How to Make Simple Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is one of the most versatile, meal-prep-friendly ingredients you can have in your kitchen. Whether you’re using it in salads, wraps, soups, tacos, or grain bowls, having pre-cooked shredded chicken on hand makes healthy eating effortless.

This recipe gives you two easy ways to cook perfect, juicy shredded chicken—slow-cooked or oven-baked—so you can choose the method that fits your schedule. Both methods result in tender, flavourful chicken that can be used in countless dishes throughout the week.

If you’ve ever wondered how to meal prep shredded chicken that’s juicy, delicious, and never dry, this guide is for you! Let’s dive in.

WHY SHREDDED CHICKEN IS A MEAL PREP STAPLE.

If you’re trying to eat healthier, meal prepping is a game-changer, and shredded chicken is one of the easiest proteins to prep in bulk. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly routine:

Super Versatile – Works in salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, soups, tacos, stir-fries, and more.

High in Protein – Keeps you feeling full and satisfied.

Easy to Store – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for longer.

Simple & Customisable – Season it however you like or keep it plain for flexibility.

With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have tender shredded chicken ready to go for any meal.

TWO FOOLPROOF WAYS TO COOK SHREDDED CHICKEN.

You can cook shredded chicken in a slow cooker or in the oven—both methods are simple and give you perfectly juicy results.

Serves 4 people

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: Slow Cooked 4 hours Oven Baked: 35 minutes

Slow-Cooked Shredded Chicken (Best for Hands-Off Cooking)

If you love set-and-forget cooking, the slow cooker method is for you. It takes a little longer, but the result is incredibly tender, easy-to-shred chicken.

You’ll Need:

4 chicken breasts (500g/1.1 lb)

1 cup (250ml) chicken stock

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp ground pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour over the chicken stock.
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board.
Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Pro Tip: For extra moisture, mix some of the leftover cooking liquid back into the shredded chicken before storing it.

Oven-Baked Shredded Chicken (Faster & Still Juicy!)

The oven method is quicker but still delivers juicy, tender chicken. It’s great for when you need shredded chicken in under an hour.

You’ll Need:

4 chicken breasts (500g/1.1 lb)

2 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp ground pepper

INSTRUCTIONS.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with baking paper.
Place the chicken breasts on the tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F)
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding with two forks.

Pro Tip: Letting the chicken rest before shredding locks in the juices and keeps it from drying out.

HOW TO STORE & USE SHREDDED CHICKEN.

Once your chicken is cooked and shredded, here’s how to store and use it:

In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
In the Freezer: Freeze in portions in airtight containers or ziplock bags for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Warm it in a pan with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Now that you’ve got your shredded chicken prepped, here are some delicious ways to use it throughout the week.

5 EASY WAYS TO USE SHREDDED CHICKEN IN YOUR MEALS.

Shredded chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your fridge. It’s packed with protein, easy to prepare, and makes healthy eating effortless. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick, nutritious meal, here are five delicious ways to use shredded chicken.

Chicken and Mango Salsa Lettuce Cups
Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavour, these lettuce cups are the perfect light meal. Simply fill crisp lettuce leaves with shredded chicken, juicy mango salsa, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing bite that’s ideal for warm days.

Tahini Rainbow Quinoa Salad
For a nourishing and colourful meal, toss shredded chicken into this vibrant quinoa salad. With crunchy veggies, fresh herbs, and a creamy tahini dressing, it’s a satisfying and protein-rich option for lunch or dinner.

Chicken Caesar Mason Jar Salad
Meal prep just got easier with this grab-and-go Caesar salad. Layer shredded chicken, crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, parmesan, and a creamy dressing in a mason jar for a quick and delicious lunch.

Ginger Chicken and Turmeric Soup
Looking for a comforting and immune-boosting meal? This nourishing soup combines shredded chicken with warming ginger and anti-inflammatory turmeric for a deeply satisfying bowl that’s perfect for any time of year.

Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups
If you love bold flavours, these Thai-inspired lettuce cups are a must-try. Toss shredded chicken with a zesty peanut sauce, fresh herbs, and crunchy veggies, then wrap them up in lettuce leaves for a delicious, low-carb meal.

Shredded chicken is a meal prep staple that makes it easy to whip up healthy, delicious meals in minutes. Whether you're in the mood for something light and fresh or warm and comforting, these five ideas will keep your meals exciting all week long.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work just as well and are often even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using larger pieces.

2. How do I keep shredded chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it—use a meat thermometer to check when it reaches 74°C (165°F) .

Mix in a little chicken broth or sauce before storing.

Keep it covered tightly in an airtight container.

3. Can I season my shredded chicken with different flavours?

Absolutely! You can customise the seasoning to match whatever dishes you’re making. Here are some ideas:

Italian: Add garlic powder, oregano, and basil.
Mexican: Mix with cumin, chili powder, and lime juice.
Asian: Toss with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.

FINAL THOUGHTS: MEAL PREP JUST GOT EASIER.

Shredded chicken is one of the simplest and most useful meal-prep ingredients you can have on hand. Whether you slow cook or oven-bake, these methods guarantee juicy, tender chicken that can be used in endless meals throughout the week.

By taking just a little time to meal prep, you’ll have healthy, protein-packed meals ready to go, saving you time, money, and stress.

What’s your favourite way to use shredded chicken? Let me know in the comments!