Description
This Perfect Poached Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered gently in a flavorful broth of garlic, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Ideal for a healthy meal prep or a versatile protein addition to salads, sandwiches, and more, this method ensures moist, delicately seasoned chicken every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 black peppercorns
- 1 garlic clove, smashed
Liquid:
- Enough water to fully submerge the chicken (approximately 4-6 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the pot: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot. Add kosher salt, bay leaf, black peppercorns, smashed garlic clove, and enough water to cover the chicken completely.
- Simmer the chicken: Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 10-15 minutes.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the pot from heat but keep the chicken submerged. Let it rest in the hot liquid for 3 to 5 minutes to finish cooking and retain moisture.
- Serve: Carefully remove the chicken breasts, slice as desired, and serve immediately or use in your favorite recipe.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without overcooking.
- The poaching liquid can be strained and used as a light broth for soups or cooking grains.
- For added flavor, you can include fresh herbs like thyme or parsley in the poaching liquid.
- Poached chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (~3 oz)
- Calories: 125
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
