Shredded Chicken in Homemade Stock Recipe
Introduction
Shredded chicken is a versatile and easy-to-make ingredient perfect for salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more. This simple method ensures tender, flavorful chicken every time by cooking it gently in a seasoned broth.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ chicken stock cubes
- 2 chicken breasts (around 400g)
- 700ml cold water
- 1½ tsp fine salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Crumble the chicken stock cubes into a saucepan and add the chicken breasts.
- Step 2: Pour in 700ml of cold water, then stir in the fine salt and ground black pepper.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Step 4: Cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low, maintaining a very gentle simmer with a few bubbles—avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender.
- Step 5: Cook the chicken for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 75°C (165°F) if available.
- Step 6: Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Step 7: Using two forks, gently shred the chicken meat into thin pieces.
- Step 8: Store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge until needed.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add aromatics like a bay leaf, garlic clove, or sliced onion to the simmering water.
- If you prefer, shredded chicken can be seasoned further with spices or mixed with sauces before serving.
- Use dark meat chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.
Storage
Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat or microwave until just heated through to avoid drying out the meat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze shredded chicken?
Yes, shredded chicken freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and use within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The meat should be opaque with no pink inside and juices running clear.
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Shredded Chicken in Homemade Stock Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This shredded chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender chicken breasts poached in a seasoned broth. The method ensures the chicken remains juicy and perfect for using in salads, sandwiches, tacos, or any dish requiring shredded chicken.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 ½ chicken stock cubes
- 2 chicken breasts, around 400g
- 700ml cold water
- 1½ tsp fine salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Crumble the chicken stock cubes into a saucepan. Add the chicken breasts and cover them with 700ml of cold water. Stir in 1½ teaspoons of fine salt and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper to evenly season the broth.
- Cook the chicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Maintain a very gentle simmer with occasional bubbles on the surface, avoiding boiling to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C for food safety.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the broth and transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for 10 minutes to reabsorb juices and become easier to shred.
- Shred the chicken: Using two forks, gently pull apart the chicken breasts into thin shreds. This technique helps keep the meat tender and perfect for adding to various dishes.
- Store the shredded chicken: Place the shredded chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days for convenient use in your meals.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature of 75°C.
- Be careful not to let the water boil to keep the chicken tender.
- Shredded chicken is great for meal prep and can be used in sandwiches, salads, tacos, and more.
- The chicken stock cubes add a savory base, but you can adjust seasoning to taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: shredded chicken, poached chicken, easy chicken recipe, tender shredded chicken, chicken breasts
