Chicken
Usually introduced around 6 months
Prep warning
Cook chicken fully until no pink remains. Don't add salt to a baby's portion. Cut tube or round shapes (like sausages or nuggets) lengthwise and then into small pieces.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Cook chicken fully, then purée smooth or finely shred and moisten with breast milk, formula, broth, or a vegetable purée so it isn't dry. Pairing it with a vitamin-C food can help the body use its iron. As an iron-rich first food, it's a good early option.
Smooth purée, or fine moist shreds.
9-12 months
As the pincer grasp develops, offer soft fine shreds or finely chopped chicken as a finger food, or small soft meatballs. Keep it fully cooked and moist, with no added salt, and avoid tough or large chunks.
Fine shreds, small soft pieces, or broken-up meatballs.
12-18 months
Offer bite-size soft pieces, shredded, chopped, or ground. Slow-cook tougher cuts until they pull apart easily. Keep salt low and watch for choking shapes: cut any tube-shaped or round pieces lengthwise and then across.
Pea-size to bite-size soft pieces.
Key nutrients
Meal ideas with Chicken
Common questions
When can my baby eat Chicken?
Most babies can try Chicken from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Chicken a choking hazard for babies?
Chicken is considered a lower choking-risk food when served in age-appropriate sizes and textures. Follow the cut sizes above and always stay close during meals.
Is Chicken a common allergen?
Chicken is not one of the major food allergens. Any new food can still cause a reaction, so keep an eye on your baby the first few times.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
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