This shredded chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves delicious, easy-to-make meals. Chicken breasts can be cooked in a slow cooker, instant pot or on the stove until they are tender and juicy.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a large pot and add enough chicken broth or water to cover the chicken.
Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Chicken will be done when it reaches 165°F internal temperature when poked with a meat thermometer.
Add the cooked chicken to a large bowl. Rip into a few smaller pieces. Use a hand mixer on lowest setting to help shred the chicken. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken with your fingers, or use two forks.
Slow Cooker
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot in a single layer. Pour the chicken broth on top.
Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "seal". Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes once cooking is done. Then release rest of remaining with quick pressure.
Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using the hand mixer method or by hand with two forks.
Cook In Slow Cooker
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts a the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the chicken broth over top top.
Seal with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Or until chicken is fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using the hand mixer method or by hand with two forks.
Recipe Notes:
Chicken Shredding Methods:
USE A HAND MIXER – This is my personal favorite way to shred chicken! If you have a hand mixer or stand mixer, you can use it to shred your chicken quickly and easily. Simply break the cooked chicken into a few medium chunks then add it to a large bowl and shred the chicken on a low speed.
USE TWO FORKS – The most common and easiest way to shred chicken is by using two forks. Simply place the cooked chicken on a cutting board or plate and use two forks to pull the meat apart. Use one fork to hold the chicken in place and the other fork to shred the meat into small pieces.
Storing Leftovers:
FRIDGE – Let chicken cool completely then put it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to keep it fresh. It should last in the fridge for up to 4 days.
TO FREEZE – You can freeze shredded chicken for later by putting it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible as this can cause freezer burn. It should last in the freezer for up to 6 months.