Are you looking for a delectable yet easy-to-make shredded chicken recipe to add to your cooking repertoire? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 14 simple mouth-watering shredded chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From healthy salads to creamy pasta dishes, these recipes are not only tasty but also versatile and perfect for meal prepping or weeknight dinners. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into these scrumptious recipes!
#1. Classic BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches (Calories: 380 per sandwich)
Introduction: Bring the flavors of a summer cookout to your table any time of the year with these Classic BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches. Packed with tangy, smoky, and sweet flavors, these sandwiches are the perfect dish to share with friends and family. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, jalapeños
Recipe:
- In a large saucepan, combine the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Spoon the chicken mixture onto the hamburger buns, and top with your choice of optional toppings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches!
#2. Creamy Shredded Chicken & Spinach Enchiladas (Calories: 425 per enchilada)
Introduction: Indulge in a cozy, comforting meal with these Creamy Shredded Chicken & Spinach Enchiladas. With a flavorful, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, this dish is the perfect combination of delicious and nutritious. Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 10-ounce can green enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, spinach, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the green enchilada sauce and 1/2 cup of sour cream.
- Spread a thin layer of the remaining green enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. 7. Pour the remaining green enchilada sauce over the filled tortillas, and then spread the remaining sour cream on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the enchiladas.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, delicious Shredded Chicken & Spinach Enchiladas!
#3. Shredded Chicken & Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers (Calories: 315 per stuffed pepper)
Introduction: Looking for a healthy and satisfying meal? Try these Shredded Chicken & Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers! Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, these stuffed peppers make a wholesome, delicious meal that’s both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. Let’s start by gathering our ingredients!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the halved bell peppers.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, red onion, black beans, corn, 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper half with the chicken and quinoa mixture, and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the stuffed peppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your healthy and delicious Shredded Chicken & Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers!
#4. Shredded Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps (Calories: 390 per wrap)
Introduction: Enjoy a light, refreshing, and flavorful lunch with these Shredded Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps. Combining the classic taste of Caesar salad with the convenience of a wrap, these make for a great on-the-go meal or a simple and satisfying lunch at home. Let’s begin by gathering our ingredients!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 4 large flour tortillas or wrap-style bread
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar salad dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure the salad is evenly coated with dressing.
- Add the croutons and cherry tomatoes, and toss gently to combine.
- Lay out the flour tortillas or wrap-style bread, and evenly distribute the chicken Caesar salad mixture onto each one.
- Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the chicken Caesar salad mixture, to taste.
- Carefully fold the sides of the tortilla or wrap-style bread inward, and then roll up tightly from the bottom to encase the filling.
- Slice each wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Shredded Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps!
#5. Asian-inspired Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Calories: 275 per wrap)
Introduction: Add a taste of the East to your meal plan with these vibrant and delicious Asian-inspired Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Packed with flavor, crunch, and healthy ingredients, these lettuce wraps are a guilt-free way to enjoy a satisfying and tasty meal. Let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 12 large lettuce leaves, such as Bibb or butter lettuce
Recipe:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add the shredded chicken, red bell pepper, shredded carrots, green onions, and cilantro to the bowl, and toss well to coat the chicken and vegetables with the sauce.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto the lettuce leaves.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy Asian-inspired Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
#6. Creamy Shredded Chicken & Mushroom Alfredo Pasta (Calories: 615 per serving)
Introduction: Indulge in a rich and satisfying meal with this Creamy Shredded Chicken & Mushroom Alfredo Pasta. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious Alfredo sauce creates a decadent dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Recipe:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, and then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the heavy cream to the saucepan, and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream is heated through.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce over the cooked fettuccine, and add the chicken and mushroom mixture, stirring gently to combine. 8. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy your rich and creamy Shredded Chicken & Mushroom Alfredo Pasta!
#7. Shredded Chicken Taco Salad (Calories: 450 per serving)
Introduction: Add a little zest to your salad game with this flavorful Shredded Chicken Taco Salad. Combining the best elements of a taco with the freshness of a salad, this dish is perfect for a light, yet satisfying meal. Let’s gather our ingredients and start assembling this scrumptious salad!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
Recipe:
- In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the taco seasoning, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated.
- Add the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, sliced black olives, green onions, and cilantro to the bowl.
- Toss the salad ingredients gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and salsa to create a creamy dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss to evenly coat the ingredients.
- Top the salad with crushed tortilla chips and serve immediately. Enjoy your zesty and delicious Shredded Chicken Taco Salad!
#8. Shredded Chicken & Pesto Flatbread Pizza (Calories: 450 per serving)
Introduction: Satisfy your pizza cravings with this light and fresh Shredded Chicken & Pesto Flatbread Pizza. Featuring a crisp flatbread crust, flavorful pesto, and tender shredded chicken, this pizza is a delightful alternative to the traditional pie. Let’s gather our ingredients and start creating this tasty pizza!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 4 flatbreads, such as naan or pita
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on each flatbread.
- Top each flatbread with the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced red onion.
- Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the flatbreads are golden brown.
- Remove the flatbreads from the oven, and allow them to cool slightly.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the flatbread pizzas, and then slice each one into pieces. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Shredded Chicken & Pesto Flatbread Pizza!
#9. Shredded Chicken & Rice Soup (Calories: 350 per serving)
Introduction: Warm up with a steaming bowl of this comforting Shredded Chicken & Rice Soup. Packed with tender chicken, hearty rice, and nourishing vegetables, this soup is the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly day. Let’s gather our ingredients and start preparing this soul-warming soup!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Recipe:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onion, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the chicken broth and uncooked rice to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting and delicious Shredded Chicken & Rice Soup!
#10. Buffalo Shredded Chicken Sliders (Calories: 355 per slider)
Introduction: Add a little spice to your next gathering with these zesty Buffalo Shredded Chicken Sliders. These bite-sized sandwiches are packed with tangy Buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese, creating a bold and unforgettable flavor combination. Let’s gather our ingredients and start making these crowd-pleasing sliders!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 12 slider buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles
Recipe:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, and melted butter. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Mix in the crumbled blue cheese, chopped celery, and chopped green onions.
- Split the slider buns in half, and spoon the Buffalo chicken mixture onto the bottom halves.
- Add your choice of optional toppings, and then place the top halves of the slider buns on top.
- Secure each slider with a toothpick if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your zesty and flavorful Buffalo Shredded Chicken Sliders!
#11. Shredded Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry (Calories: 375 per serving)
Introduction: Add a quick and healthy meal to your dinner rotation with this Shredded Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry. Full of flavorful ingredients and nutrient-packed broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and good for you. Let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking this delicious stir-fry!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced onion
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Recipe:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- Pour the soy sauce mixture into the skillet, and then add the water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the stir-fry over cooked white or brown rice. Enjoy your healthy and delicious Shredded Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry!
#12. Shredded Chicken Caprese Salad (Calories: 420 per serving)
Introduction: Savor the taste of summer with this fresh and vibrant Shredded Chicken Caprese Salad. Combining juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and tender chicken, this salad is a delightful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm weather. Let’s gather our ingredients and start assembling this delightful salad!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, shredded chicken, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Gently toss the salad ingredients to combine.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze and extra-virgin olive oil over the salad, and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Shredded Chicken Caprese Salad!
#13. BBQ Shredded Chicken & Pineapple Quesadillas (Calories: 495 per quesadilla)
Introduction: Add a tropical twist to a classic dish with these BBQ Shredded Chicken & Pineapple Quesadillas. Sweet pineapple and tangy barbecue sauce combine with tender shredded chicken and gooey cheese to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please. Let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Recipe:
- In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
- Lay out the flour tortillas, and evenly distribute the Monterey Jack cheese, BBQ chicken, diced pineapple, red onion, and chopped cilantro onto half of each tortilla.
- Fold the tortillas in half, pressing gently to seal the ingredients inside.
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush one side of each quesadilla with melted butter.
- Place the quesadillas, buttered side down, on the skillet or griddle. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
- Carefully flip the quesadillas over, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the quesadillas from the skillet or griddle, and let them cool slightly before slicing each one into wedges. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Shredded Chicken & Pineapple Quesadillas!
#14. Shredded Chicken, Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Shells (Calories: 500 per serving)
Introduction: Combine the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the heartiness of shredded chicken in this Shredded Chicken, Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Shells recipe. Filled with creamy ricotta, tender chicken, and flavorful vegetables, these stuffed shells are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente, and then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture, and arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells, and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake the shells for 30 minutes, and then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.
- Remove the stuffed shells from the oven, and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting and delicious Shredded Chicken, Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Shells!
Top 3 FAQ’s and Answers About Shredded Chicken:
1. What are some healthy alternatives for shredded chicken recipes?
Many of the recipes provided above are healthy options, but if you’re looking for additional ideas, consider using whole grain pasta, brown rice, or quinoa as a base for your dish. You can also add more vegetables to boost the nutritional content. For a lighter option, try using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas or bread.
2. How can I cook and shred chicken easily for these recipes?
There are multiple ways to cook and shred chicken, but using a slow cooker or pressure cooker can make the process even easier. You can cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in a slow cooker, or pressure cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Once cooked, you can use two forks or a stand mixer to shred the chicken effortlessly.
3. Can I freeze these shredded chicken dishes for meal prep?
Yes, many of these shredded chicken recipes are freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prep. To freeze, simply cook the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the meal in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave, oven, or stovetop as needed. Here’s a helpful guide on freezing and reheating meals for your convenience.
Well, there you have it, folks! These 14 mouth-watering shredded chicken recipes are bound to make you the talk of the town (or, at the very least, your household). Whether you’re a chicken connoisseur or just looking to step up your dinner game, these simple yet scrumptious dishes are sure to impress. But don’t stop there, our website is chock-full of other fantastic content that will satisfy your cravings for knowledge and deliciousness alike. Check out our article on 12 Mouth-Watering Squash Recipes You Need to Try Now for more culinary inspiration! Remember, a well-fed mind and body is a happy one. So, happy cooking, and may the shred be with you! 😋🍗