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Looking for easy shredded chicken recipes for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or to use up leftover chicken? These 50 recipes using shredded chicken include soups, salads, sandwiches, casseroles, tacos, and more simple, family-friendly meals.
Jump to: ℹ️ Overview | 🍗 Basic | 🍛 Easy | 🌮 Mexican & Tex-Mex | 🍝 Pasta | 🥗 Salad | 🥪 Wraps & Sandwiches | 🥬 Keto & Low Carb | 🥘 Casseroles | 🍲 Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Need a go-to stash of shredded chicken recipes that aren’t just plain boring? Whether you’ve got leftover roast chicken, a pack of chicken breasts to cook up, or a slow cooker bubbling away, this roundup is packed with easy, practical recipes using shredded chicken to save dinner (and maybe lunch, too).
I’ve collected 50 simple, flavor-packed ideas for busy folks — soups, sandwiches, tacos, casseroles, pasta, and more. There’s something here for every cooking method (slow cooker, Instant Pot, air fryer, you name it) and every craving. And if you’re wondering how to shred chicken the easy way, I’ve got you covered on that, too.
Let’s Start With How To Make Shredded Chicken
Start with one of these foolproof methods, depending on your gear and mood.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Whenever I forget to defrost chicken (again), this instant pot shredded chicken comes to the rescue. It cooks up tender in a fraction of the time and works beautifully for meal prep. Recipe from The Skinnyish Dish.
Sous Vide Shredded Chicken
For ultra-juicy texture, sous vide shredded chicken is hard to beat. I love how evenly it cooks and how the flavor stays locked in. It’s ideal if you like precise, restaurant-style results at home. Recipe from Platings + Pairings.
How to Shred Chicken (Without Losing Your Mind)
Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes—you want it warm, not piping hot. Shredding while it’s still warm is much easier and gives softer strands.
- Two forks: Classic method. Place the chicken on a cutting board or in a shallow bowl, then pull it apart with forks.
- Clean hands: Super effective if the chicken is cool enough to handle. Great for more rustic pieces.
- Mixer magic: Drop the cooked chicken into a large bowl and use a hand mixer (or stand mixer with the paddle). This is a total game-changer if you’re prepping a big batch—done in 30 seconds.
Easy Shredded Chicken Recipes
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy lunch, these are quick and easy.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
On chilly nights, this chicken orzo soup is my answer to comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy. The bright citrus balances the tender shredded chicken beautifully. It’s cozy, nourishing, and family-friendly.
Garlic Chicken Soup
Whenever I feel run down, this chicken soup is my go-to bowl of goodness. The bold garlic flavor pairs perfectly with shredded chicken and soothing broth.
Shredded Chicken And Gravy
Some nights call for real comfort, and this shredded chicken and gravy recipe delivers. I spoon it over mashed potatoes and let that rich sauce do its thing. It’s hearty, simple, and totally satisfying. Recipe from Salt & Lavender.
Chicken And Gnocchi Soup
For creamy comfort, chicken and gnocchi soup never disappoints. The soft gnocchi and tender shredded chicken make it hearty without being complicated. It tastes like something you simmered all afternoon. Recipe from Damn Delicious.
Southwest Chicken Skillet
If you love bold Tex-Mex flavors, this Southwest chicken skillet brings them all in one pan. The shredded chicken soaks up smoky spices and colorful veggies beautifully. It’s budget-friendly and meal-prep gold. Recipe from Budget Bytes.
Mexican & Tex-Mex Style
Taco Tuesdays (and Wednesdays, and Thursdays…) are sorted with these Mexican-inspired shredded chicken recipes.
Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
Nothing beats a tray of shredded chicken enchiladas bubbling in the oven. I love how the sauce wraps around every bite of tender chicken. It’s family-friendly and great for feeding a crowd. Recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes.
Chicken Nachos
Game night calls for chicken nachos loaded with shredded chicken and melty cheese. I love building these with fresh toppings for crunch and color. They’re fun, shareable, and always disappear fast. Recipe from Little Sunny Kitchen.
Shredded Chicken Tacos
Taco night gets better with shredded chicken tacos packed with flavor. I love how juicy chicken pairs with crisp toppings and warm tortillas. They’re high-protein and easy to customize. Recipe from Fit Foodie Finds.
Shredded Chicken Quesadillas
Sometimes simple wins, and shredded chicken quesadillas are proof. The crispy tortilla and gooey filling are hard to resist. I make these when I want comfort without much effort. Recipe from Pinch and Swirl.
Chicken Tinga
For smoky heat, this chicken tinga brings serious flavor. The shredded chicken simmers in a rich, spiced sauce that’s amazing in tacos or bowls. It’s bold but not overwhelming. Recipe from Kitchen Sanctuary.
Smoky Mexican Pulled Chicken
If you love smoky spices, smoky Mexican pulled chicken is a must. I use it in burritos, salads, and rice bowls all week long. It’s flavorful, versatile, and meal-prep friendly. Recipe from Bowl Of Delicious.
Shredded Chicken Pasta Recipes
Creamy, saucy, cheesy goodness—what’s not to love?
Creamy Chicken Orzo
When I want something creamy but not too heavy, this creamy chicken orzo always delivers. The shredded chicken melts right into that silky sauce and tender pasta. It’s cozy, satisfying, and weeknight-friendly.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
On nights when I need dinner fast, this rotisserie chicken pasta saves me. The shredded chicken blends beautifully into a simple, flavorful sauce. It’s family-friendly and wonderfully practical. Recipe from Laura Fuentes.
Chicken Penne Pasta (30 Minute Meal)
For a quick comfort fix, this chicken penne pasta comes together in just 30 minutes. The shredded chicken makes it hearty without extra cooking time. It’s creamy, simple, and great for busy evenings. Recipe from Crazy For Crust.
Salad Recipes With Shredded Chicken
Fresh, crunchy, satisfying—great for lunch or light dinners.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
For classic comfort, these chicken salad sandwiches never go out of style. I love how the shredded chicken stays tender and flavorful in every bite. It’s ideal for lunches, picnics, or easy dinners. Recipe from Kristine’s Kitchen.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
If you like a little kick, this buffalo chicken salad keeps things interesting. The spicy shredded chicken contrasts beautifully with cool, crisp greens. It’s gluten-free and great for a lighter dinner. Recipe from Eating Bird Food.
Miso Ginger Chicken Slaw
When I want bold flavor without heaviness, miso ginger chicken slaw delivers. The shredded chicken blends beautifully with that savory, slightly sweet dressing. It’s crunchy, vibrant, and great for meal prep. Recipe from The Modern Proper.
Wraps & Sandwiches
Quick, handheld meals that are perfect for on-the-go or WFH lunches.
Chicken Salad Wraps
For quick lunches, these chicken salad wraps are always a winner. The shredded chicken makes the filling creamy yet hearty. They’re portable, satisfying, and easy to customize.
Chicken Sandwiches
If you love a loaded sandwich, these chicken sandwiches stacked with shredded chicken are hard to beat. I love layering fresh toppings for crunch and balance. It’s hearty and perfect for casual dinners. Recipe from RecipeTin Eats.
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
When I’m keeping things lighter, these crock pot buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are my go-to. The shredded chicken is spicy and juicy, tucked into crisp lettuce leaves. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with flavor. Recipe from Skinnytaste.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Nothing says easy dinner like a BBQ chicken sandwich piled high with saucy shredded chicken. I love adding crunchy slaw for contrast. It’s simple, satisfying, and great for gatherings. Recipe from Feel Good Foodie.
Chicken Avocado Sandwich
For something fresh and creamy, this chicken avocado sandwich is a lovely balance. The shredded chicken pairs beautifully with buttery avocado and crisp bread. It’s wholesome and filling without feeling heavy. Recipe from Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
More here: Best Chicken Sandwich Ideas
Keto & Low Carb Ideas
Flavor-packed shredded chicken meals without the carbs (or low in carbs).
Casseroles Using Shredded Chicken
Warm, gooey, and great for feeding a crowd (or freezing leftovers).
Chicken Zucchini Casserole
For a veggie-packed bake, this chicken zucchini casserole is wholesome and hearty. The shredded chicken adds protein while zucchini keeps it light. Recipe from iFoodReal.
Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
If you love bold flavors, this salsa verde chicken casserole brings bright, tangy goodness. The shredded chicken soaks up that green sauce beautifully. It’s comforting with a Tex-Mex twist. Recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes.
Shredded Mexican Chicken Casserole
When I need a crowd-pleaser, this shredded Mexican chicken casserole does the job. The layers of seasoned chicken and melty goodness make it hearty and satisfying. It’s family-approved and freezer-friendly. Recipe from Easy Family Recipes.
Slow Cooker & Crockpot Shredded Chicken Recipes
Minimal effort, maximum payoff is the name of the game with these crockpot favorites. Find slow cooker chicken recipes here.
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
When taco night needs to be easy, these crockpot chicken tacos are my answer. The shredded chicken becomes juicy and deeply seasoned with minimal effort. It’s simple, versatile, and always a hit. Recipe from Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
BBQ Shredded Chicken
For easy entertaining, this crockpot BBQ shredded chicken makes life simpler. The sauce turns sticky and flavorful while the chicken stays tender. It’s high-protein and perfect for sandwiches or sliders. Recipe from Healthy Fitness Meals.
Crockpot Crack Chicken
When you want something creamy and comforting, this crockpot crack chicken is rich and satisfying. The shredded chicken blends with savory flavors for a hearty dish. Recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes.
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
For sweet and savory balance, this slow cooker teriyaki chicken is always reliable. The shredded chicken absorbs that glossy sauce beautifully. It’s great for rice bowls and family dinners. Recipe from Dinner At The Zoo.