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Keto Shredded Chicken Recipe 🍗

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Looking to add a versatile and flavorful dish to your keto meal plan? Try our Keto Shredded Chicken! This dish features shredded chicken seasoned with Cajun spices and simmered in chicken broth. The best part is its versatility - enjoy it on its own or use it in various keto-friendly meals. From salads and wraps to stir-fries and tacos, this recipe is a perfect fit for any meal!

Shredded chicken recipe.
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Preparation and cooking overview

This low-carb dish is quick and easy, taking just 40 minutes to prepare. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Then, sear the chicken and let it simmer gently in chicken broth. When the chicken becomes tender, shred the juicy meat, and it's ready to serve.

Chef's note

Enhance the flavor of this dish by adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or spinach while it simmers. For a touch of uniqueness, sprinkle it with spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin. Here's an extra tip: don't toss the leftover chicken broth. Store it in a sealed container and use it later as a base for soups, stews, or sauces.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Rest Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 3 Servings

🍗 Ingredients for this keto shredded chicken recipe

You only need five simple ingredients to make this easy keto chicken recipe:

  • 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
Ingredients made ready on the table for shredded chicken recipe.

Ingredient substitutions

  • Cajun seasoning: If you can't find ready-made Cajun seasoning in your grocery store, create the blend using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Adjust the amount as per your preference.
  • Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly different flavor and texture.
  • Chicken broth: Use plain water and add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper powder, and dried herbs to enhance the flavor.

Additional ingredients

Feel free to experiment with this dish and add your favorite ingredients. Note that these optional ingredients are not part of the original recipe.

  • Garlic powder: Add a teaspoon while seasoning the chicken for the extra garlicky punch.
  • Cheese: For a cheesy bite, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan or Colby Jack cheese over the shredded chicken before you serve it.
  • Fresh herbs: Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after shredding the chicken.
  • Red pepper flakes: If you're a fan of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the chicken while seasoning.
  • Lemon zest: Grate some lemon zest over the shredded chicken before serving for a zesty tang.
  • Enchilada sauce: For an authentic Mexican shredded chicken, drizzle some keto-friendly enchilada sauce over the chicken and enjoy the fiery flavors!

Cooking tools required

To make this Keto Shredded Chicken recipe, you will need the following cooking tools:

  • Cast-iron pot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Mixing bowl
Shredded chicken with toppings served on the plate.

Tools substitute options

  • Cast-iron pot: If you don't have a cast-iron pot, use a large Dutch oven.

How to make Keto Shredded Chicken: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-searing
  • Simmering

Preparation steps

  1. Gather all the ingredients.
  2. Measure them according to the suggested quantities.
  3. Pat dry the chicken breasts with the help of a paper towel.
Chicken breasts on chopping board.

Cooking instructions

  1. Apply Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper on each side of the chicken filet.
  2. Warm up the olive oil in a cast-iron pot on medium-high heat.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot oil, searing each side for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Once the chicken develops a golden-brown crust, add the chicken broth. Lower the heat to medium and place a lid on the pot.
  5. Allow it to simmer in the broth for around 25 minutes.
  6. Remove the chicken from the pot and put it into a large mixing bowl.
  7. Using a hand mixer set to low speed, shred the chicken breasts to your desired texture. If you don't have a hand mixer, you can also use two forks to do the job.
  8. Place the shredded chicken onto a plate for serving. Drizzle some of the cooked broth over the chicken shreds for added flavor, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Seasoning chicken breasts.
Pan shearing chicken breasts.
Chicken breasts cooking in a cast iron skillet.
Cooked chicken breasts in a skillet.
Shredding chicken using hand mixer.
Shredded chicken.
Seasoning chicken breasts.
Pan shearing chicken breasts.
Chicken breasts cooking in a cast iron skillet.
Cooked chicken breasts in a skillet.
Shredding chicken using hand mixer.
Shredded chicken.

Chef's pro tip

To ensure your chicken stays moist and tender, avoid overcooking it. Instead, keep a close eye on the cooking process using a meat thermometer. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a delicious chicken.

How to serve the shredded chicken?

Here are some options to serve this low-carb shredded chicken:

  • Make a low-carb chicken salad: Combine the shredded chicken with Charred Brussels Sprouts, Arugula Salad, or Kale Salad for a refreshing touch.
  • Use in lettuce wraps or tacos: Layer the shredded chicken on lettuce leaves. Add taco seasoning and the ingredients of your choice. Drizzle Creamy Jalapeno Sauce, Salsa Verde, or Cheese Sauce to make flavorful chicken tacos.
  • Add it into casseroles or stir-fries: Add the shredded chicken to casseroles or stir-fries to create a satisfying meal. Try experimenting with our Broccoli Casserole and Cauliflower Casserole for a flavorful delight.
  • Pair with Zucchini noodles: Mix the shredded chicken with zoodles, and drizzle with chicken broth for a dish similar to spaghetti.
Shredded chicken served in a bowl.

How to make it healthier?

  • Prepare your own Cajun seasoning at home instead of using store-bought to have more control over the ingredients.
  • Reduce sodium content when seasoning the chicken.
  • Instead of using pre-made chicken broth, make it at home to ensure quality and taste.

Time-saving tips

  • Use a hand mixer: Shred the chicken quickly with a hand mixer on low speed. Be cautious not to over-process it into a paste.
Homemade shredded chicken recipe.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Seasoned chicken breasts: If you have some extra time, season the chicken breasts ahead of time and keep them in a sealed container in the fridge. This will speed up cooking and deepen the meat's flavor.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage instructions

  • Refrigerator: Keep any leftover shredded chicken in a sealed container in the fridge. It will last for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: If you want to store it longer, divide the chicken into portions, put them in freezer bags, and freeze them for 2-3 months. Defrost the frozen chicken in the fridge before using it.
Shredded chicken served in a plate.

Reheating instructions

Shredded chicken is better enjoyed cold, but if you want to reheat it, here are some best practices:

  • Microwave: Reheat the leftovers at 30-second intervals. Keep checking after each interval according to your preference.
  • Stovetop: Add a bit of olive oil or butter to a skillet and heat on medium. Stir in the shredded chicken and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Note: Add a splash of water or chicken broth over the leftovers before reheating to prevent them from drying out.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our Keto Shredded Chicken combines juicy chicken with a blend of tasty spices. It's perfect for dinner, lunch, or even brunch. This flexible dish is ready to add excitement to your keto meals, no matter when and how you enjoy it.

We're excited to hear about your experience with this recipe. Don't forget to drop a comment and share your thoughts!

Low carb shredded chicken.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can use an alternative pot if you don't have a cast-iron pot. Just ensure that it has a lid and is suitable for stovetop cooking.

Absolutely! Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. You have the freedom to experiment with your preferred herbs.

Absolutely! It's a perfect meal-prepping recipe. Increase the quantities of all the ingredients proportionally and adjust the cooking time as necessary. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it is properly cooked. 

Certainly! For best results, start by pan-searing the chicken in a skillet. Then, transfer it to the electric pressure cooker along with the broth. Cook it under high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Finally, carefully open the lid and remove the cooked meat.

Absolutely! If you have vegetable broth, you can replace the chicken broth with it. Remember that the flavor profile will be slightly different from the intended result.

📖 Recipe

Keto shredded chicken.

Keto Shredded Chicken

Elevate your keto meal plan with our versatile and flavorful Keto Shredded Chicken—seasoned with Cajun spices, tenderly simmered, and perfect for salads, wraps, stir-fries, and more!
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Course: Side Dish
Keyword: keto chicken, low carb, Rotisserie chicken, Shredded chicken
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 3
Calories: 370kcal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Apply Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper on each side of the chicken filet.
  • Warm up the olive oil in a cast-iron pot on medium-high heat.
  • Add the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot oil, searing each side for 2-3 minutes.
  • Once the chicken develops a golden-brown crust, add the chicken broth. Lower the heat to medium and place a lid on the pot.
  • Allow it to simmer in the broth for around 25 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken from the pot and put it into a large mixing bowl.
  • Using a hand mixer set to low speed, shred the chicken breasts to your desired texture. If you don't have a hand mixer, you can also use two forks to do the job.
  • Place the shredded chicken onto a plate for serving. Drizzle some of the cooked broth over the chicken shreds for added flavor, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

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Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Shredded Chicken
Amount Per Serving
Calories 370 Calories from Fat 144
% Daily Value*
Fat 16g25%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Trans Fat 0.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 9g
Cholesterol 145mg48%
Sodium 311mg14%
Potassium 1005mg29%
Carbohydrates 3g1%
Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugar 0.3g0%
Protein 51g102%
Vitamin A 725IU15%
Vitamin C 3mg4%
Calcium 21mg2%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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