Description
Boil Chicken Breast is a simple and efficient method for preparing juicy, tender chicken every time. Lean chicken breasts are gently simmered in seasoned water with garlic, lemon, herbs, and a bay leaf, infusing delicate flavors into the meat. This approach ensures moist results, ideal for salads, sandwiches, or meal prep. Easy, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2–3 lemon slices
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups cold water
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer in a deep skillet or saucepan.
- Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add salt, garlic, lemon slices, bay leaf, and optional herbs.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing or shredding.
- Optionally, strain and reserve poaching liquid for use as a light chicken broth.
Notes
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer taste or use boneless, skin-on pieces for extra flavor. Try herbs like parsley or dill if you don’t have thyme or rosemary. Cooked chicken can be made ahead, stored airtight in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for 2 months. If chicken is tough, it’s likely overcooked—use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Leftover broth is great for soups.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 170g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 612mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 73mg