Boiled Chicken is an easy and versatile way to prepare chicken that results in tender, juicy meat. Whether youβre making chicken for a salad, soup, or simply need cooked chicken on hand, this method is simple and ensures great flavor.
π Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) π
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor) π§
- 1 teaspoon salt π§
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper πΆοΈ
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled (optional) π§
- 1 onion, quartered (optional) π§
- 1-2 bay leaves (optional) πΏ
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional) πΏ
π Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a pot:
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a large pot in a single layer.
2. Add Liquid and Seasonings:
- Add water or broth:
- Pour in enough water (or chicken broth) to cover the chicken by about 1 inch.
- Add seasonings:
- Add salt, pepper, garlic cloves, onion, bay leaves, and herbs to the pot for added flavor.
3. Boil the Chicken:
- Bring to a boil:
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a gentle boil.
- Reduce to a simmer:
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the chicken simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165Β°F (74Β°C).
4. Check for Doneness:
- Test the chicken:
- To check if the chicken is done, remove one piece and cut into the thickest part. The meat should be opaque and no longer pink, or you can use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165Β°F (74Β°C).
5. Serve or Store:
- Remove and rest:
- Use tongs to remove the chicken from the pot. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
- Save the broth:
- Optionally, strain the cooking liquid and use it as a base for soups or sauces.
π½οΈ Tips:
- Flavor boost: Using chicken broth instead of water and adding herbs will give the chicken more flavor.
- Shredding: For easy shredding, use two forks to pull the chicken apart while itβs still warm.
- Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
β±οΈ Preparation Time: 5 minutes
β±οΈ Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
π½οΈ Servings: 4
π₯ Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
This Boiled Chicken recipe is simple, healthy, and perfect for meal prep, salads, sandwiches, soups, and more! π²π