How to batch cook chicken for easy meal prep
I don’t do a lot of batch freezer meals because I don’t have a big freezer (I have two fridges instead). However, I stay organized by having a lot of pre-cooked components of meals stored in the freezer.
Some of the pre-cooked components I keep on hand are,
- Cooked rice
- Cooked whole-grain pasta
- Cooked quinoa
- Pre-cooked ground beef, chicken and pork
Today I want to show you a super easy way to batch-cook a flat of chicken breast and turn it into shredded chicken that you can use for multiple meal options. It is a great time saver, and takes no effort at all to pull off!
In the past, I used my slow cooker to make shredded chicken but since getting an instant pot, I have had no need for my slower cooker.
An instant pot is an electric pressure cooker that has all the same functions of a slow cooker but cooks food in half the time.
I have included both methods below,
Slow cooker Instructions
Start by putting all your chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Set on low for 4-6 hours. It really depends on your slow cooker and how hot it gets. But my chicken was done in 4 hours on low, so it probably would be done in 2 hrs on high.
*I drizzled 2 tbsp of olive oil on the chicken and mixed it around to coat each piece.
I shredded a small piece to see it if was done …and it was, so I continued to keep shredding the chicken.
You can drain the liquid out if you want, or keep it in. I like to leave it in, especially if I am freezing the cooked chicken again. It helps keep it moist. But if you are wanting to use the chicken in sandwiches, I recommend draining the liquid before shredding the chicken.
Once you have your shredded chicken made, you can use it throughout the week or freeze it and add it to your freezer inventory list.
Instant Pot Instructions
Add your chicken, 1/2 cup of water or broth to the instant pot.
Secure the lid, close the pressure valve, and cook for 20 minutes at high pressure. If you are putting in frozen chicken, then cook for 30 mins.
Quick release pressure when done.
Some meal ideas that you can use for shredded cooked chicken are here:
- Barbeque Chicken Pizza
- 20-Minute Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Chicken Penne Bake
- Add chicken to salads at lunch
- Make chicken pitas or wraps
I’ve also done this recipe, but I have added in a jar of salsa and 3 tbsp of my homemade fajita spice. When the chicken is done, then you can shred the chicken and have chicken tacos or burritos.
Hopefully, this gives you some tips and ideas on how to save some time in the kitchen! For more ideas, take a look at some of the great recipes from the challengers below!
Take care,
Susan
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