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Homemade Mexican Shredded Chicken photo

Mexican Shredded Chicken

Savory, lightly smoky shredded chicken perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or nachos.
Prep Time 17 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 3 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Small Bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • forks or hand mixer
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap; gently pound to an even thickness with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and chipotle chile powder.
  3. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering, then carefully add the chicken presentation-side down and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking until the thickest part reaches 165°F, about 4 to 8 more minutes depending on thickness.
  6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate or bowl and shred with two forks, a hand mixer, or your fingers once cool enough to handle.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, add the broth, stir to combine, cover partially, and simmer gently on low for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  8. Use the shredded chicken for tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, or other Mexican-style dishes.

Notes

  • Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooked shredded chicken for up to 3 months.
  • If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat gently over medium-low with a splash of broth or water.
  • The stovetop reheating preserves texture better than the microwave.