Shredded Chicken Recipe Oven Baked for Easy Meals

When it comes to versatile and comforting meals, shredded chicken is a true kitchen hero. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a filling protein addition to your favorite dishes, an easy shredded chicken recipe made in the oven is a fantastic choice.

This method ensures juicy, tender chicken every time, without the hassle of stovetop monitoring or slow cooker wait times. Plus, the oven does most of the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or prep side dishes.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a foolproof oven-baked shredded chicken recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for countless meals. From tacos and salads to sandwiches and casseroles, shredded chicken adds a delicious protein punch.

Ready to transform your chicken game? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven-baked shredded chicken recipe is a kitchen staple for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just season, bake, and shred.

No boiling or constant stirring needed. The oven cooks the chicken evenly, keeping it juicy and tender, which is sometimes tricky to achieve with other methods.

Another reason to love it? It’s highly versatile.

Once shredded, this chicken can be used in a variety of dishes from healthy salads to hearty sandwiches. It’s also perfect for meal prep, making lunches and dinners a breeze throughout the week.

Lastly, it’s a healthier option compared to fried or heavily sauced chicken dishes, allowing you to control the flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

Equipment

• Baking dish or oven-safe skillet (at least 9×13 inches)
• Aluminum foil or a lid for covering
• Tongs or fork for shredding
• Meat thermometer (optional, but helpful for accuracy)
• Mixing bowl for seasoning the chicken

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or thyme if using. Mix well to create a flavorful rub.
4. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
5. Place the chicken breasts in your baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the dish to keep the chicken moist while baking.
6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. This traps steam and helps cook the chicken gently.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the breasts. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
9. Use two forks or tongs to shred the chicken in the baking dish. It should pull apart easily. Mix the shredded chicken with the pan juices for extra flavor.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This shredded chicken is perfect for quick meals!

Tips & Variations

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes to 2 hours before baking.

• Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Shredded Chicken: After shredding, mix the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize.
• Herb Variation: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried for a fresher taste.
• Slow Cooker Alternative: If you prefer, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker with the same seasoning and liquids for 3-4 hours on low.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For more flavor and juiciness, substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs using the same method, adjusting cooking time slightly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Shredded chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Tacos: Warm up some corn tortillas, add the shredded chicken, and top with fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
• Salads: Toss shredded chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a protein-packed salad.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Mix the chicken with a little mayo or BBQ sauce and pile it into a sandwich or wrap.
• Casseroles: Add shredded chicken to your favorite casserole for a hearty meal.
• Soups: Stir shredded chicken into vegetable or chicken soup for added protein and texture.

For more healthy and delicious meal ideas, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas. If you’re interested in comfort food, our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food is an excellent option.

Conclusion

This oven-baked shredded chicken recipe is a simple, reliable way to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any meal. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a must-know for home cooks looking to add protein to their diet without fuss.

The seasoning blend is customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences, whether you want something mild or a bit spicier.

Not only does this method save you time, but it also yields tender chicken that pulls apart effortlessly—ideal for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more. Plus, with its nutritious profile, it’s a healthy addition to your weekly menu.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the convenience and versatility of oven-shredded chicken!

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