Tender, juicy poached chicken breasts gently simmered in seasoned water or broth for an easy, versatile protein.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:2 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Poaching
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
2 medium chicken breasts
10 cups water or chicken broth
2 teaspoons kosher salt
Optional aromatics: lemon slices, garlic cloves, whole peppercorns, bay leaves
Instructions
In a large saucepan, whisk together 8 cups of the water or broth with 2 teaspoons kosher salt.
Add the chicken breasts to the pan, ensuring they are submerged under at least 2 inches of liquid. Add more of the remaining liquid as needed.
Place the pan over medium-low heat. Once the liquid starts to simmer, cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness.
Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Add lemon slices, garlic cloves, whole peppercorns, or bay leaves to the poaching liquid for extra flavor.
For especially juicy chicken, remove it from the poaching liquid at 150°F and allow carryover cooking during the rest period to bring it to a safe final temperature of 165°F.
Chicken broth can be used instead of water for additional flavor.