Easy Grilled Shredded Chicken Recipe for Tacos, Sandwiches & Sliders
If you’re looking for a simple, versatile recipe to keep in your grilling playbook, shredded chicken on the grill is it. Juicy, smoky, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you can make once and use in a dozen different ways — from tacos and BBQ sandwiches to meal prep bowls and nachos for game day. The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners and comes together in under 30 minutes. With just a little seasoning and the right grilling method, you’ll have tender shredded chicken that beats anything you can make indoors.
Grilled Shredded Chicken
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Burn Pit BBQ All Ration (or your favorite rub)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for shredding step)
- Optional: BBQ sauce for mixing after shredding
Instructions
1. Preheat Grill: Set up for medium heat (about 350°F).
2. Season the Chicken: Rub chicken with olive oil and coat generously with seasoning.
3. Grill: Place chicken over direct heat for 4–5 minutes per side to get nice grill marks. Then move to indirect heat, cover, and cook until internal temp hits 165°F (about 20 minutes total).
4. Shred: Remove chicken, place in a pan or bowl, and add chicken broth. Cover for 5 minutes to steam, then shred with two forks.
5. Serve: Use in tacos, sandwiches, wraps, nachos, or toss with BBQ sauce for sliders.
Grilling Tip for Beginners
If you’re cooking a lot of chicken, use a foil pan on the grill for the indirect portion — it keeps the meat juicy and makes shredding and cleanup easier.
Extra Flavor Idea
Mix in a spoonful of your favorite Burn Pit BBQ rub with the shredded chicken and a splash of BBQ sauce for bold, smoky flavor.
FAQ: Grilled Shredded Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs have more fat, which means extra flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, stick with chicken breasts.
Do I need to brine the chicken before grilling?
It’s not required, but a quick 30-minute brine in salted water can make the chicken extra juicy and forgiving if it cooks a little too long.
How do I keep shredded chicken from drying out?
After shredding, mix in a splash of chicken broth or BBQ sauce. This keeps the meat moist and adds flavor.
Can I make shredded chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook, shred, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
You can use two forks, your hands (with gloves), or even a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for a quick batch.
What can I use shredded chicken for?
Tacos, sliders, BBQ sandwiches, nachos, salads, wraps, or meal prep bowls — it’s a versatile base for endless meals.