To boil chicken breasts properly, place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with chicken broth or water. Season with garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper if desired. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For bone-in breasts, cooking takes about 20 minutes. Check doneness by slicing the thickest part or using a meat thermometer. After cooking, remove the chicken and let it rest before shredding or serving. This method ensures moist, tender chicken suitable for many recipes.
Key points:
- Use enough liquid to cover chicken.
- Start with cold or room temperature liquid, then bring to a boil.
- Simmer gently rather than boiling rapidly to avoid tough meat.
- Use a thermometer for best results, aiming for 165°F internal temperature.
- Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy.
This approach yields juicy, tender boiled chicken breasts perfect for salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more.
