Shredded Chicken for Enchiladas, Tostadas, Tacos
This is an authentic filling used for Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tostadas, and tacos. You can easily double the recipe, as it freezes well. I always have some on hand in the freezer. Use this in place of plain shredded chicken, and it will kick an average Mexican recipe up a notch. A whole frying chicken, giblets and excess fat removed, can be used instead of boneless chicken breasts.
This is an authentic filling used for Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tostadas, and tacos. You can easily double the recipe, as it freezes well. I always have some on hand in the freezer. Use this in place of plain shredded chicken, and it will kick an average Mexican recipe up a notch. A whole frying chicken, giblets and excess fat removed, can be used instead of boneless chicken breasts.
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons butter
- water
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 4 boneless chicken breast halves
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- 1/2 medium onion sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper chopped
- 2 garlic cloves smashed
- 1 medium tomatoes seeded and chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (reserved)
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped (or to taste)
- Carbohydrate 2.40189903155181 g
- Cholesterol 28.3726250026162 mg
- Fat 5.6755989084147 g
- Fiber 0.652051290007404 g
- Protein 7.84553686751198 g
- Saturated Fat 2.40342173242603 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (85g)
- Sodium 501.188991192057 mg
- Sugar 1.74984774154441 g
- Trans Fat 0.477695838326134 g
- Calories 92 calories
Step-by-step
- Place first four ingredients in a pot.
- Add just enough water to cover the chicken.
- Bring to a slow boil, cover, lower heat to maintain a simmer and cook until done, about 20 - 25 minutes. If using a whole chicken; cook approximately 50 - 60 minutes.
- Remove chicken from pot, let cool and shred. (I cool my chicken in the refrigerator to be safe)
- If using a whole chicken; remove meat from bones and shred.
- Reserve broth.
- In a large pan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add the remaining ingredients listed, except tomato sauce, salt, and broth.
- Sauté until soft, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and briefly sauté.
- Add tomato sauce and ½ cup of reserved broth.
- Salt to taste.
My Secret Weapon for Effortless Mexican Meals: Amazing Shredded Chicken
As a busy mom of three, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, soccer practice, and the ever-present need to get dinner on the table. That’s why I’ve developed a few go-to recipes that are both delicious and incredibly efficient. One of my absolute favorites? This ridiculously simple shredded chicken recipe. It's become my secret weapon for creating quick and flavorful Mexican dishes.
This isn't just any shredded chicken; this is flavor-packed shredded chicken. It's the base for countless meals, transforming even the simplest tacos or enchiladas into something truly special. I started making this recipe years ago, back when I was still figuring out the art of weeknight dinners. The beauty of it is its versatility. I use it in tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, salads, you name it! And the best part? It freezes beautifully, so I always have a stash ready to go in my freezer. Think of it as my culinary insurance policy – a guarantee against those hectic evenings when inspiration (and energy!) are low.
The process itself is incredibly straightforward. It all starts with basic pantry staples: onions, garlic, cumin, and a touch of marjoram. These humble ingredients combine to create a rich and aromatic base, infusing the chicken with a depth of flavor that you won't find in your average rotisserie chicken. I've experimented with different spice combinations over the years, but this recipe has become my tried-and-true favorite. It's a perfect balance of warm spices and fresh herbs.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your personal tastes. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. Prefer a milder flavor? Simply reduce the amount of cumin or omit the marjoram entirely. You can even substitute the chicken breasts with a whole roasted chicken—it's a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, too!
But the real magic lies in the versatility. I've used this shredded chicken in countless recipes, often improvising based on what I have on hand. One night, it might be the star of a quick and easy taco night, filled with all our family’s favorites. The next, it becomes the foundation for a hearty enchilada casserole, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Sometimes, I even use it to top salads, adding a protein boost and a burst of flavor.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and efficiency. Unlike other recipes that require a multitude of steps and ingredients, this one is remarkably straightforward. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal that doesn't compromise on flavor. The prep time is minimal, and the cooking time is even less. Within minutes, you'll have a delicious and versatile ingredient ready to transform your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary.
So, if you're looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen, look no further. This shredded chicken recipe is a true lifesaver, a culinary secret weapon that will help you conquer busy weeknights and create delicious, satisfying meals for your family, time and time again. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again, because it's just that good. And because it saves time, and leaves more time for the things that really matter.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Use Your Shredded Chicken
The uses for this versatile shredded chicken are endless. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Classic Tacos: A quick and easy weeknight meal.
- Enchiladas: A hearty and satisfying casserole.
- Tostadas: Crispy tortillas topped with the flavorful chicken.
- Chicken Salad: A refreshing and healthy lunch option.
- Quesadillas: A simple and cheesy treat.
- Burritos: A perfect grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
- Salads: Add a protein boost to your favorite salad.
- Nachos: A fun and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Chicken Pot Pie: A comforting and classic dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: A healthy and flavorful option.
Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, not a source of stress. This recipe is designed to make your life easier, freeing you up to spend more time with your loved ones and less time slaving over a hot stove.
