Shredded Chicken from Costa Vida features tender, slow-cooked chicken seasoned with a blend of southwestern spices, served warm and juicy with a slightly smoky flavor, perfect for adding rich protein to burritos, salads, or bowls.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or crockpot
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Forks (for shredding)
- Tongs
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle or large spoon
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- Juice of 1 lime
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ensures the shredded chicken stays tender and juicy after slow cooking. The combination of chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano creates the distinctive southwestern spice blend that defines Costa Vida's flavors. Fresh ingredients like onion, garlic, and lime juice enhance the aroma and balance the spice heat with brightness. Make sure to use chicken broth for slow cooking to keep the meat moist and infuse additional flavor. Your shredded chicken from Costa Vida copycat menu will achieve authentic taste and texture by following these ingredient tips carefully.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken.
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green chiles to the slow cooker.
- Pour chicken broth around the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken to a cutting board.
- Shred chicken using forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Squeeze in lime juice and stir to combine.
- Let the chicken soak in the juices for 10–15 minutes on warm.
- Serve warm in burritos, salads, or bowls.
Substitution
Shredded Chicken from Costa Vida copycat menu delivers tender, slow-cooked chicken infused with southwestern spices and a smoky flavor. If you don't have chicken broth, substitute with vegetable broth or water enhanced with a bouillon cube to maintain the savory richness. When using chicken thighs instead of breasts, expect slightly juicier and more flavorful meat due to higher fat content. Should you lack a slow cooker, cooking in a covered pan on low heat for a few hours also yields tender results, though shredding might be less uniform. Your choice of seasoning can be adjusted based on heat preference; reduce cayenne pepper for milder taste or increase it for extra spice.
Tips
Make sure to cook the chicken until it is tender enough to shred easily with forks, as undercooked chicken will be tough and dry. You should rub the chicken evenly with olive oil before adding spices to ensure maximum flavor absorption. Keep the slow cooker covered to maintain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out during the long cooking process. After shredding, allow the chicken to soak in the juices for 10-15 minutes to enhance juiciness and balance the smoky, southwestern spices.
Nutritions
Your shredded chicken from Costa Vida is an excellent source of lean protein, providing about 43 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving. The inclusion of spices such as chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, enhancing your meal's nutritional value. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats while chicken broth keeps the dish moist without adding excess calories. This combination supports muscle repair and sustained energy, making it ideal for balanced meals like burritos, salads, or bowls.
Storage
Store your shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its tender texture and smoky flavor. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in portioned freezer bags or containers, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve juiciness and spice integrity.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken breasts for thighs to achieve a juicier, more flavorful shredded chicken due to their higher fat content. Instead of slow cooking, poaching the chicken in broth with spices on the stovetop for about 30 minutes can speed up the process without sacrificing tenderness. For a smoky depth, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce in place of diced green chiles. Fresh cilantro or a dash of smoky liquid smoke can be stirred in right before serving to elevate the aroma and taste.
Allergies
Shredded Chicken from Costa Vida contains common allergens such as garlic and onions, which may trigger sensitivities in some individuals. The blend of southwestern spices, including chili powder and cayenne pepper, could cause reactions if you have spice allergies or intolerances. Always check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare provider if you are concerned about potential allergic reactions to these seasonings.
Why this recipe?
The Shredded Chicken menu from Costa Vida offers tender, flavorful chicken seasoned with a blend of Southwest spices, creating a satisfying and protein-packed meal you will love. Its versatility in tacos, burritos, bowls, and salads makes it a favorite choice for those seeking a nutritious yet indulgent dining experience. Trying to make a copycat version lets you customize the spice level and ingredients to match your personal taste while enjoying the fresh, homemade quality. Your kitchen can recreate the exact balance of smoky, savory flavors that make this dish stand out at Costa Vida.