combination of chicken and Caesar salad flavors without needing to pack a fork or worrying about how to keep your lettuce from going soggy.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla
If you’re looking to add a little zing, you have to try these Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas. They combine spicy buffalo chicken with gooey cheese. What’s not to love? Make sure to mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until it’s evenly coated first. You’ll have a perfect dish for game day snacks or dinner for the whole family. Or even just a snack! This is one of those shredded chicken recipes which really fits in any situation.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole
Of course we also have something for the pasta lovers out there. To satisfy those cravings, try out this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole recipe, which is makes the best of two beloved classics. This casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. After all, who would turn down comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan with the heartiness of pasta? Nobody, that’s who!
Perfect Sides to Shredded Chicken Recipes
Shredded chicken recipes are already full, satisfying meals by themselves but these sides complement them perfectly. So if you
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy white rice flavored with fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and cilantro, dressed with lime vinaigrette.
- Fruit Salsa: A vibrant salsa made with diced fruits like mango, pineapple, and strawberries, mixed with red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado mashed with lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a flavorful dip.
- Tortilla Chips with Salsa and/or Queso: Crispy tortilla chips served with homemade salsa or warm cheese dip.
FAQs
Absolutely! Shredded chicken recipes are super versatile. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, or even leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor.
Great question! You’ll easily know the chicken is done by simply making sure the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. You can also use a meat thermometer if you have one and when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), your chicken is ready-to-go.
Definitely! Shredded chicken freezes really well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Easy peasy!
Among the different ways to use leftovers, you can toss leftover shredded chicken into salads, soups, or wraps for a quick and healthy meal. It’s also fantastic in quesadillas, sandwiches, or stuffed peppers. Don’t be afraid to experiment and mix it up!
Cooked shredded chicken can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you won’t be using it within that time frame, it’s best to freeze it for longer storage.
