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how long to boil chicken breast

How Long to Boil Chicken Breast (Juicy & Tender Every Time)

Learn how to boil chicken breast perfectly every time with this complete guide. Discover how long to boil chicken, what liquids to use, and the right temperature control for juicy, tender, and flavorful results. Perfect for meal prep, salads, sandwiches, and healthy dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course, meal prep, protein base
Cuisine: American, Global, Mediterranean
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts or bone-in if preferred
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth enough to cover the chicken
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder optional
  • 1 tsp onion powder optional
  • 1 bay leaf optional
  • 1 small onion, quartered optional
  • 1 carrot, chopped optional
  • Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley optional for aroma

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid
  • Meat thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Sharp kitchen knife
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil for resting
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin Optional

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken:
  1. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator for 24 hours if frozen. Trim excess fat and pound to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Choose Cooking Liquid:
  1. Fill a large pot with enough water or broth to submerge the chicken. Add seasonings, herbs, and vegetables for flavor.
Boil and Simmer:
  1. Bring liquid to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add the chicken breasts.
Cook to Temperature:
  1. Boneless chicken breasts: simmer 12–15 minutes.
  2. Bone-in chicken breasts: simmer 25–30 minutes.
  3. Frozen breasts: increase time by 50%.
Check Doneness:
  1. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the Chicken:
  1. Remove from the pot, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 3–5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve or Store:
  1. Slice, shred, or dice as desired. Use in salads, soups, wraps, or casseroles. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

  • Always use a gentle simmer, not a full boil, to keep chicken moist.
  • Brining chicken before boiling adds flavor and tenderness.
  • Check temperature with a meat thermometer, 165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature.
  • Resting helps juices redistribute for better texture.
  • Use leftover broth as a flavorful base for soups or sauces.