Description
This recipe guides you through making perfectly juicy poached chicken using a gentle simmering technique with aromatic herbs and garlic for flavor. The poaching method ensures tender, flavorful chicken breasts or thighs that can be served immediately or stored for later use in various dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Aromatics
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) skinless, boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed with the flat side of a knife
- 1 shallot, peeled and quartered
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 to 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt
Poaching Liquid
- 5 to 6 cups water (or substitute with chicken or vegetable stock or broth)
Optional for Serving
- Fresh cracked black pepper
- Lemon slices
- Fresh herbs
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pot: Add chicken, garlic, shallot, bay leaf, thyme, and salt to a medium pot. Pour in enough water or stock to cover the chicken by 1 to 2 inches, about 5 to 6 cups total.
- Heat to a Simmer: Place the pot over medium heat and slowly bring the liquid to a low simmer. This gentle heating prevents the chicken from toughening and helps it cook evenly. Do not rush this step; it may take a few minutes.
- Poach the Chicken: Once the liquid reaches a low simmer, reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken cook gently for 10 to 15 minutes, until it is fully cooked. Test doneness with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F. Juices should run clear when pierced.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Slice and serve immediately with optional toppings like cracked black pepper, lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. If not eating right away, leave the chicken whole and store tightly covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture and easy slicing.
- For richer flavor, substitute water with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Do not boil the liquid vigorously, as it can toughen the chicken; maintain a gentle simmer.
- Poached chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a protein topping for various dishes.
- Keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: poached chicken, juicy chicken breast, boneless chicken recipes, healthy chicken, easy chicken recipes
