Basic Poached Chicken Breasts
Basic Poached Chicken Breasts
Poaching chicken breasts is an easy, healthy method that results in tender, juicy chicken. It's perfect for meal prepping or using in salads, sandwiches, or any dish where you need cooked chicken. The key to poaching chicken is gently simmering, not boiling, to retain moisture and tenderness.
Ingredients
(Serves 2)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 small onion, halved (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed (optional)
- 1-2 bay leaves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley) (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. If the breasts are very thick, you may want to pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
2. Add Liquid and Seasoning
- Pour the water or chicken broth over the chicken breasts until they are fully submerged. Add salt, and any optional aromatics (onion, garlic, herbs, and peppercorns) to the pot for added flavor.
- If you're using chicken broth, it will add extra flavor to the chicken.
3. Heat and Simmer
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If your chicken breasts are thicker, they may take slightly longer.
4. Test for Doneness
- To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
- Alternatively, you can cut into the chicken to ensure the meat is no longer pink in the center.
5. Rest the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Tips
- Flavor Variations: To change the flavor of the poaching liquid, you can use different herbs, spices, or even a splash of white wine for extra richness.
- Shredding the Chicken: After poaching, the chicken breasts can be easily shredded with two forks. This shredded chicken is great for tacos, soups, or sandwiches.
- Meal Prep: Poached chicken breasts are great for meal prepping. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This Basic Poached Chicken Breasts recipe is a simple and healthy way to prepare chicken that can be used in a variety of dishes. Enjoy the juicy, tender results with minimal effort! 🍗💧🌿
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