PF
Mouth-watering close-up of Mexican tacos with avocado, cheese, and vegetables on a plate.
Stovetop~25 minComplexity

Mexican Shredded Chicken

This Mexican Shredded Chicken delivers 52g protein and 338 calories per serving — one of the highest protein-to-calorie ratios in our Mexican section. Yields 3 servings via quick stovetop cooking, serving as a protein base for multiple meals throughout the week. Ideal for building custom bowls while staying under daily calorie targets.

Rate this recipe:

Ingredients

3 servings
  • Chicken Breast, Boneless Skinless(680g)

    Boneless skinless. Buy in bulk and freeze — Costco rotisserie packs work too.

  • Chili powder(10g)
  • Garlic powder(3g)
  • Onion powder(3g)
  • Oregano, Dried(3g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Chili powder(1g)
  • Olive oil(15g)

    Regular (not extra-virgin) olive oil for high-heat cooking. EVOO for dressings.

  • Low Sodium Chicken Broth(120g)

    Any carton chicken broth labeled "low sodium." Swanson or store brand.

Instructions

  1. 1Place the chicken breast on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until evenly flattened to about ¾-inch thickness.
  2. 2In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  3. 3Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1–2 minutes. Carefully place the chicken presentation-side down and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until golden brown on the first side.
  4. 4Flip the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for 4–8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
  5. 5Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let cool for 2–3 minutes, then shred using two forks or by hand into bite-sized pieces.
  6. 6Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, add the low-sodium chicken broth, and stir to combine. Partially cover and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes until flavors meld and the mixture reaches a cohesive consistency.
  7. 7Divide the shredded chicken evenly into 3 airtight containers while still warm, allowing steam to escape before sealing.
  8. 8Cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate up to 4 days, or freeze up to 3 months. Use for tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, or nachos.

Nutrition — Per Serving

338

calories

52g

protein

12g

fat

Carbohydrates
4g
Saturated fat
2.1g
Sodium
261 mg
Dietary fiber
1.9g

3 servings per batch · ~278g each

Macro data sourced from USDA FoodData Central

+ Add to Meal Plan

AI Swap Engine

Swap any ingredient and get recalculated macros instantly.

Set up your profile to unlock

Common questions

How much protein does Mexican Shredded Chicken have per serving?

Each serving contains 52g of protein and 338 calories with minimal carbs (4g), making it an extremely protein-dense option. The macro split is 12g fat and 4g carbs, so you're getting lean protein with almost no carbohydrate load.

How long does Mexican Shredded Chicken take to prep?

This recipe qualifies as quick prep and yields 3 servings, so you can have a high-protein snack or meal component ready in minimal time. It's designed for stovetop cooking, making it fast for weekday meal assembly.

Is Mexican Shredded Chicken good for fat loss?

At 338 calories and 52g protein per serving, this recipe is highly effective for fat loss phases where protein intake stays high while managing total calories. The 4g carbs and 12g fat keep energy expenditure predictable while preserving muscle during a deficit.

Beef and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Stovetop · 8 servings

45g protein333 cal14g fat
Complexity
View Recipe →+ Plan

Breakfast Burritos with Beef, Bacon, and Honey

Stovetop · 8 servings

48g protein450 cal14g fat
Complexity
View Recipe →+ Plan

Beef Chili

Stovetop · 8 servings

57g protein502 cal12g fat
Complexity
View Recipe →+ Plan

Breakfast Burritos with Beef and Eggs

Stovetop · 8 servings

50g protein500 cal fat
Complexity
View Recipe →+ Plan