Recipe: Simple Poached Chicken Breasts
Once you know them, some kitchen techniques and concepts can help create quick, healthy meals. Poached chicken breasts may be one of the most versatile protein options to prep and repurpose into a variety of recipes. You can make a batch and use it in different ways, shredding some into a Caesar salad, tossing with peanut sauce for a veggie and noodle stir fry, or chopped up and using as nachos, the flavors and methods are vast.
Ready to turn your chicken into something delish but need more of a plan? Check out these other recipes on our website that call for precooked chicken:
Simple Poached Chicken Breasts
Serves 3.5-4 cups
Ingredients
- 8 cups water (or enough to cover the chicken in a pot)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Optional: 1 bay leaf, 1/4 tsp dried thyme
Directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts and ensure they’re fully submerged in the water.
- Reduce heat to medium/medium-low and allow to simmer for 16-18 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove chicken and set aside to cool.
- Store in a sealed container in the fridge and use within 3-4 days.
Tip
If planning to use chicken in shredded form, it shreds easiest while still slightly warm. After removing from water, let rest for 15-20 minutes and use two forks to shred. Then, store until ready to use.