Boiling chicken breast is a quick and easy way to get tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for shredding, sandwiches, casseroles, and more! In just under 30 minutes, we’ll guide you to the perfect poached chicken, guaranteed to be delicious every time!
BOILED CHICKEN BREAST IS SO EASY!
Boiling chicken breast is one of the easiest ways to prepare tender, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken perfect for any recipe that calls for pre-cooked chicken. Ideal for dishes like Chicken Chili Casserole, chicken salad, Keto Chicken Casserole, or to add to soups and sandwiches, this method ensures your chicken is ready for whatever you have in mind.
Our boiled chicken breast recipe is perfect for meal prep, helping you keep healthy options on hand all week long. With just two simple ingredients, you’ll have delicious chicken that’s ready to be diced, cubed, or shredded into any meal. Instead of over-boiling and drying out the chicken, we’ll show you the exact technique for perfectly moist, flavorful chicken every time.
This recipe is also great for gluten-free, low-carb, paleo, keto, dairy-free, and Whole30 diets, making it a go-to for healthy meal prep. And if you’re looking for ways to use all the boiled chicken you make, check out our recipes for Buffalo Chicken Dip, Keto Chicken Taco Salad, or Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas!
Chicken is such a versatile protein, perfect for a wide range of recipes. Don’t miss our guides on making Instant Pot Chicken Tenders, cooking Frozen Chicken Breast in the Instant Pot, or How to Shred Chicken with a KitchenAid Mixer for even more easy and delicious chicken ideas!
INGREDIENTS
- 4 chicken breasts, fresh or frozen (about 10 oz each)
- 1 quart chicken broth (4 cups) or water with added salt
INSTRUCTIONS
- Place frozen chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with cold chicken broth (or water with added salt if preferred).
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the chicken rest in the broth for an additional 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and shred using forks, meat claws, or an electric mixer.
- Use in your favorite recipes, such as salads, casseroles, soups, and more!
NOTES
- Customize the broth with seasonings based on the dish you’re preparing, like lemon, ginger, Italian seasoning, curry, or taco seasoning.
- Serve as a main dish with rice, quinoa, or vegetables.
- Add to salads, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, or casseroles for easy meals.
- We used two 1.6 lb packages of chicken breasts in a Dutch oven, with one quart of broth to fully cover the chicken. Larger chicken breasts may take slightly longer to cook; smaller pieces may require less resting time.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.