How Long to Boil Chicken Breast
Learn the perfect way to boil chicken breast for juicy, tender, and flavorful results every time. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and foolproof success!
Equipment
- Large pot with lid 🥘
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts about 1 pound total
- Water enough to cover the chicken
- 1 tablespoon salt 🧂
- 2 garlic cloves crushed 🧄
- 1 bay leaf 🍃
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- ½ onion chopped
- 4 lemon slices optional 🍋
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water.
- Add salt, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, onion, and lemon slices.
- Bring water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer for 8–10 minutes (thin breasts), 12–15 minutes (average breasts), or 18–22 minutes (thick/frozen breasts).
- Check the internal temperature — it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For added flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
Don't overboil; gentle simmering keeps chicken tender.
Always rest the chicken after cooking to lock in juices.