Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones you make again and again.
While roasted or fried chicken gets most of the attention, gently cooking chicken in simmering water is one of the easiest ways to prepare juicy, flavorful meat that’s perfect for dozens of meals.
The secret isn’t expensive ingredients.
It’s knowing when to add the chicken—and what to add to the pot.
Let’s get started.
Why start with boiling water?
Many people place raw chicken into cold water.
However, adding the chicken to already simmering water helps the outside cook quickly while keeping more moisture inside the meat.
The result is tender, juicy chicken that’s ideal for salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps, or served with vegetables.
Avoid a rolling boil, though. A gentle simmer produces the best texture.
Build flavor naturally
Plain water works, but adding a few simple ingredients makes a big difference.
Try adding:
- 1 onion, cut in half
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley
- Black peppercorns
- A small pinch of salt
As the chicken cooks, these ingredients create a light, flavorful broth you’ll want to save.
Don’t overcook it
Chicken breast cooks surprisingly quickly.
As a general guide:
- Small breasts: 12–15 minutes
- Medium breasts: 15–18 minutes
- Large breasts: 18–20 minutes
The safest way to know it’s done is with a food thermometer. The thickest part should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Let it rest
After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute, helping the meat stay moist and tender.
Don’t throw away the broth
The cooking liquid becomes a delicious homemade broth.
Use it for:
- Chicken soup
- Rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Vegetable soup
- Sauces
Store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for later.
A simple weekly recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley
- Black pepper
Bring the water to a gentle boil.
Add all the vegetables and seasonings, then carefully add the chicken.
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.
Serve with steamed vegetables, potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Meal prep made easy
One batch of cooked chicken can become several meals:
- Chicken salad
- Whole-grain wraps
- Stir-fries
- Pasta dishes
- Vegetable soups
- Grain bowls
Preparing extra chicken once a week saves time and makes healthy meals much easier.
The bottom line
Adding chicken to gently boiling water is one of the easiest ways to create tender, juicy meat without frying. Combined with vegetables and herbs, it also produces a flavorful homemade broth that’s too good to waste.
Sometimes the best recipes aren’t complicated at all—they’re simple techniques that turn everyday ingredients into meals you’ll happily make week after week.
If you’re looking for more great tips, discover how my grandmother healed all her joints and runs like a girl or learn to forget mouthwash – this ancient oil k*lls gum bacteria in hours.
