How to Boil Chicken Breasts
Learn how to boil chicken breasts easily for meal prep or quick dinners. Perfect for shredding or slicing to use in salads, tacos, or casseroles!
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Chicken Breasts about 3-4 chicken breasts
- 4 cups Chicken Broth or water for a lighter flavor
- 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground for best flavor
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- 2-3 garlic cloves whole or smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs like thyme or oregano
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Add enough water to fully cover the chicken in the pot.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot once it boils.
- Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F and is fully cooked. This takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts.
- For extra flavor, add garlic, a bay leaf, or dried herbs while cooking.
- Once done, remove the chicken, shred, and enjoy!
Instant Pot Method
- Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 8-10 minutes if they are fresh, or 12-15 minutes if they are frozen. The exact time depends on the size of the breasts.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then use the quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Notes
Storing boiled chicken breasts is a breeze! Once they’ve cooled, slice or shred them, then pop them into an airtight container or a ziplock bag. Want to make meal prep super easy? Portion the chicken into separate bags for each recipe you’re planning—perfect for quick lunches or dinners! Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just reheat and enjoy tender, juicy chicken whenever you need it
Nutrition
Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 1129mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g