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Mexican Shredded Chicken

Juicy Mexican Shredded Chicken in Just 20 Minutes

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A flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican shredded chicken recipe perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.52 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for skillet, if needed
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • juice and zest of one lime
  • lime wedges and fresh cilantro for serving, optional

Instructions

  1. Mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and lime juice and zest in a small bowl.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in a container, bowl, or large plastic bag. Pour the marinade on top and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and sear without moving for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Flip the chicken and sear the other side until cooked through (165°F), about 5-10 minutes.
  5. Remove chicken from skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred with two forks.
  6. Optional: Return shredded chicken to skillet to coat in cooking juices.
  7. Serve with lime juice and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs.
  • Adjust cooking time based on thickness and size of chicken.
  • Covering the skillet with a lid can speed up cooking.
  • Author: Livia Reed
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg