Tacos are a popular Mexican dish that have become loved all around the world. They typically consist of a tortilla that is filled with protein, veggies, cheese, and sauce. Chicken is one of the most common proteins used in tacos. When making tacos for a crowd, it’s important to figure out how much shredded chicken you need to make enough tacos for everyone. In this article, we will break down how to determine how much shredded chicken to use when making 30 tacos.
Factors That Determine How Much Shredded Chicken is Needed
There are a few key factors that determine how much shredded chicken you need for 30 tacos:
Amount of chicken per taco
The most important factor is how much shredded chicken you want to put in each taco. This can range quite a bit based on personal preferences and the other taco fillings. Anywhere from 1-4 ounces of chicken per taco is common. For the purposes of this estimate, we’ll assume 2 ounces of chicken per taco.
Allowing for leftovers
It’s always smart to shred a little extra chicken than precisely the minimum needed. This allows for inaccuracies in shredding and provides extras in case some tacos need a bit more filling. Assuming about 10% extra is a safe estimate.
Adjusting for reduces mass after cooking
Raw chicken reduces in mass after it is cooked. How much it reduces depends on the cut and cooking method. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are simmered or roasted, you can estimate a 25-30% reduction in weight after cooking.
Calculating Shredded Chicken Needed
Taking these factors into account, here is a step-by-step method to calculate the amount of raw chicken needed:
Step 1 – Determine amount of chicken per taco
For this recipe, we are assuming 2 oz chicken per taco
Step 2 – Calculate total chicken needed for 30 tacos
– 30 tacos x 2 oz chicken per taco = 60 oz total chicken
Step 3 – Add 10% for leftovers
– 60 oz x 0.10 (10%) = 6 oz extra
– 60 oz + 6 oz = 66 oz total
Step 4 – Adjust for 25% reduced mass after cooking
– 66 oz raw chicken x 0.25 (25% reduction) = 16.5 oz reduced
– 66 oz + 16.5 oz = 82.5 oz raw chicken needed
Step 5 – Convert ounces to pounds
– There are 16 oz in 1 lb
– 82.5 oz / 16 oz per lb = 5.2 lbs raw chicken needed
Summary of Shredded Chicken Needed for 30 Tacos
Based on the calculations above, for 30 tacos with 2 oz chicken each, allowing for 10% leftovers and 25% reduction after cooking, you will need approximately 5.2 lbs of raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
This raw chicken weight should produce around 66 oz (about 4 lbs) of cooked, shredded chicken to sufficiently fill 30 tacos with a bit extra.
Purchasing and Preparing the Chicken
When purchasing chicken, it’s best to buy it in larger bulk packages to get the best value per pound. Many grocery stores stock packages of chicken breasts around 3 lbs or more.
To get 5.2 lbs of chicken, you would want to purchase:
- One 3 lb package of chicken breasts
- One 2.5 lb package of chicken breasts
Or alternatively, purchase two 3 lb packages which would provide 6 lbs of chicken total. The extra amount will help ensure you have enough even with variances in actual weights and chicken sizes.
To cook the chicken:
- Rinse the chicken and pat dry
- Season as desired (salt, pepper, spices)
- Bake at 375F or simmer in liquid like chicken broth until cooked through (160-165F internal temperature)
- Shred the chicken with two forks
The shredded chicken can be used right away or stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days until ready to make the tacos.
Cost Considerations
The cost of the chicken can vary based on sales, brands, and source. On average expect to pay around $3 to $4 per pound of chicken breasts.
For 5.2 pounds of chicken the total cost would be:
- 5.2 lbs chicken
- $3.50 per lb average cost
- 5.2 lbs x $3.50 per lb = $18.20
So the total cost of the chicken needed for the 30 tacos would be around $18.
When serving tacos for a crowd it’s also important to factor in costs for the tortillas, taco toppings, sauces, sides and any other ingredients. But the protein is often one of the biggest line items.
Tips for Saving Money
Here are some tips for saving money when purchasing the chicken for tacos:
- Check weekly ads and buy when chicken breasts go on sale
- Look for family packs or value packs for better per pound pricing
- Watch for price reductions on chicken nearing its sell-by date
- Buy in bulk quantities and portion and freeze what you don’t immediately need
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts to save around $1/lb or more
Serving Suggestions
Shredded chicken tacos are crowd-pleasers for many different gatherings and events. Consider serving the 30 chicken tacos at:
- Game-day watch parties
- Birthday parties for kids or adults
- Backyard barbecues
- Family potlucks
- Church or community events
- Vacation or camping meals
- Dinner with a large family or group of friends
Set up a taco bar with shells and let guests build their own custom tacos. Offer suggested additional toppings like:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Jalapeños
- Black olives
- Pico de gallo
- Corn
Serve with Mexican-inspired sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, chips and guacamole.
Recipe Ideas
Shredded chicken is very versatile for all kinds of great taco recipes. Here are a few flavorful ideas:
Simple Shredded Chicken Tacos
The classic simple taco flavored with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Top with traditional lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.
Chipotle Chicken Tacos
Marinate the chicken in adobo sauce from canned chipotle chiles before shredding. Top with avocado slices and cilantro.
Fajita Chicken Tacos
Season chicken with fajita seasoning or chili powder, cumin, garlic, oregano. Saute peppers and onions to add.
BBQ Chicken Tacos
Toss shredded chicken in your favorite bbq sauce. Top with coleslaw and pickled red onions.
Greek Chicken Tacos
Use lemon juice, garlic, oregano and yogurt to marinate the chicken. Top with tzatziki sauce, feta and spinach.
Hawaiian Chicken Tacos
Add pineapple and teriyaki to the chicken. Top with mango salsa and shredded cabbage.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Toss spicy buffalo sauce with the shredded chicken. Serve with blue cheese dressing and celery.
The options are endless for flavorful chicken taco recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a great budget-friendly option that is often cheaper per pound than chicken breasts. Follow the same steps but reduce the cooked chicken weight by about 10-15% since chicken thighs don’t shrink as much with cooking.
How long does shredded chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked and shredded chicken stored properly in an airtight container will last 3-4 days refrigerated. Be sure to reheat fully to 165F before serving if not using right after cooking.
Can I freeze extra shredded chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken freezes very well for up to 3-4 months. Portion it out in freezer bags or containers before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before using again.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it myself?
Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a shortcut option if you don’t want to cook the chicken yourself. About 2 rotisserie chickens would provide enough meat for the 30 tacos after shredding.
What if I’m serving more or fewer people?
The calculations can be easily adapted for any number of servings. The key steps are determining chicken per taco, adding a bit extra, and adjusting for cook loss. Increase or reduce the amounts as needed.
Conclusion
Figuring out how much shredded chicken is required for tacos is a helpful calculation for taco recipes serving any size crowd. By following the steps outlined, you can determine the right amount of raw chicken needed to end up with the desired cooked, shredded chicken. Getting the protein amounts right goes a long way in preparing and budgeting for delicious taco meals. With the proper amounts of shredded chicken ready to go, you can look forward to throwing a fantastic taco fiesta!