For baby-led weaning, chicken must be cooked until very tender and cut into safe shapes.
When babies can eat chicken
Babies can eat chicken from around 6 months when starting solids.
Chicken must be fully cooked and soft enough to mash between your fingers. Shredded or strip-shaped works best.
See our first foods for baby guide for more ideas.
Nutritional benefits for babies
- 💚Protein supports muscle development and growth.
- 💚Iron from meat is well absorbed and crucial after 6 months.
- 💚Versatile - can be added to many baby meals.
How to serve chicken for babies
Shred cooked chicken into long, thin strips. The meat should be very tender - easy to shred with a fork.
Offer strips that babies can hold and gum. Avoid large chunks or dry, tough meat.
How to cut chicken for BLW
For safe shapes and sizes by age, see our detailed How to cut chicken for BLW guide.
Also check how to cut food for baby-led weaning for general BLW cutting tips.
Chicken recipes for babies
Chicken Veggie Nuggets
Chicken & Carrot Purée
Chicken & Zucchini Purée
Chicken & Pumpkin Purée
Chicken, Carrot & Potato Mash
Chicken, Zucchini & Rice Mash
Chicken, Squash & Quinoa Bowl
Chicken Soup
Chicken & Rice Soup
Chicken & Vegetable Porridge
Chicken & Rice Porridge
Chicken, Sweet Potato & Zucchini Bowl
Chicken, Rice & Zucchini Bowl
Chicken, Broccoli & Pasta Stars
Baby Chicken Risotto (Zucchini Version)
Baby Meat Porridge with Rice
Soft Chicken Paprikash (Baby Version)
Chicken BLW Meatballs (Soft)
Greek Chicken + Rice Baby Bowl
Chicken + Lentils + Carrot Comfort Bowl
Pumpkin + Millet + Chicken Evening Porridge
Soft Chicken & Veggie Comfort Stew
See all chicken recipes for babies. Explore baby breakfast recipes, baby-led weaning recipes and first foods for baby for more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can babies eat Chicken?
Yes. Babies can eat Chicken starting around 6 months when they begin solid foods. It should be served in a safe texture and size for babies.
When can babies eat Chicken?
Babies can eat Chicken from around 6 months when starting solids. Babies can eat chicken from around 6 months when starting solids. Chicken must be fully cooked and soft enough to mash between your fingers. Shredded or strip-shaped works best.
Is Chicken a choking hazard for babies?
Chicken is generally safe for babies when prepared properly. Shred cooked chicken into long, thin strips. The meat should be very tender - easy to shred with a fork. Offer strips that babies can hold and gum. Avoid large chunks or dry, tough meat.
Is Chicken a common allergen?
Chicken is not typically a common allergen for babies. Many babies can try it from around 6 months as part of a varied diet.
How should Chicken be served to babies?
Shred cooked chicken into long, thin strips. The meat should be very tender - easy to shred with a fork. Offer strips that babies can hold and gum. Avoid large chunks or dry, tough meat.
What nutrients does Chicken provide for babies?
Chicken provides nutrients like iron, protein that support babies' growth and development.
How long can I store Chicken for babies?
Cook Chicken to a safe temperature and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze in single-serving portions for up to 1 month to preserve nutrients.
Should I buy organic Chicken for my baby?
Organic Chicken isn't strictly necessary for babies, but some families prefer to reduce pesticide exposure. Wash conventional produce thoroughly. Variety and freshness matter most.
How should I introduce Chicken for the first time?
Offer a small amount of Chicken in an age-appropriate texture when your baby is hungry but not starving, ideally early in the day so you can watch for any reactions over several hours.
Is Chicken a good finger food for babies?
Yes. Chicken can be an excellent finger food for babies when cut into strips or soft pieces they can grasp. Make sure the texture mashes easily between your fingers.
What foods pair well with Chicken for baby?
Chicken pairs well with cooked grains like rice or quinoa, soft vegetables like sweet potato and broccoli, and healthy fats to round out a balanced baby meal.
Should I cook Chicken before serving it to my baby?
Yes. Cook Chicken until tender and easily mashable before serving it to your baby. Steaming, boiling, or roasting softens it enough to be safe.
How much Chicken can a baby eat?
There's no fixed amount. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of Chicken from around 6 months and let your baby regulate intake. Breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition in the first year.
Should I peel or remove the pit from Chicken for my baby?
For Chicken, peeling or pitting is usually not required, but wash it well and serve in a size and texture safe for your baby.
How should I store Chicken fresh for my baby?
Store fresh Chicken in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator crisper drawer, depending on the food. Wash just before preparing and use it when ripe and firm for the best quality for your baby.
Safety tips
- ✓Chicken must be fully cooked with no pink inside.
- ✓Ensure chicken is tender enough to shred or cut easily.
- ✓Remove any bones, skin, or gristle.
Make Starting Solids Simple
Nibli helps parents confidently introduce new foods with simple recipes, feeding schedules, and cutting guides.
Try Nibli today to start planning your baby's meals.
verifiedSources & References
This guide is informed by current guidelines from leading health organizations: