Perfect Poached Chicken Breasts: Your Ultimate Guide to Tender, Juicy, and Versatile Meals

Unlock the secret to consistently tender, juicy chicken with the simple art of poaching. This foolproof cooking method is an absolute game-changer for any home cook, transforming plain chicken breasts into a versatile ingredient perfect for countless meals. Imagine succulent chicken ready in under 20 minutes, ideal for quick weeknight dinners, refreshing salads, or efficient meal prep throughout the week. If you’ve ever struggled with dry, flavorless chicken, poaching offers a gentle solution that locks in moisture and infuses subtle flavors. Forget complicated techniques; this guide will walk you through mastering perfectly poached chicken breasts, ensuring delectable results every single time. It’s an essential culinary skill that elevates your cooking repertoire with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness, making healthy eating both easy and enjoyable.

At its core, poaching is a gentle, moist-heat cooking technique where food is delicately cooked in a liquid maintained just below boiling point. Unlike boiling, which can toughen proteins and leach out flavor, poaching ensures an incredibly tender texture by cooking slowly and evenly. This method is particularly effective for lean proteins like chicken breasts, as it prevents them from drying out—a common pitfall with other, more aggressive cooking methods like high-heat pan-frying or roasting. The true beauty of poaching lies not only in its ability to retain moisture but also in the unparalleled opportunity to infuse incredible flavors into the chicken.

The poaching liquid itself can be as simple as salted water, or it can be elevated with a rich chicken or vegetable broth, a generous splash of dry white wine, an array of aromatic herbs, bright citrus slices, and fresh vegetables. These thoughtfully chosen additions create a flavorful essence that gently permeates the chicken as it cooks, resulting in a subtly seasoned, wonderfully aromatic, and incredibly palatable dish. Poached chicken is exceptionally versatile, equally delicious served warm right out of the pot, or chilled and incorporated into a variety of cold dishes. It’s a quick, efficient, and healthy way to prepare protein, making it an indispensable technique for busy individuals, meticulous meal planners, and anyone looking for a lighter, more flavorful approach to chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Poached Chicken Breast Recipe

There are countless reasons why poaching chicken breasts will quickly become your new favorite cooking hack. This gentle method consistently stands out for its straightforward simplicity, impressive health benefits, and incredible culinary versatility, making it a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire:

• An Essential Culinary Skill for Every Cook: Poaching is a foundational cooking technique that empowers you to prepare lean proteins with unparalleled perfection. Once you master this method, you’ll confidently create delicious, healthy, and consistently tender chicken meals. It’s a skill that pays significant dividends, enhancing your understanding of gentle cooking.
• Effortlessly Easy & Ideal for Meal Prep: Say goodbye to complicated, time-consuming recipes. Poaching chicken is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal active cooking time and very little fuss. Its inherent simplicity makes it an absolutely ideal choice for efficient meal prepping. Imagine cooking a generous batch on Sunday, and having perfectly cooked, flavorful protein ready to be transformed into salads, sandwiches, and dinners throughout your busy week.
• Unbelievably Versatile for Diverse Dishes: The subtle, clean flavor and tender texture of poached chicken make it an absolute blank canvas for culinary creativity. It can be effortlessly sliced, shredded, or diced and seamlessly incorporated into an endless array of dishes. From hearty, comforting soups and stews to light, refreshing entrée salads and even sophisticated main courses, the possibilities are truly only limited by your imagination.
• Lightning Fast for Busy Lifestyles: In a world where every minute counts, this recipe delivers speed without compromising quality. You can have perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy chicken breasts ready in approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. This impressive speed makes it a perfect solution for impromptu weeknight meals or whenever you need a healthy, high-quality protein source in a hurry.
• Healthy, Lean, and Delicious: By avoiding added cooking fats and employing a gentle cooking technique, poached chicken breasts emerge as an incredibly lean, healthy, and clean protein option. The tender texture and infused, subtle flavors ensure that healthy eating never tastes bland or uninspired. It’s a method that promotes well-being without sacrificing taste.

Essential Ingredients for Poached Chicken Breasts

The beauty of poaching lies in its elegant simplicity, requiring just a few key ingredients to create a rich and flavorful poaching liquid that subtly infuses the chicken with taste. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to make the best-poached chicken breasts, turning basic components into a culinary delight:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The undeniable star of our dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture. Boneless and skinless cuts are preferred for their ease of preparation and consumption, and to keep the dish wonderfully lean. While possible, bone-in, skin-on chicken can also be poached, but be aware it will require a longer cooking time and will alter the overall fat content of the final product.
• Celery: A classic aromatic base. Roughly chopped celery pieces contribute a fresh, subtly earthy note to the poaching broth, adding a foundational layer to the overall savory flavor profile. It’s part of the traditional mirepoix (or holy trinity) for a reason!
• Garlic: Essential for aromatic depth. A few whole, peeled, and lightly crushed garlic cloves will release their pungent, savory aromatic oils into the liquid, providing a foundational undertone without overpowering the delicate chicken. There’s no need to finely chop; a gentle crush is sufficient.
• Other Aromatics (Onion, Leek, or Shallot): These allium family members are crucial for building a complex, layered flavor profile in your poaching liquid. A small onion, the white and light green parts of a leek, or a few smaller shallots, thinly sliced or roughly chopped, will lend a sweet, mild oniony flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Feel free to use just one or a combination of these for a richer taste.
• Lemon: For brightness, acidity, and aroma. Sliced lemon not only imparts a wonderful, fragrant citrus aroma but also provides a crucial touch of acidity. This acidity brightens the overall flavors of the poaching liquid and can subtly aid in tenderizing the chicken, ensuring it remains succulent.
• Dry White Wine (Optional, but Highly Recommended): A generous splash of dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a dry vermouth, adds a layer of sophistication and depth to the poaching liquid. It enhances the overall flavor profile significantly, creating a more gourmet taste. However, if you prefer an alcohol-free version, this can be safely omitted and substituted with an equal amount of additional chicken or vegetable broth.
• Fresh or Dried Herbs (Bay Leaves & Thyme Sprigs): Herbs are paramount for adding aromatic complexity and character. Dried bay leaves impart a classic, subtle herbal note that is both warm and slightly peppery. Fresh thyme sprigs, on the other hand, add a delicate, earthy fragrance. You can certainly experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley depending on your desired flavor profile.
• Sea Salt and Black Peppercorns: Do not underestimate the power of proper seasoning! A generous pinch of good quality sea salt is absolutely vital to season the chicken from within as it cooks, ensuring it isn’t bland. Whole black peppercorns add a mild, earthy spice to the poaching liquid without making the chicken itself overly spicy.

For precise measurements of salt, pepper, and all other ingredients, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this comprehensive post.

Customizing Your Poached Chicken Breasts: Substitutions & Variations

One of the many joys of poaching chicken is how easily you can adapt the recipe to suit your unique taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply what ingredients you happen to have readily available in your pantry and refrigerator. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your poaching liquid and aromatics to craft a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours:

• Enhance the Poaching Liquid for Richer Flavor:
  • Broth Power-Up: For an even richer, more savory chicken, consider using high-quality chicken broth or vegetable broth as the primary poaching liquid instead of just water. Opt for a low-sodium broth to maintain better control over the final salt content of your dish.
  • Wine & Spirits Exploration: If you enjoy deeper flavors, you can increase the amount of dry white wine or experiment with a dry white vermouth for a more sophisticated, herbaceous twist. For a delicious non-alcoholic alternative, a splash of apple cider vinegar or even a small amount of white grape juice can add a touch of acidity and subtle sweetness.
  • Global Spice Infusion: Introduce whole spices for an international flair. Try star anise, a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or thinly sliced fresh ginger for an Asian-inspired aroma. Beyond the black peppercorns, consider adding a few pink peppercorns for a milder, fruiter note.
• Experiment with Diverse Herbs: While bay leaves and thyme are classic and reliably delicious, feel absolutely free to swap them out or combine them with other fresh herbs. Robust rosemary sprigs impart a woody, fragrant essence perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while fresh parsley stems add a clean, bright, and green flavor. Delicate dill or tarragon can also be lovely for a more subtle, anisy, or French-inspired note.
• Explore Other Citrus: Beyond the traditional lemon slices, consider adding orange or lime slices, or even just the zest, to the poaching liquid for different vibrant citrus undertones that can truly brighten the chicken.
• Expand Your Vegetable Medley: Along with the staple onion and celery, you can incorporate other aromatic vegetables into the pot. Sliced carrots, parsnips, or even a few mushroom stems can add further depth and umami to the poaching liquid. Remember that these vegetables are typically discarded after poaching, as their flavor has been fully extracted into the broth.
• Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes can infuse a gentle warmth and subtle spice into the chicken, creating a more dynamic flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perfectly Poach Chicken Breasts

Achieving perfectly tender and incredibly juicy poached chicken is all about mastering the ideal temperature control and employing the correct technique. While many recipes often suggest adding chicken directly to boiling water, for the most succulent and consistently delicious results, we advocate for starting the chicken breasts in cold water. This gentle approach allows the chicken to heat up gradually with the surrounding liquid, preventing the muscle fibers from seizing up, thus ensuring maximum tenderness and moisture retention.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin your poaching process by carefully trimming any visible excess fat or undesirable connective tissue from your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This ensures a cleaner, leaner finished product. Once trimmed, gently place the prepared chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan. It’s important to choose a pot that is just large enough to hold all the chicken breasts comfortably without overcrowding them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and can also lower the liquid temperature too much.
2. Submerge in Cold Liquid: Next, generously cover the chicken breasts with cold water, chicken broth, vegetable broth, or your preferred poaching liquid. Ensure that the liquid completely submerges the chicken by at least one to two inches. This complete submersion is absolutely crucial for promoting even cooking and, most importantly, for preventing the exposed parts of the chicken from drying out. At this stage, add your sea salt and black peppercorns directly into the cold liquid to allow their flavors to infuse from the start.
3. Initiate the Gentle Simmer: Place the pot over medium heat. Slowly and patiently bring the liquid temperature up to a very gentle simmer. You should begin to observe tiny bubbles forming consistently at the bottom and along the sides of the pot. The surface of the liquid should barely ripple, indicating a gentle movement, but it should never reach a rolling boil. This slow and controlled heating process is a fundamental key to keeping the chicken wonderfully tender.
4. Skim and Infuse with Aromatics: As the liquid gradually heats and the chicken begins its cooking journey, some grayish foam or scum may naturally rise to the surface. Use a slotted spoon or a small ladle to carefully skim this foam off and discard it. Once the liquid is gently simmering and you’ve removed the foam, it’s time to add all your chosen aromatics: the sliced onion (or leek/shallot), bright lemon slices, crisp celery, aromatic garlic cloves, fragrant bay leaves, and fresh thyme sprigs. If your recipe includes dry white wine, now is the ideal time to add it to the pot, allowing its flavors to meld with the broth.
5. Poach Until Perfectly Cooked: Once the aromatics are added, reduce the heat to low, ensuring you maintain that very gentle, almost imperceptible simmer. The absolute target internal temperature for fully cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). The total cooking time will vary depending on the specific size and thickness of your chicken breasts. As a general guide, for average-sized breasts (roughly 6-8 ounces each), this usually takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Larger or thicker breasts might require an additional few minutes. The most reliable and essential way to accurately check for doneness is to use a digital instant-read thermometer, inserting the probe into the thickest part of the largest breast. It’s crucial to avoid overcooking, as this is the primary cause of dry, rubbery chicken.
6. Rest and Prepare for Serving: As soon as your chicken reaches the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), immediately and carefully remove the chicken breasts from the hot poaching liquid using tongs. Transfer them to a clean cutting board or plate. Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes is a critical step; this allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in an even more tender and succulent texture. After resting, you can proceed to slice, shred, or dice the chicken as desired for your intended use. Discard the spent poaching liquid and cooked aromatics, as their flavor has been fully extracted. Your perfectly poached chicken can now be served warm, or allowed to cool completely before being refrigerated or frozen for future delicious meals.

Precision Poaching: Temperature and Timing Tips for Success

Understanding the ideal temperature and precise cooking duration is absolutely critical for achieving perfectly tender and exceptionally juicy poached chicken. Here’s a closer look at these vital elements to ensure your poaching success every single time:

• Ideal Poaching Temperature Range: The optimal water temperature for poaching chicken breasts consistently ranges between 160°F and 180°F (71°C and 82°C). This specific range is carefully chosen to ensure a gentle, slow cook that prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery or, worse, dry. If you notice the water beginning to boil rapidly with large, rolling bubbles, it’s a clear indication that the temperature is too high. In this case, immediately reduce the heat to maintain a subtle shimmer and occasional small bubbles on the surface. For home cooks new to poaching, or those who simply desire maximum precision, a digital kitchen thermometer can be an invaluable tool for accurately monitoring the liquid temperature throughout the process.
• Mastering the Poaching Timing: The exact cooking time required for poached chicken breasts largely depends on two primary factors: the initial thickness and overall size of your chicken breasts, and the consistency with which you maintain your poaching liquid’s temperature.
  • Smaller Breasts (approximately 4-6 ounces each): These cuts typically require a poaching time of 10-15 minutes to reach the desired internal temperature.
  • Medium Breasts (approximately 6-8 ounces each): You can expect these to be perfectly done within 15-18 minutes.
  • Large Breasts (8 ounces and above, or particularly thick cuts): These substantial pieces may take anywhere from 18-25 minutes to cook through. For instance, the chicken breasts showcased in the photos for this very recipe were quite robust, with two breasts together weighing nearly 1 ½ pounds, providing enough succulent chicken for 4 servings. These larger pieces required approximately 16-18 minutes to reach their perfect internal temperature.

  The overarching key to successful poaching is not to rely solely on estimated time frames, but to always, unequivocally verify doneness with a reliable digital instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the largest chicken breast. The chicken is safe and perfectly cooked when it consistently registers an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Trusting the thermometer will be your greatest ally in ensuring your chicken is never undercooked or, more commonly, overcooked and subsequently dry.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Poached Chicken Breasts

Once you have a batch of perfectly poached chicken breasts, the culinary possibilities are truly endless. Its mild, clean, and incredibly tender nature makes it an astonishingly versatile ingredient suitable for both hot and cold dishes, transforming everyday meals into something special. Here are some inspiring and delicious ideas to effortlessly incorporate your poached chicken into a variety of delightful meals:

• Elevate Your Chicken Salads to New Heights: Poached chicken is the ultimate, most succulent base for any chicken salad you can imagine. Its tender texture and neutral flavor absorb dressings beautifully. Cut it into small, uniform cubes and mix it with your favorite dressings and additions. Try a timeless classic creamy chicken salad with crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and a touch of mayonnaise, or venture into more exotic territory with a vibrant curried chicken salad featuring sweet red grapes and toasted cashews for delightful texture.
• Enhance Green Salads for a Satisfying Meal: Thinly slice or gently shred the chicken and artfully arrange it over a vibrant bed of fresh mixed greens. It pairs wonderfully with virtually any dressing, from a light lemon vinaigrette to a more elaborate, flavorful option. Consider it a protein powerhouse for a refreshing Chinese chicken salad, complemented by a creamy ginger dressing, or a hearty Cobb salad. It adds lean protein without ever overpowering the fresh, crisp flavors of your greens.
• Boost Pasta Salads for a Hearty Main: Dice your perfectly poached chicken and effortlessly toss it into your favorite pasta salad recipe. It’s absolutely fantastic in a robust Caesar pasta salad, providing a satisfying texture and a substantial protein boost that seamlessly transforms a humble side dish into a fulfilling main course, perfect for picnics or potlucks.
• Quick & Easy Sandwiches and Wraps: For a speedy and incredibly flavorful lunch, shred or finely chop the tender chicken, then mix it with just a touch of mayonnaise and a dollop of spicy Dijon mustard for a simple yet incredibly satisfying “1-minute” chicken salad sandwich filling. It’s also superb layered in wraps with fresh vegetables and a squeeze of lime.
• Hearty Soups and Stews Addition: Add shredded or diced poached chicken to your favorite comforting soups (like classic chicken noodle, a spicy tortilla soup, or a creamy chicken and wild rice soup), hearty stews, or even a robust chili during the last few few minutes of cooking. Since it’s already cooked, it simply needs to warm through, ensuring it remains moist and adds wonderful substance without drying out.
• Comforting Casseroles Made Simple: Poached chicken is an exceptional choice for casseroles, providing moist and flavorful chicken without the need for additional pre-cooking steps. Incorporate it effortlessly into dishes like chicken and rice casserole, a creamy chicken pot pie, or a cheesy pasta bake for family-friendly meals.
• Flavorful Pasta Dishes: Toss shredded or diced chicken with your preferred pasta shape and sauce – whether it’s a bright pesto, a rich marinara, a decadent creamy Alfredo, or a vibrant lemon-garlic butter sauce – for a quick, elegant, and satisfying dinner that comes together in minutes.
• Gourmet Tacos or Quesadillas: Lightly season shredded poached chicken with your favorite taco spices and use it as a delightful, lean filling for soft tacos, hearty burritos, or gooey, cheesy quesadillas. It offers a healthier alternative to ground meat options.

Chef’s Note on Yield: When planning your meals and quantities, it’s helpful to remember that one pound of raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts typically yields approximately 12 ounces of cooked poached chicken. This is a very useful guideline to keep in mind, especially if you are poaching them for a specific recipe that requires a precise amount of cooked chicken, helping you avoid under- or over-preparation.

Storing Your Poached Chicken Breasts for Future Meals

One of the greatest and most practical benefits of preparing poached chicken is its excellent shelf life and versatility, making it an absolutely fantastic ingredient for efficient meal prep. Proper storage is paramount to ensure your chicken remains fresh, safe, and utterly delicious for days or even months to come, allowing you to maximize its utility.

• Refrigeration for Short-Term Freshness: Once your perfectly poached chicken breasts have cooled completely to room temperature (this is a critical step to prevent bacterial growth), transfer them promptly to an airtight container. An airtight container is essential not only to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria but also to protect the chicken from absorbing unwanted odors from other foods in your refrigerator. Stored correctly, poached chicken will remain wonderfully fresh and entirely safe to eat for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. This makes it an ideal candidate for cooking a larger batch on a relaxing Sunday afternoon and seamlessly incorporating it into various meals throughout your busy work week. For even greater convenience, consider separating individual portions into smaller containers or resealable bags for effortless grab-and-go lunches.
• Freezing for Long-Term Storage: Poached chicken freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to extend its shelf life significantly, providing ready-to-use protein whenever you need it.
  1. Cool Completely First: Before even thinking about freezing, ensure the chicken is entirely cooled to room temperature. Introducing warm chicken into the freezer can create unwanted condensation, which leads to the formation of ice crystals and dreaded freezer burn, compromising texture and flavor.
  2. Portion and Wrap Methodically: You have the flexibility to freeze whole breasts, or to slice, dice, or shred the chicken according to your typical usage. For the very best results and ultimate ease of future use, consider portioning the chicken into amounts you’re likely to use in a single meal or recipe. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into heavy-duty freezer-safe bags or rigid airtight containers. Actively removing as much air as possible from freezer bags (using a straw or vacuum sealer) is a key step that significantly helps prevent freezer burn.
  3. Label and Date Religiously: Always, without fail, label your containers or bags with the contents and the date of freezing. Cooked chicken maintains its absolute best quality when kept frozen for up to 4 months. While it will technically remain safe to consume beyond this time frame, its texture and flavor may gradually start to degrade.
  4. Safe Thawing Practices: For the safest and most effective thawing, always transfer frozen poached chicken from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight. For a quicker thawing method when time is short, you can place the sealed package of chicken (in its freezer bag or container) in a bowl of cold water in your sink, making sure to change the water every 30 minutes until the chicken is fully thawed. Never, under any circumstances, thaw chicken at room temperature, as this can promote rapid bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Poaching Chicken Breasts

Your Culinary Journey Continues!

Now that you possess the comprehensive knowledge and clear, actionable steps to master perfectly poached chicken breasts, it’s time to enthusiastically put your newfound skills to the test! This versatile, healthy, and incredibly tender chicken will undoubtedly become an indispensable staple in your kitchen, opening up endless possibilities for crafting delicious, nutritious, and satisfying meals. Whether you’re aiming to whip up a quick weeknight dinner, efficiently preparing for a week of healthy lunches, or simply searching for a lean, flavorful protein addition to your cherished family recipes, perfectly poached chicken is your ultimate answer.

We absolutely love hearing about your culinary experiences and triumphs in the kitchen! If you decide to try this easy poached chicken breast recipe, please take a moment to generously share your feedback and insights in the comments section located below. Your valuable insights, tips, and suggestions are incredibly precious to us and greatly help our vibrant community of home cooks. And if you truly loved the delectable results, a 5-star rating would be profoundly appreciated – it genuinely helps other readers discover this fantastic and foolproof recipe! Should you have any questions, require further tips, or encounter any culinary curiosities along the way, please do not hesitate to ask. Happy poaching, and happy cooking!

📖 Recipe

Easy Poached Chicken Breasts

Sally Cameron

Master the simple, classic cooking method for perfectly poached chicken breasts. This easy and quick recipe is ideal for busy cooks, yielding tender, juicy chicken perfect for quick weeknight dinners topped with a delicious sauce or vinaigrette, and as a versatile protein in entrée salads for both dinner and lunch. It’s a foundational skill that opens up a world of healthy, flavorful meal possibilities.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 239 kcal

Equipment

• ▢
  Medium size pan or pot

Ingredients

  

• ▢ 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
• ▢ ½ small onion sliced, or use a leek or a few shallots
• ▢ ½ lemon thinly sliced
• ▢ ½ cup dry white wine optional, or use more broth
• ▢ 1 rib celery roughly chopped
• ▢ 3 garlic cloves peeled and lightly crushed
• ▢ 2 bay leaves fresh or dried
• ▢ 1 small handful fresh thyme sprigs
• ▢ 1 teaspoon black peppercorns whole
• ▢ ⅛ teaspoon sea salt or to taste

Instructions

 

• Begin by trimming any excess fat from your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place the trimmed chicken breasts in a pot or pan that is just large enough to hold them in a single layer without overcrowding. Cover the chicken completely with cold water or broth by about two inches, ensuring that the chicken will be totally submerged. Add the sea salt and black peppercorns at this stage.
• Place the pot over medium heat and slowly bring the water up to a very gentle simmer. You should see small bubbles forming at the bottom and sides of the pot, but the surface should barely ripple (the water temperature should ideally be between 160° – 180°F). As the liquid heats, skim any grayish foam that develops on the surface and discard it. Once skimming is complete and the liquid is gently simmering, turn the heat down to low to maintain the gentle simmer, then add the sliced onion (or leek/shallot), lemon, white wine (if using), chopped celery, crushed garlic, bay leaves, and fresh thyme sprigs.
• Continue to poach the chicken breasts at this very gentle simmer until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a digital instant-read thermometer, inserted into the thickest part of the largest breast, to accurately test for doneness. The timing for poaching will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts; typically, they will cook in approximately 15-18 minutes for average-sized breasts. As soon as they are done, immediately remove the chicken breasts from the pot using tongs. You can serve them warm right away, or allow them to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freezing for future use for up to 4 months. Discard the poaching liquid and cooked aromatics after use.

Nutrition

Calories: 239kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 39gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 107mgSodium: 158mgPotassium: 696mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 29IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1mg

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