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Boiled Chicken Breast

Boiled Chicken Breast Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each)
  • 6 cups cold water
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • Optional: a few garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and a bay leaf

Method
 

  1. Place the water, salt, and any aromatics in a medium pot. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and let the water return to a bubble, then lower the heat to a bare simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken and test with a thermometer reading 160°F to 165°F. Rest 5 minutes on a cutting board, then slice or shred.

Notes

If your chicken breasts are very thick, they may need up to 15 minutes. Let them rest in the warm poaching liquid off the heat for an extra few minutes if needed, then check again.