Cooking with shredded chicken can transform your weeknight dinners with minimal effort. If you have leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie, you already have the makings of a delicious meal. This article offers a collection of versatile recipes that can suit any taste, from creamy soups to spicy tacos.
These recipes aim to simplify your meal planning without sacrificing flavor. You’ll find options ranging from hearty casseroles to fresh salads, all designed to make the most out of shredded chicken. Enjoy the convenience and taste of these easy-to-follow dishes.
1) Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Sauté until the onion softens, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Now, add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir in chipotle peppers and diced tomatoes. Squeeze in the juice of one lime. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
For extra flavor, you can add a splash of chicken broth and a pinch of onion powder. Let the mixture heat through for about 5 minutes until all the flavors blend together.
Warm your tortillas in a pan or microwave. Spoon the spicy chicken mixture into each tortilla. Top with avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos!
2) BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
Cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Mix barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water. Pour over the chicken and cook until tender. This usually takes 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 on low.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce.
Toast your buns in a broiler until the cheese melts. Add the BBQ chicken on top. For extra flavor, add a slice of pickles and some onions.
Serve the sandwiches warm. This recipe is simple yet delicious. Perfect for any meal.
3) Chicken Enchiladas
For a delicious and satisfying meal, try making Chicken Enchiladas. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, combine cooked and shredded chicken with about 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, warm your tortillas so they’re easier to roll. You can do this by microwaving them for about a minute, flipping halfway through.
Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a couple of tablespoons of shredded cheese and the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
Once all the enchiladas are rolled and in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with more cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve your Chicken Enchiladas hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or sour cream. Enjoy!
4) Shredded Chicken Burrito Bowls
Shredded chicken burrito bowls are a delicious and easy meal to make. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time. Just remove the skin and shred the meat.
Start by heating a medium-sized pan over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Season with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix and cook until heated through.
Next, prepare your base. Spoon cooked rice into each bowl. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice.
Top the rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Add fresh toppings to give your bowls more flavor.
Avocado slices, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese are great choices. Drizzle some cilantro lime dressing over everything.
These bowls are versatile. Feel free to add or remove ingredients based on your taste. Enjoy a tasty and healthy meal with minimal effort!
5) Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are quick to make and tasty. You’ll need shredded chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a few extra ingredients.
Start by mixing shredded chicken with salsa in a bowl. Add chopped green onions, cilantro, and cheese. Stir gently to combine.
Heat a nonstick skillet on medium-high heat with a little oil. Place a tortilla in the pan and add some of the chicken mixture.
Sprinkle more cheese on top and fold the tortilla in half. Cook until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
Repeat these steps with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture. These quesadillas are perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor.
6) Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It’s warm, creamy, and has a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors.
To start, you’ll need cooked, shredded chicken. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Mix until smooth.
Stir in the shredded chicken and cheese, making sure everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for dipping.
This dip is perfect for game days, parties, or any time you want a tasty, easy-to-make appetizer.
7) Chicken Salad Wraps
Chicken Salad Wraps are a quick and delicious meal option. Start by cooking and shredding your chicken. You can either boil or bake the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked. Make sure to let them cool before shredding.
In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, cilantro, green onions, celery, and carrots. For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Add a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of spice. Stir everything until well combined.
Once the chicken is shredded, add it to the bowl with the mayonnaise mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Take a tortilla wrap and place it on a flat surface. Lay down some lettuce leaves first, followed by a generous scoop of the chicken salad. You can also add extras like cucumber, tomato, or sunflower seeds for more crunch.
Carefully roll the tortilla into a snug cylinder. To keep everything together, you can use plastic wrap to cover the roll and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This helps the wrap hold its shape better.
Chicken Salad Wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
8) Shredded Chicken Pasta
Shredded chicken pasta is a quick and delicious meal for any night of the week. You can use any type of pasta you like, from penne to spaghetti.
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While it cooks, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Next, add shredded chicken to the skillet and stir well. You can season it with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavor. Pour in marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce, depending on your preference.
When the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the skillet. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and chicken.
You can sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for using up leftover chicken, making dinner both easy and tasty.
9) Shredded Chicken Pizza
Shredded chicken pizza is a delicious and quick option for dinner. Start with your favorite pizza crust, whether it’s homemade or store-bought. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spread a layer of pizza sauce or your favorite spread like BBQ sauce or cooking creme on the crust. Sprinkle shredded chicken evenly over the sauce.
Add your favorite toppings, such as onions, roasted garlic, or bell peppers. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. You can also add some bacon bits for extra flavor.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The crust should be golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This makes a perfect meal for family nights or gatherings. Enjoy!
10) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a delicious and comforting dish. It combines tender shredded chicken with a flavorful broth. The soup is often made with ingredients like tomatoes, black beans, corn, and various spices.
Start by sautéing onion and garlic until they’re soft. Add diced tomatoes, green chilies, and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a low simmer.
Add cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes until all the flavors meld together. You can also add chili powder, oregano, and cumin for extra flavor.
When the soup is ready, garnish with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and tortilla strips. These toppings add a burst of freshness and crunch.
Serve your chicken tortilla soup hot. It’s a perfect meal for any day of the week. Enjoy it with a side of warm tortillas or some avocado slices.
11) Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a timeless favorite. It’s a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
To make this casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F. You will need a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Grease the dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Combine cooked shredded chicken, uncooked rice, and your choice of cream soups. Popular options include cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom. Add some water to help the rice cook properly.
Mix in your favorite vegetables like peas or broccoli. Season with salt, pepper, and other herbs you enjoy. Some people like adding shredded cheese on top.
Bake the casserole for about 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown. Enjoy your comforting chicken and rice casserole hot from the oven.
12) Chicken Nachos
Chicken nachos are a crowd favorite for a reason. They’re easy to make and always delicious. Start by pulling apart cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken works great for this.
Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with half of your shredded chicken and a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers until you have several, ending with cheese on top. Bake at 350ºF until the cheese is melted. You can use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Add your favorite toppings. Consider sliced jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, and green onions. Sour cream and guacamole also make great additions.
Chicken nachos are versatile. Feel free to use different kinds of cheese or add beans and corn for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious, homemade nachos!
13) Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for using shredded chicken. You start by sautéing vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in melted butter until they are soft.
Next, stir in flour to form a roux, which will thicken the filling. Gradually add chicken broth and cream, letting the mixture simmer until it thickens.
Add your shredded chicken, peas, and any other desired vegetables. Pour the filling into a prepared pie crust in a pie dish. Cover with another layer of crust, crimp the edges, and cut a few slits on top to let steam escape.
Brush the top with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake until the crust is crispy and golden. Chicken Pot Pie reheats well and can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. Enjoy each bite of this warm, hearty dish!
14) Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Chicken Lettuce Wraps are flavorful and healthy. They are a great option when you want a light but satisfying meal. To make them, start by heating oil in a skillet. Add chopped onions and cook until soft.
Next, add shredded or ground chicken. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Stir in garlic, ginger, and your choice of sauces, like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or sriracha. These provide a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, water chestnuts, and green onions. Cook until tender. Spoon the mixture onto large lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce or romaine work well because they are sturdy and crisp.
Serve your Chicken Lettuce Wraps with extra toppings. You can add shredded carrots, chopped nuts, or a squeeze of lime. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste. Enjoy fresh and delicious Chicken Lettuce Wraps for lunch or dinner.
15) Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Chicken stuffed peppers are a flavorful and nutritious meal. To start, cut off the tops of bell peppers and remove the seeds and ribs. You can use a variety of bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
Next, marinate chopped chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and fajita seasoning. Let the chicken soak in these flavors for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
While the chicken marinates, cook some rice or bulgur wheat. Both will add a nice texture to your stuffing.
Heat a large pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until fully cooked. Then, mix in tomatoes, black beans, salsa, and taco seasoning.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish. Fill each pepper with the chicken mixture.
Bake the stuffed peppers for about 25-30 minutes. You want the peppers tender and the filling hot. If you like a little extra, sprinkle some cheese on top during the last ten minutes of baking.
Serve your chicken stuffed peppers warm. They make a great main dish and are perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
16) Chicken Chili
Chicken chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. You start by cooking onions and garlic in a large pot until they are soft.
Then, you add shredded chicken, tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, corn, chili powder, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and delicious chili.
You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Serve your chicken chili with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for an extra touch.
This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
17) Chicken Empanadas
Chicken empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped onions and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and cilantro, then cook for another minute until fragrant.
To prepare the filling, mix the cooked vegetables with shredded chicken. Season the mixture with salt, cumin powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Make sure the spices coat the chicken evenly for a balanced flavor.
Next, take an empanada dough disc and place a scoop of the chicken filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling, then crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers to seal. Repeat until all the filling or dough is used.
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with an egg wash made by whisking together one egg and a little water. This will give them a nice golden color when baked.
Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade chicken empanadas hot and fresh from the oven.
18) Shredded Chicken Stir-fry
Shredded Chicken Stir-fry is a quick and tasty meal. You start by heating oil in a wok or a large fry pan over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add garlic and stir-fry it for about 30 seconds. This helps flavor the oil. Remove and discard the garlic.
Next, add chopped vegetables. Chinese broccoli stems are a popular choice. Stir-fry the vegetables for about a minute and a half. Add the shredded chicken to the pan. Cook everything together, making sure the chicken is heated through.
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in your favorite noodles. Pour in some braising liquid or soy sauce. Stir-fry everything, tossing the noodles to ensure they are well coated with the sauce. If you like a bit of heat, add a splash of Sriracha.
For extra flavor, you can add fresh and dried red chilies. Make sure to not let the dried chilies burn. Stir in some ginger and spring onions too. Keep stirring and cooking until everything is well combined.
Serve your Shredded Chicken Stir-fry hot. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of rice. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights.
19) Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken Fried Rice is quick and easy to prepare. Start by chopping cooked chicken into small cubes and seasoning with a little salt.
Next, heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until they’re fully cooked. Then, mix the eggs with the vegetables.
Add the cooked chicken to the mix. Pour in some soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil for flavor. Stir everything together.
Lastly, add cold, cooked rice to the pan. Increase the heat to high and stir-fry until the rice is heated through. Your Chicken Fried Rice is ready to serve.
20) Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a delicious and easy meal to make with shredded chicken. Start by heating some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan and cook until they soften, about 8-10 minutes.
While the veggies are cooking, warm up your tortillas in the oven at 350 degrees. Once the peppers and onions are done, add your shredded chicken to the skillet. Mix well until everything is heated through and nicely combined.
You can season the mix with lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. If you like, marinate your chicken beforehand for extra flavor. Serve the chicken, peppers, and onions in the warm tortillas.
Top with your favorite garnishes like cilantro, avocado, and sour cream. This simple, flavorful dish is perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Cooking Techniques for Shredded Chicken
Preparing shredded chicken is easy if you use the right techniques. This section will explain three popular methods: slow cooking, using a pressure cooker, and oven-baking.
Slow Cooker Methods
Using a slow cooker is ideal for shredded chicken. Begin by placing boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Season the chicken with your favorite spices, salt, and pepper. Add a bit of broth or water to keep the meat moist. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
After cooking, the chicken should be tender enough to shred with two forks. This technique is perfect for busy days because you can set it in the morning and have dinner ready by evening.
Pressure Cooker Tips
If you need shredded chicken quickly, a pressure cooker is your best friend. Place the chicken in the pressure cooker with some broth and your desired seasonings. Set the cooker to high pressure.
Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size and amount of chicken. Be sure to let the pressure naturally release for 5-10 minutes before opening the lid. This helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Use forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken once it’s done.
Oven-Baking Strategies
Oven-baking chicken for shredding is another great method, especially for larger batches. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts or thighs on a baking sheet. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices.
Cover the chicken with foil to retain moisture and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding with forks. This method ensures your chicken is cooked evenly and remains juicy.
These strategies allow you to create versatile shredded chicken that can be used in various recipes, from tacos to salads. Each method offers its own benefits, so choose based on your time and equipment availability.
Nutritional Benefits of Shredded Chicken
Shredded chicken offers numerous nutritional benefits. It provides high protein levels, can be low in fat, and includes essential vitamins and minerals.
Protein Content
Shredded chicken is an excellent protein source. A 3-ounce serving of shredded chicken breast can contain about 26 grams of protein. This makes it a great option for building and repairing muscles.
Protein is especially important for those with active lifestyles, as well as individuals looking to increase their protein intake. It’s also beneficial for growing children and teenagers.
Including shredded chicken in your diet helps you meet your daily protein requirements. Plus, it’s versatile and can be added to many dishes like salads, soups, and sandwiches.
Low-Fat Options
Chicken breast, which is often used for shredding, is a naturally low-fat meat. A 3-ounce serving typically contains only about 3 grams of fat, with very little saturated fat.
Opting for shredded chicken over other meats can help you reduce your overall fat intake. This is particularly useful for those watching their calorie consumption or managing their heart health.
Cooking methods matter too. Boiling, baking, or using a slow cooker can keep the fat content low. Avoid frying chicken to maintain its low-fat benefits.
Vitamins and Minerals
Shredded chicken is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It provides B vitamins like niacin (B3), which supports your metabolism, and vitamin B6, which is important for brain health.
Additionally, shredded chicken is a good source of phosphorus and selenium. Phosphorus helps keep your bones and teeth strong, while selenium supports your immune system.
Including shredded chicken in your diet ensures you get these vital nutrients. This helps maintain overall health and supports various bodily functions, making it a valuable addition to meals.
Pairing Suggestions for Shredded Chicken
Shredded chicken is versatile and pairs well with various vegetables, grains, and sauces. These combinations can add flavor and balance to your meals.
Vegetable Pairings
Vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients to shredded chicken dishes. Roasted bell peppers offer a sweet and smoky taste, while zucchini provides a mild flavor that complements the chicken. Carrots bring a natural sweetness and crunch. Spinach and kale are great options for adding greens. If you prefer a bit of spice, jalapeños or chili peppers can give your dish a kick.
You can also try mixing shredded chicken with a cabbage slaw for a refreshing and crunchy combination. Tomatoes and avocados are perfect for salads or tacos, adding both creaminess and acidity.
Grain Pairings
Pairing shredded chicken with grains creates a filling and hearty meal. Rice is a classic choice—whether it’s plain white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice. If you want something different, try quinoa for its nutty flavor and protein content. Couscous and farro are also excellent choices, offering unique textures and tastes.
Pasta varieties, like penne or fusilli, work well with shredded chicken in creamy or tomato-based sauces. Tortillas, both corn and flour, are ideal for making tacos or wraps. For a healthier option, consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Sauce and Seasoning Ideas
Sauces and seasonings can elevate the flavor of shredded chicken. BBQ sauce adds a smoky sweetness, perfect for sandwiches or sliders. Buffalo sauce gives a spicy kick and pairs well with blue cheese or ranch dressing. For a tangy twist, use teriyaki sauce with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
If you prefer a Mediterranean flair, tzatziki or pesto can be great additions. Seasonings like garlic, paprika, cumin, and oregano can also enhance the taste, whether you’re going for a more traditional or exotic flavor profile.
A simple lime and cilantro mix can add freshness, ideal for Mexican-inspired dishes. Soy sauce and ginger are perfect for Asian-style shredded chicken, offering both depth and warmth.
