Step 1

Place chicken in large dutch oven or pot and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Add onion, bay leaves and garlic.

Step 3

Cover the chicken and other ingredients completely with water (about 1 inch above the ingredients) and bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 4

Reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until it is fully cooked through and a meat thermometer reads 165°F.

Step 5

Remove chicken using a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate. Let cool for 5 minutes and shred with a fork.