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How Long to Boil Chicken Breast – Complete Guide for Juicy

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Learn exactly how long to boil chicken breast for juicy, tender, and flavorful results every time. This simple and healthy method is perfect for meal prep, salads, wraps, and soups.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoonsalt
  • 2garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2–3lemon slices
  • 1bay leaf
  • 4 cupscold water
  • Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts in a single layer in a deep skillet or saucepan.
  2. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add salt, garlic, lemon slices, bay leaf, and optional herbs.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
  5. Check internal temperature using a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from the water and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing or shredding.
  7. Optionally, strain and reserve the poaching liquid to use as a light chicken broth.

Notes

Boiled chicken is perfect for salads, wraps, grain bowls, and soups. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.delicetreats.com/how-long-to-boil-chicken-breast/