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Home » Recipe Tips » How to Boil Chicken Breasts

How to Boil Chicken Breasts

714 · Dec 7, 2020 · 66 Comments

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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.

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chicken breasts with carrots & celery in a post next to a pan of shredded chicken

HOW TO BOIL CHICKEN

If you are looking for tender, juicy chicken try boiling it! We don’t really like baked chicken because it can become dried out so for the last few years we have been grilling it or using the Instant Pot. However, an even easier way to prepare it is boiling it. We have been so amazed at how good it is boiled – it stays very juicy and is easier and quicker than using a skillet, baking, or grilling it.

HOW TO FLAVOR YOUR CHICKEN

  • Use chicken broth for more flavor. If you are in a pinch, water will work but broth will kick the flavor up a few notches. Sometimes we do a mixture of broth and water.
  • We love making ours with just minced garlic, sea salt, and pepper (we usually add 1 tsp of sea salt and pepper and 2 TBSP of minced garlic for 6 chicken breasts).
  • Add any vegetables you have in your refrigerator. We’ve used carrots, celery, onions, etc.

HOW LONG TO BOIL CHICKEN

  • In a large pot, cover all chicken with broth and/or water. Add your desired spices, seasonings, and vegetables.
  • Bring to a boil over medium-high heat
  • Six chicken breasts usually take approximately 25-30 minutes and 8-15 minutes for three chicken breasts, depending on their size.
  • Always check the temperature with a meat thermometer
  • Do not overcook

HOW TO EAT BOILED CHICKEN

Since we typically just season our boiled chicken with garlic, sea salt, and pepper we can add additional seasonings once we eat it depending on what we are using it for. Boiled chicken is also very good with mustard.

We usually pair our boiled chicken with sweet potato (either our Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes or a Restaurant-Style Baked Sweet Potato). We also use this boiled chicken in some of our most popular recipes:

  • Clean Eating Chicken Salad
  • Healthy Savory Chicken Casserole
  • Chicken Tortilla Casserole

WATCH HOW EASY IT IS TO BOIL CHICKEN:

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How to Boil Chicken Breasts


★★★★★

5 from 4 reviews

  • Author: Whitney Carlson
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
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Description

Use this guide on How to Boil Chicken to get tender, juicy chicken that can be eaten in many different ways and used in delicious recipes!


Ingredients

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • Organic Chicken Broth
  • Spices, your choice (We use sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic)
  • Vegetables, your choice (You can omit the vegetables – they are just for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken in a large pot and cover with chicken broth and water (I usually do a mixture of both). Be sure to cover all chicken. Add your desired spices (I usually add 2 Tbsp minced garlic for 6 chicken breasts and just sprinkle sea salt and pepper) and vegetables (I’ve used carrots, celery, onions, etc…clean out your fridge!).
  2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover.
  4. Allow chicken to cook until heated through (this usually takes 25-30 minutes for 6 chicken breasts and 8-15 minutes for 3 breasts, depending on the size). Always check the temperature with a meat thermometer.
  5. Shred chicken and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: American

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Comments

  1. Mr.G says

    June 3, 2018 at 3:09 am

    Since you mentioned the meat thermometer, you may want to add that the appropriate internal temperature for all poultry is 165° Fahrenheit ((73.9 °Celsius)

    Reply
    • Juston McNalley says

      January 19, 2019 at 9:37 pm

      It’s actually 160…if you get to 165 it’s dried out.

      Reply
      • Sammie says

        April 21, 2019 at 9:21 pm

        Like the recipe. But as far as Temp.. the USDA and safe food handling classes bi.sammisays minimum 165 for safe eating ..

        Reply
        • Robert says

          August 1, 2019 at 5:07 pm

          It actually depends on how long it’s at that temperature. 165 is safe when you hit it. You can go lower, though. For example, and I’m ballparking here, if you get it to 140 and keep it there for 10 minutes it’s safe. That’s why sous vide is a wonderful way to cook things.

          Reply
  2. Pam says

    July 24, 2018 at 3:36 pm

    I recently began to love boiled chicken, too. I always grill or oven bake but decided to boil it one time to make Chicken Divan, which is was perfect for .

    Reply
  3. Robert Hammel says

    August 25, 2018 at 5:37 am

    What is the point of a recipe for 3 chicken breasts?

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      August 29, 2018 at 9:39 pm

      Nice constructive comment.

      Reply
      • Pete B says

        September 9, 2018 at 10:42 am

        So then.. why do they sell chicken breast in packs of 3?

        Reply
        • Whitney Carlson says

          September 26, 2018 at 11:29 pm

          I’m not the correct person to ask that question. You can boil as much or as little chicken as you want though.

          Reply
          • Jacob Harmon says

            February 28, 2019 at 4:08 pm

            I can’t stop laughing…”You can boil as much or as little chicken as you want”…is my new answer to any nonsensical complaint.

        • Charles Goodall says

          December 13, 2019 at 9:18 pm

          2 for 2 portions and one more to share, or leftover for sandwiches soup etc

          Reply
      • will says

        September 23, 2018 at 7:03 pm

        What is the proportion of chicken broth to water that you recommend? Half and half, or something else?

        Reply
        • Whitney Carlson says

          September 26, 2018 at 11:24 pm

          Hi Will! It really doesn’t matter honestly. I’ve used all chicken broth and all water before too. The chicken broth seems to just bring out more flavor. I’m pretty frugal so I tend to do all water or half and half so I don’t use a whole carton of chicken broth. I hope this helps. 🙂

          Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      September 26, 2018 at 11:36 pm

      Well, a lot of people find it helpful so…

      Reply
      • T Turner says

        November 7, 2018 at 6:10 pm

        I’m single, and never use more than 3. I definitely appreciate it!

        Reply
        • Whitney Carlson says

          November 8, 2018 at 8:52 pm

          Ha, yes! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

          Reply
        • Claudia Mares says

          August 24, 2019 at 1:47 pm

          I’m in college and also just cook for myself so 3 chicken breasts is good to meal prep for a couple different recipes. Thanks!

          Reply
    • M.J. Milanova says

      October 20, 2018 at 6:17 pm

      My family is small, two adults and a toddler. I’m thankful for the cooking time of 3 breasts, as this is all my family needs prepared for our meal. I don’t understand why people always have to comment or critique things that don’t apply to them, but might apply to others.

      Reply
      • Whitney Carlson says

        October 22, 2018 at 8:48 pm

        I agree! Thank you for taking the time to comment. I’m glad the post was helpful! 🙂

        Reply
    • Donna Palmer says

      November 3, 2019 at 8:46 pm

      Because sometimes, that’s all you have, or need..?

      Reply
    • MJ says

      June 23, 2020 at 1:22 am

      Here’s my answer(only can speak for myself)-I’m one person it’s for me(chicken salad-only like white meat & a little for my cat(healthy & she enjoys)
      •Actually bought small package cubed chicken that’s maybe equivalent 2 chicken breasts.
      PS: I’m small and so is my appetite. Also like things super fresh

      Reply
      • Jeffrey says

        June 26, 2020 at 5:52 pm

        Three chicken breasts, boiled as listed in this post, is just right for a rack of shredded chicken jerky in a dehydrator.

        Reply
  4. Abraham says

    September 13, 2018 at 12:41 pm

    Hello, hugsss and thank you so much for the recipe!!! It was delicious and healthy!!! 🙂 😀 😀 knowing that I can boil chicken breast was very helpful to me because I don’t cook much and I was seeking the statement that it’s possible to cook chicken breast. 🙂 thank you so so so much!!!!! 😀 <3 😀 😀 😀 hugs <3 🙂 😀 😀 😀

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      September 26, 2018 at 11:28 pm

      I’m so glad it was helpful Abraham! Thanks for taking the time to comment.

      Reply
  5. Mary Ellen Amundson says

    October 5, 2018 at 8:06 pm

    Great recipe, easy and clearly written. I always have chicken broth, but for some unknown reason I usually boil chicken in water. What a difference the broth makes! Thanks for taking the time to post this, great job!

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      November 13, 2018 at 9:54 am

      It does make a big difference in flavor. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

      Reply
  6. Brian Cegelski says

    October 5, 2018 at 9:47 pm

    Making your recipe right now we’re going to do it with crunchy taco shells or we’re going to make burritos California styleI got another 10 minutes in the pot but it’s already smelling really good did half better than bouillon vegetarian and half water

    Reply
  7. Rachel says

    October 14, 2018 at 5:33 pm

    Hello there! Just stumbled across your post/site as I’m in the middle of batch cooking for my 11 month old and was looking for a boiled chicken recipe; thinking this will fit the bill! I’m doing garlic & rosmary and opted to omit the salt. Thanks! I’ll make sure to check out the rest of your site!

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      November 13, 2018 at 9:53 am

      Hi Rachel! Thanks for taking the time to comment. We would love for you to check out the rest of the website. 🙂 Garlic and rosemary sound delicious!

      Reply
  8. Nora says

    October 19, 2018 at 7:00 pm

    I use boiled chicken breast for chicken salad with fruit slivered almonds, graped red or green ,sml can of tropical fruit and only hellmans real mayo, talk about good

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      November 13, 2018 at 9:53 am

      Hi Nora, we also love to use ours for chicken salad!

      Reply
  9. Amanda says

    November 3, 2018 at 11:10 am

    Thank you! Just knowing the basics helps . Now I can alter it as needed. ; )

    Reply
    • Valerie says

      May 12, 2019 at 11:46 am

      Thanks for the cooking information. I break up the chicken in sandwich bags and freeze for later. Enjoy your day.

      Reply
      • Whitney Carlson says

        May 16, 2019 at 12:09 pm

        Great tip Valerie! Thank YOU for sharing that. 🙂

        Reply
  10. Douglas Lees says

    November 8, 2018 at 8:13 pm

    To what temperature do you cook it to PLEASE 😊

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      November 8, 2018 at 8:52 pm

      Hi Douglas, 165 degrees F. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Whitney Carlson says

    November 13, 2018 at 10:45 am

    COMMENTS FROM PREVIOUS WEBSITE (ADMIN):

    Great tips….Fantastic for on the run

    Im either going to use vegetable broth or garlic broth, ill add tomatoes and some frozen veggies and some rice when I make this.

    If you choose breasts with rib meat, you won’t need to use chicken broth, because the fat will render as it’s boiling. Add salt to taste, and voila! You have also made your own chicken broth to use in another recipe.

    Thanks for the instructions, Whitney! My favorite lunch meal is a bowl of diced up chicken breast, cubed avocado, roasted garlic cloves, and a small handful of pistachios. (I season it all with a little cayenne and sea salt.) I’m tired of firing up the grill, though…this will make things so much easier! Any idea how many days they’ll keep in the fridge?

    Awesome quick recipe, thanks!!

    Reply
  12. Sandi says

    December 3, 2018 at 12:55 pm

    I appreciate the advice, I felt silly type in how to boil chicken. Because honestly I have never done it before so your article was very helpful thank you and it turned out just delicious!

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      January 15, 2019 at 3:22 pm

      I just saw your comment Sandi! Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and trusting us. 🙂

      Reply
  13. Terry says

    February 15, 2019 at 8:24 pm

    Like Sandi, as I typed in “how long to boil chicken” it felt like it was something I ought to know – and that everyone else already did. It’s comforting to see that I wasn’t the only one in the dark :).

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      March 23, 2019 at 8:31 pm

      You are definitely not alone, Terry. 🙂 I’m glad you found what you were looking for and found us! Let us know if you ever have any questions.

      Reply
  14. Nele says

    March 13, 2019 at 2:28 am

    Great post. Was looking for an easy explanation and yours was great. One question, if I don’t have a meat thermometer, how will I know if the chicken is done? Can I just cut it and see if its still red?

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      March 13, 2019 at 11:03 am

      I’m glad it was helpful Nele! If you don’t have a meat thermometer you can certainly cut into it (cut into the thickest part) and see if it is still red or too pink in the middle. Also, once it’s finished it should be very easy to pull with your hands or forks. I hope this helps!

      Reply
      • Nele says

        March 15, 2019 at 2:38 am

        Thanks so much! Had the time to look through some of your other material now and found it super helpful. Stay wonderful!

        Reply
  15. Janice Landry says

    April 8, 2019 at 12:52 pm

    Does the chicken cut up into cubes or does it just shred? I prefer cubes so I’m looking for an easier way than baking.

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      April 12, 2019 at 12:52 pm

      Hi Janice! You can certainly cut it up into cubes instead of shredding. I also use cubes for some recipes.

      Reply
  16. Richard says

    April 25, 2019 at 8:09 pm

    I don’t have a meat thermometer.. guess work it is!

    Reply
  17. Linda says

    May 8, 2019 at 9:39 am

    Thank you for the easy recipe! After being sick, my dog was put on a restricted bland diet of chicken and rice. Much better than canned!

    Reply
  18. Chef Jeff says

    June 6, 2019 at 12:03 pm

    Chicken doesn’t dry out in the oven unless you’re doing something wrong. You’re either cooking it too long, cooking at too high a temp, not marinating it, or if not marinating, failing to sear it in a pan first.

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      June 6, 2019 at 9:24 pm

      Maybe so but I gave up and always boil (or grill) ours now. I might try it again at some point but just prefer to boil it. 🙂

      Reply
  19. holly says

    July 17, 2019 at 7:13 pm

    Hello! Do you have a video I can follow? I want to make sure it turns out exactly like yours.

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      July 17, 2019 at 8:30 pm

      Hi Holly! Yes, we do! It is just a sped-up video of me doing it though. Here is a link to the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ooloj8H4HcA

      Reply
  20. Mike says

    August 19, 2019 at 12:20 am

    I boil chicken breasts also. Thank you for this recipe. I will definitely try it. What I usually do when boiling 2 chicken breasts is use a large sauce pan, melt down 2 sticks of butter. Add 1 cup of room temp water, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, and 2 garlic bulbs, minced. Boil for 20 minutes, over medium low heat, and wow, talk about juicy!! Take them out of liquid, let rest for about 15 minutes, and serve over chicken flavor rice-a-roni. Add chives for garnish.

    Reply
  21. al says

    September 1, 2019 at 4:00 pm

    HI DO YOU USE THE COOKED CHICKEN BROTH FOR ANYTHING OR JUST DISCARD AFTER YOUR COOK? I hear people drink bone broth is this a application?

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      September 4, 2019 at 1:25 am

      Hi Al! We really should reuse the chicken broth but we currently just toss it out. You could certainly drink it or even freeze it for future use.

      Reply
  22. DAVE says

    October 13, 2019 at 9:36 pm

    Thank you for the info. Very helpful. I like to prepare the chicken ahead of time, about one hr. Using two skinless/ boneless chicken breast. Stab the chicken several times with a fork. Add favorite spices, etc. Water and or broth, put in fridge for about an hour, or however long is sufficient. Proceed with cooking. Just an fyi. The elevation that one lives in will determine cooking time. The higher the elevation the longer the cooking will take. Living in the Phoenix metropolitan area about 12 minutes of simmering is perfect. (After bringing to a boil).

    Reply
  23. Marissa says

    November 26, 2019 at 5:02 pm

    Just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to write this recipe because for single moms like myself on the go trying to figure what to make my 18 month old son for dinner or lunch and I searched and saw this and it was a lifesaver! So thank you.

    Reply
  24. Bridget says

    December 8, 2019 at 5:28 pm

    The point of a 3 chicken recipe is: spinach chicken crepes, a recipe by Martha Stewart! It is wonderful and it requires @ 1&1/2 cups of shredded cooked chicken breasts! This is perfect with that recipe! Thanks!

    Reply
  25. Mia says

    September 4, 2020 at 10:35 pm

    Hi
    Thank you for sharing. How long would it take for 1 large chicken breast? Would it help to cut the chicken breast in half?

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      September 10, 2020 at 1:38 pm

      Hi Mia,

      I would say for one chicken breast you would be closer to the 8-minute mark. However, I would try to have a meat thermometer on hand to check the internal temperature. You can also cut into it after it is finished cooking to make sure it is not still pink in the middle.

      You do not need to cut it in half before cooking.

      I hope this helps!

      Reply
  26. Ashley Ledford says

    December 9, 2020 at 11:03 am

    So helpful and my “go to” for “how to”! Another winner from He and She !

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  27. Kaitlyn says

    December 10, 2020 at 4:15 pm

    This recipe is so helpful making chicken taste juicy and delicious when I am short on time!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  28. SCOTT says

    December 16, 2020 at 9:44 pm

    Thank you for sharing! This is the perfect way to cook chicken and definitely prevents my chicken breasts from drying out like they do when I bake them.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  29. Clair Smyers says

    April 4, 2021 at 7:17 pm

    I cooked one medium chicken breast today. I put Mrs. Dash and Garlic powder on it. I cooked it for an hour and 15 minutes. It taste fine but, it appears that I have over cooked it. Thanks for the information on cooking time and I will try that on the next one. My thermometer went clear up to 200 degrees F. I guess it was well done.

    Reply
    • Whitney Carlson says

      April 7, 2021 at 10:40 am

      We’ve done that before too, Clair! With a cooking time of 1 hr and 15 min it does sound like you overcooked it. At least it was edible! 🙂

      Reply
  30. Nicole says

    November 16, 2022 at 11:51 pm

    Since you add veggies and may not eat it all in one sitting if you save some for meal prep throughout the week…do you leave it in the broth when storing until it’s time to eat?

    ★★★★★

    Reply

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