If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy protein option to add to your meal prep repertoire, look no further than this Optavia Shredded Chicken recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of an Instant Pot, you can have tender, juicy, and versatile shredded chicken ready to use in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re following the Optavia program or simply seeking a delicious way to enjoy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Preparation Time In Minutes: 5 minutes
Cooking Time In Minutes: 12 minutes (plus 15 minutes for natural depressurization)
Recipe Summary:
This Optavia Shredded Chicken recipe yields perfectly cooked and seasoned chicken that can be used in salads, wraps, sandwiches, soups, and more. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process a breeze, and the natural juices from the chicken itself enhance the flavors. With no need for water, this recipe ensures a rich and nutritious chicken stock for future use as well.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast, fresh or frozen (any amount you prefer, typically 2 pounds)
- Your favorite seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. If using frozen chicken, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand.
- Sprinkle your favorite seasonings over the chicken to add a burst of flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. A combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper works wonderfully.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the seasoned chicken. The olive oil will help lock in moisture and create a delightful texture.
- With all the ingredients in the Instant Pot, you won’t need to add any water. The chicken will release its natural juices during the cooking process, resulting in a succulent and tender outcome.
- Place the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure it is properly sealed. Select the POULTRY setting, which typically cooks for 12 minutes. The Instant Pot will start building up pressure and cooking the chicken to perfection.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to depressurize naturally for 15 minutes. This step is essential to ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
- Carefully open the Instant Pot lid after the depressurization period and remove the perfectly cooked chicken.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be so tender that it will easily fall apart.
- Now you have a batch of delicious Optavia Shredded Chicken! Store any leftover chicken stock in an airtight container for later use in soups or stews.
Optavia Shredded Chicken Recipe
Enjoy your Optavia Shredded Chicken in salads, wraps, tacos, or any other dish of your choice. This versatile protein option is perfect for meal prepping and will add a healthy and flavorful touch to your meals throughout the week!