Learn how long to boil chicken breasts to get perfectly tender, moist, and flavorful chicken every time. Grab our tips on how to quickly add flavor to boneless, skinless, chicken breasts while boiling to shred for recipes or serve as is.
If you are looking for a juicy and tender way to cook chicken breasts then look no further than this recipe for boiled chicken. Forget dry, tough, and chewy chicken breasts – this simple method ensures that doesn’t happen!
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Boiled chicken is one of the best ways to cook a tender piece of chicken that is full of flavor.
Over the years we’ve tried a variety of ways to cook chicken breasts – attempting to find the best cooking method. Boiled chicken is by far one of our favorite ways. No one complains about dry chicken and everyone loves recipes made whether this chicken is served plain or shredded. If we are not cooking frozen chicken breasts in the instant pot, then we are boiling chicken.
Boiled chicken can be enjoyed as is or shredded to add to your favorite recipes. You will be amazed at its versatility. As a dietitian and mom, I highly recommend boiling chicken for any future chicken dish – it saves you time, effort, doesn’t use any additional fat for cooking, and creates a meal the whole family will enjoy.
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To get started, gather the equipment and ingredients then follow the step-by-step instructions to make juicy and flavorful chicken.
Table of Contents
Equipment
- large skillet
- measuring spoons
- tongs
- liquid measuring cup
- cutting board
- chefs knife or 2 forks
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 3 large cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 3 stalks parsley (optional)
- water
How To Boil Chicken Breasts
- Prepare the chicken breasts. Add chicken breasts to a large skillet. Season with salt. Add garlic, peppercorns, and parsley if using.
- Add water and bring to a boil. The water should completely cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer. Cook for about 12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Shred or slice chicken to use in recipes or as is. If shredding, use two forks to pull apart the meat. Use in your favorite recipes or serve as is.
Related: 20 Flavorful Kid-Friendly Chicken Breast Recipes
Tips
- Choose any liquid for boiling – water, broth, apple cider vinegar, dry white wine or beer.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the number and size of chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Add vegetables to the skillet during boiling for an extra boost of flavor. Great way to use up any leftover vegetables (celery, carrots, onions) that are in the fridge.
- Switch up the spices based on your preference. Peppercorns and parsley is just one of the many seasoning combinations.
- Smash the garlic prior to adding to the skillet. This allows the oils from the garlic to infuse into the liquid and add even more flavor to the chicken.
- If shredding, let the chicken rest for 8-10 minutes then shred – this helps to keep the chicken moist. Learn How To Shred Chicken In Kitchenaid.
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts (instead of bone-in) for a shorter cooking time.
FAQs:
Shredded Chicken Recipes:
- Chicken A La King
- Shredded Chicken Skillet Nachos
- Shredded Chicken Quesadilla
- BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Pulled Chicken Shawarma Sliders
If you enjoyed these recipes make sure to leave a comment and a star rating below! Then follow me on social media and tag #createkidsclub if you make the recipe. I love seeing what you come up with!
