Boiling Chicken
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a simple yet satisfying dish like Boiling Chicken. I remember the first time I made it. I was feeling under the weather, and the thought of a warm, hearty meal filled with tender chicken sounded like exactly what I needed. As the aroma of the boiling broth filled my kitchen, it felt like a warm hug on a cold day. This dish isn’t just about the flavors; it’s about the memories it creates. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet effortless, or for those lazy Sundays when you just want to indulge in some home-cooked goodness.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 40 mins
70 mins
30 mins
Medium
290 kcal
42 g
Paleo, Gluten-Free
7 g
Chef’s Knife, Large Pot
Why Try This Boiling Chicken
It’s Quick and Easy
One of the standout features of Boiling Chicken is that it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re too tired to cook but still want something nourishing.
Loaded with Flavor
This recipe is not just about the chicken; it’s about the rich flavors that come from boiling it in a savory broth. The chicken broth and water create a fragrant base that infuses the chicken with taste. Plus, you can adjust the seasonings to make it as simple or as bold as you like, adding your favorite spices or herbs.
Versatile for Any Meal
Boiling Chicken is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making sandwiches, salads, or serving it alongside a side of vegetables, the tender chicken can be incorporated into various meals. This adaptability makes it a staple in my kitchen, and I’m sure it will become one in yours as well!
Family-Friendly
This dish is a hit with everyone—kids love the tender, juicy chicken, and adults appreciate the wholesome goodness. It’s a great way to get your family to enjoy a healthy meal without the fuss. Serve it in a sandwich or on its own; either way, it’s bound to please.
Health Benefits
Boiling is often considered one of the healthiest cooking methods. It retains the nutrients of the chicken while keeping it moist and tender. You can feel good about serving this dish, knowing that it’s packed with protein and essential vitamins.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re looking to meal prep for the week, Boiling Chicken is an excellent choice. You can easily batch-cook several chicken breasts, then use them throughout the week in different recipes. This saves time and ensures you always have a healthy option ready to go.
Ingredients Required for Boiling Chicken

For this recipe, we focus on a few quality ingredients that come together beautifully. The key players are the chicken broth and the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The broth helps keep the chicken moist while infusing it with flavor. The simplicity of these ingredients means you can easily whip up a healthy meal.
- 4 cups chicken broth: This acts as the flavorful base, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- 1 cup water: Dilutes the broth slightly, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, they become juicy and flavorful when boiled.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s taste.
- Poultry seasoning: Adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
- Sandwich bread: Choose Sliced Italian Bread or Brioche Rolls for serving.
- Garlic aioli or mayonnaise: A creamy spread that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Romaine lettuce leaves: Adds a fresh crunch.
- Sliced tomatoes: Provides brightness and sweetness.
Cooking Method for Boiling Chicken

Cooking Boiling Chicken is an enjoyable process that results in perfect tenderness and flavor. Let’s dive into the step-by-step method!
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You’ll know it’s ready when you see bubbles forming vigorously.
- Once the liquid is boiling, turn off the heat. Carefully add the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Be cautious, as the hot broth can splatter. Cover the pot and let it stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- After the resting time, check the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. The gentle boiling method ensures the chicken remains soft and tender.
- Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the broth using tongs. Place them on a cutting board to cool slightly before seasoning.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. This step enhances the flavor dramatically, so don’t skip it!
- If the chicken breasts are too large, slice them to fit your chosen bread better. Slicing also helps with even seasoning.
- Choose your favorite sandwich bread. I love using Sliced Italian Bread for a classic touch or Brioche Rolls for a richer flavor.
- Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli or mayonnaise on one slice of bread. This creamy layer adds a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
- Place a romaine lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato on the bread. This adds freshness and crunch to your sandwich.
- Finally, place the seasoned chicken fillet on top of the veggies, add another slice of bread on top, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Things Worth Knowing
- Boiling chicken is a great way to retain moisture and flavor. The broth not only helps keep the chicken juicy but also infuses it with rich taste.
- Make sure to use a meat thermometer for best results. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Don’t rush the resting time; letting the chicken sit in the broth allows it to absorb more flavors.
- Feel free to experiment with various herbs and spices in the broth for unique flavor profiles.
Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to enhance your cooking experience, consider these helpful tips:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze boiled chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and it will last for up to three months.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Meal Prep: Boil extra chicken breasts at the beginning of the week. This makes for quick lunches and tasty salads.
- Flavor Boost: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the boiling broth for an aromatic touch.
Pairing Suggestions for Boiling Chicken
When it comes to serving Boiling Chicken, you have countless options that elevate this dish:
- Sandwiches: Use the seasoned chicken to create delicious sandwiches with your choice of bread, lettuce, and sauces.
- Salads: Slice the boiled chicken and toss it with greens, vegetables, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing salad.
- Wraps: Perfect for lunch, wrap the chicken in a tortilla with toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Soup: Incorporate the chicken into a homemade soup, adding vegetables and noodles for a warming meal.
- Rice Bowls: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with veggies and sauce for a filling bowl.
- Dinner Parties: Impress guests by serving the chicken alongside gourmet sides like roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Seasonal Dishes: Pair with seasonal sides, such as fresh summer salads or hearty winter vegetable casseroles.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Boiling Chicken is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort and nutrition to your table. With its quick preparation and flavorful results, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. I encourage you to try making it tonight and discover how this classic dish can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Boiling Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the liquid is boiling, turn off the heat. Carefully add the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Cover the pot and let it stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- After the resting time, check the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the broth using tongs. Place them on a cutting board to cool slightly before seasoning.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- If the chicken breasts are too large, slice them to fit your chosen bread better.
- Choose your favorite sandwich bread. I love using Sliced Italian Bread or Brioche Rolls.
- Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli or mayonnaise on one slice of bread.
- Place a romaine lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato on the bread.
- Finally, place the seasoned chicken fillet on top of the veggies, add another slice of bread on top, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Boiling time: The boiling time for chicken breasts can vary depending on their thickness. On average, chicken breasts that are about 1 inch thick will take around 15 to 20 minutes to cook when boiled.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken breasts are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.


