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Poached Shredded Chicken

Poached Shredded Chicken

Boneless chicken simmered gently in water or broth until tender, then shredded for tacos, soups, salads, and casseroles.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 254 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan with lid
  • Two forks or hand mixer
  • Cutting board
  • Instant read thermometer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, similar sizes
  • 4 cup water or low sodium chicken broth enough to cover the chicken
  • ½ tsp salt omit if using regular broth

Instructions
 

Cooking

  • Simmer. Place the chicken in a saucepan, cover with liquid, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook. Cover and cook twelve to fifteen minutes for breasts or fourteen to seventeen for thighs, until 165 F.
  • Shred. Pull the meat apart with two forks or a hand mixer on low.
  • Store. Toss with a little cooking liquid and cool within two hours.

Notes

Substitutions: Use broth for more flavor or thighs for richer meat.
Tips: Keep the heat low and save the cooking liquid for soup.
Storage: Refrigerate for three to four days or freeze for up to three months.
Nutrition is calculated for breasts and water.
Keyword Chicken Breasts, Chicken Broth, Chicken Thighs, Poached Shredded Chicken, Salt