Shredded chicken

Regular chicken can be a challenge to eat as it is more chewy than, for example, nuggets (where the meat is soft).

A good start may be with shredded chicken as it’s easier to eat than ‘chunks’.

As always, thinking small is the best option.

Pairing with a food that our child is familiar with can also scaffold a step forwards.

In the photo I have cut mini circles from a home-made wrap (store-bought, bread, toast or crackers could also be an option).

I have shown the shredded chicken on its own but have also paired with a cheesy sauce and with some ketchup.

Choosing whatever is a hit for a child does often help to bridge the gap between refusal and acceptance.

Mixing the chicken into something else, may or may not be supportive. It can though be positive:
– Be more attractive as one food is a favourite
– Mask the full taste of the chicken until a comfort level is built
– Make the texture more manageable

Judith is an AOTA accredited picky eating advisor and internationally certified nutritional therapist. She works with 100+ families every year resolving fussy eating and returning pleasure and joy to the meal table.
She is also mum to two boys and the author of Creating Confident Eaters and Winner Winner I Eat Dinner. Her dream is that every child is able to approach food from a place of safety and joy, not fear.
Learn more about Judith here: https://theconfidenteater.com/about/