To cook shredded chicken, you have a few options depending on your preferences and available equipment. Here's a simple method using poaching, boiling, or baking:
### Method 1: Poaching
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper (optional)
- Garlic cloves, onion (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer in a large skillet or saucepan.
2. Pour enough chicken broth or water over the chicken to cover it completely. You can also add aromatics like garlic cloves or onion for extra flavor.
3. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
4. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet or saucepan with a lid.
6. Let the chicken cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
7. Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it cool slightly.
8. Using two forks, shred the chicken into small pieces.
9. Use the shredded chicken immediately in your favorite recipes, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
### Method 2: Boiling
Ingredients and instructions are similar to the poaching method, except you bring water to a boil instead of simmering it.
### Method 3: Baking
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt, pepper, and other seasonings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly.
6. Using two forks, shred the chicken into small pieces.
7. Use the shredded chicken immediately in your favorite recipes, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.