What is the easiest way to shred chicken?
Usually I will just cook it and then tear it to pieces using two forks, but this is still pretty time consuming. Are there any secret ways to easily do this?
Best Answer
Once it's cooled down some, I switch to using my hands ... expecially as it helps to find any bones, globs of fat, etc. I find it goes much faster, particularly if you're dealing with anything other than boneless breast meat.
... but it shreds easiest while it's still warm, so if I'm doing a fair bit, I'll break a bit apart using forks, let that cool, break some more apart with a fork, then shread the first bit before it cools too much, repeat. (so basically, I have one set broken down somewhat to cool faster while I'm shreding an already-cooled off bit).
update as justkt mentioned, the cooking method matters -- roasting and other high heat methods are going to cook the outside faster than the inside. I typically poach my chicken if I'm going to be shreding it -- bring water to a boil, add chicken, bring back to a boil, turn to low, then leave for an hour or two ... the low temp gets it all nice and tender, while the boiling kills surface bacteria.
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Quick Answer about "What is the easiest way to shred chicken?"
With two forks: take your warm, cooked chicken breast and place it on a sturdy cutting board. Place two forks at the center of the breast and pull the chicken apart into pieces. Continue with step 2 and shred the chicken into smaller and smaller pieces until you have the desired sized shreds.What is the easiest and fastest way to shred chicken?
The easiest way to shred chicken is with a hand mixer! Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl, then use a hand mixer on low speed to break the chicken into shreds. It's a complete timesaver, especially if you are making a larger amount.Is it easier to shred chicken hot or cold?
Once the chicken has totally cooked, let it sit for a minute or two to cool before shredding. Pro tip: \u2026but don't wait too long. For easy shredding, it's best to pull the chicken apart while it's still warm.How do you shred chicken without a shredder?
A simple way to shred chicken is to use two forks. Hold one fork in each hand, and use them to pull the meat apart. You can shred the chicken into larger or smaller pieces depending on your needs.More answers regarding what is the easiest way to shred chicken?
Answer 2
Boiling the chicken is the easiest cooking method to prep for shredding. Searing and baking make it a lot more difficult.
I too go with a combination of the two forks and hands (depending on what seems easier at the moment) method.
Answer 3
I just use my hand mixer while it's still hot takes me about 30 seconds!
Answer 4
One method is to use a stand mixer. Put the meat in with the paddle attachment and pulse for a few seconds at a time until shredded.
Answer 5
I recently picked up a pair of Bear Paw Meat Handlers and they actually work quite well for this if you can't wait for the meat to cool down. Hope this helps someone!
Update:
I ended up purchasing some insulated latex cooking gloves which allows me to use my hands even when it's right out of the oven. This is the best method I have found by far!
Answer 6
If I'm shredding it for soup (mmm, tortilla soup), I just use a stick blender.
Answer 7
Boil the chicken and then shred it with two forks.
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