Learn how to shred chicken with a mixer the easy way for all of your favorite recipes calling for cooking chicken! Plus we share our favorite cooking methods, recipe tips, and a chicken shredding video too. Great for meal prep or storing in the freezer for later.
Allow the Chicken to Cool: After cooking the chicken, let it cool slightly so it is safe to handle. It should still be warm to the touch.
Cut the Chicken: If you're using large chicken breasts, cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Place Chicken in the Mixing Bowl: Put the pieces of cooked chicken into the bowl of your stand mixer, or if you're using a hand mixer, a large mixing bowl.
Attach the Paddle Attachment: If you're using a stand mixer, attach the paddle attachment. If you're using a hand mixer, regular beaters work fine.
Start on a Low Speed: Begin mixing on a low speed (2 on a Kitchen-Aid) to avoid over-shredding the chicken or causing it to fly out of the bowl. Once the chicken begins to break up, you can increase the speed of the mixer slightly.
Mix Until Shredded to Your Liking: Continue mixing until the chicken is shredded to your preference, keep a close eye on it! It only takes 20-30 seconds to shred chicken. Do a fine shred for recipes like dips, a medium shred for chicken salad, and a larger shred for casseroles, tacos, enchiladas, soups, etc.
Use Immediately or Store for Later: You can use the shredded chicken immediately in your favorite recipes, or store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Enjoy!
Notes
Even on a setting of 2, the Kitchen Aid will shred the chicken very finely and very quickly. If you aren't looking for a fine shred, we suggest shredding chicken with two forks instead.The recipe will work for cooked boneless skinless chicken breast meat, chicken tenders, or chicken thighs.