This easy shredded Mexican chicken is full of bold flavors, thanks to spices like cumin and chili powder. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or just on its own!
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just throw everything in a pot, let it cook, and shred it up. It’s a real time-saver for busy days—plus, it tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re short on time, you could use thighs for a juicier option. Canned chicken also works in a pinch!
Spices: Chili powder adds heat, while cumin and smoked paprika give depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper can do the trick. Just start with less if you want to control the heat!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can be a decent substitute. Just remember it will change the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is great for garnish. If you’re not a fan, try green onions or even parsley for a fresh touch without the taste of cilantro.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Shredded?
Getting perfectly shredded chicken is simple! After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain moisture. Using two forks or meat claws, pull the chicken apart. It’s best to shred while it’s still warm, as it breaks apart more easily.
- Before shredding, check that the chicken is fully cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Consider shredding in the skillet with the sauce to soak up the flavors—this makes it even more delicious!
How to Make Easy Shredded Mexican Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: diced red onion, lime wedges, tortillas for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, followed by a few minutes shredding it and allowing the flavors to combine. A tasty and quick meal for you to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they get a nice light brown color. This adds flavor!
2. Add the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Now, rub this lovely spice mixture all over the chicken breasts. Make sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor!
3. Simmer Away:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and super tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily!
5. Mix in the Lime Juice:
Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and add the fresh lime juice. Stir everything together! Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend all those wonderful flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your shredded chicken is ready to serve! Top with fresh cilantro and enjoy it in tacos, burritos, or as a filling for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes. If you like, add some diced red onion and lime wedges on the side for extra flavor. Yum!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Meat for Chicken?
Yes, you can use other meats like pork or turkey for this recipe! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Pork may take a bit longer to cook through, while turkey will be similar in time to chicken. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How Do I Store Leftover Shredded Chicken?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. If using water, consider adding an extra pinch of salt and a splash of lime juice to boost the flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker version, place the seared chicken and spice mixture in the slow cooker, add the chicken broth, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will be tender and easy to shred once cooked!
