Easy Boiled Chicken Breast Recipe
This easy boiled chicken breast recipe shows you exactly how long to boil chicken breast so it stays juicy, tender, and flavorful. Boneless chicken breasts are gently simmered in seasoned broth for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until they reach 165°F, then rested before slicing or shredding. It's an easy high-protein staple for chicken salad, wraps, soups, casseroles, tacos, and weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 3-4 cups chicken broth or water as needed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 bay leaf optional
- 2 cloves garlic optional
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a saucepan in a single layer.
- Pour chicken broth or water into the pot until the chicken is covered by approximately 1 inch.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional aromatics.
- Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat immediately to maintain a gentle simmer and cover.
- Simmer boneless chicken breasts for approximately 12–15 minutes, depending on their thickness.
- Check the thickest portion using an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is finished when it reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken and rest for approximately 5 minutes.
- Slice, dice, or shred and use in your favorite recipe.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Approximate nutrition per 4-ounce serving of cooked skinless chicken breast:- Calories: 185
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Nutrition will vary based on chicken size, serving size, broth, and seasonings used.