Poached Chicken Breasts

Name: Poached Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g / 1.1 lb); 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt or cooking salt; 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns; 6 stems of parsley; ½ medium lemon, cut into four pieces; 3 cloves garlic, peeled and gently smashed; 4-5 cups (1.25 L) filtered water; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup (250 ml) chicken stock; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley; ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 27, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Poached Chicken Breasts are one of those delicious recipes that make cooking feel effortless. If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dish, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to serve them with salads, incorporate them into sandwiches, or enjoy them alongside a steaming bowl of rice, this recipe has you covered. The beauty of poaching chicken is how it retains moisture and flavor while keeping things health-conscious. With a few fresh ingredients and some gentle simmering, you can bring restaurant-quality chicken to your table.

Jump to:

In this post, I’m excited to share with you not only how to make these tender poached chicken breasts but also tips to elevate your dish. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Poached Chicken Breasts

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with poached chicken breasts. For one, they’re incredibly tender and moist, a result of gentle cooking. There’s no need for complicated techniques. Honestly, poaching chicken is so simple; it feels like you’re just hanging out in the kitchen, letting the magic happen.

Another reason? Versatility! Poached chicken can fit seamlessly into various dishes. You can toss it into a salad, slice it for wraps, or serve it warm with a drizzle of sauce. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the aromatic ingredients you’ll add while cooking. Plus, it’s a healthier option, as it requires minimal fat for cooking.

Once you try this method, you might find yourself poaching chicken more often. It’s pretty nifty to add to your cooking repertoire!

What is a Poached Chicken Breasts

Poached chicken breasts are simply chicken breasts cooked gently in water or broth. The key here is low heat. You’re aiming for a slow simmer rather than a rapid boil. This technique ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful. The poaching liquid often includes seasonings like herbs and spices, infusing the meat with taste.

Typically, poaching is considered a healthier way to prepare chicken because it doesn’t involve frying or heavy oils. Instead, the chicken simmers in liquid, which keeps it tender. It’s perfect for a variety of recipes or as a standalone dish.

Ingredients for Poached Chicken Breasts

Gathering your ingredients is an essential step. Here’s what you need:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g / 1.1 lb)
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt or cooking salt
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
6 stems of parsley
½ medium lemon, cut into four pieces
3 cloves garlic, peeled and gently smashed
4-5 cups (1.25 L) filtered water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup (250 ml) chicken stock
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

These simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.

Preparing the Poached Chicken Breasts

Now let’s dive into preparing those chicken breasts. You’ll see how easy it is!

Remove Chicken from the Fridge

Start by taking the chicken out of the refrigerator around 20 minutes before you plan to cook. Bringing it to room temperature helps with even cooking.

Combine Ingredients in Pan

In a deep, wide frying pan, place the chicken breasts. Next, add salt, peppercorns, parsley stems, lemon pieces, and garlic around them. You’ll want to ensure the chicken is covered by about 1 cm (½ inch) of water. This helps in cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it juicy.

Heat to a Gentle Simmer

Now, turn the heat to medium-low and cover your pan with a lid. It’s time to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This might take a few minutes, so be patient.

Cook until Done

Once you see the water starting to simmer, tilt the lid slightly. This allows steam to escape and prevents the chicken from boiling. Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). A meat thermometer can be quite handy here.

Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a chopping board for about 5 minutes. This resting phase allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delicious.

Slice or Shred

Finally, using a sharp knife, slice the chicken diagonally or shred it for recipes. This is where your newly poached chicken starts to shine in your chosen dish!

Preparing the Lemon Parsley Sauce

This sauce is an extra touch that enhances the poached chicken experience.

Melt Butter in a Saucepan

Start by melting 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. The aroma of melted butter is just divine!

Mix Flour and Cook

Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter. Whisk to combine, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden. This forms the base of your sauce.

Add Stock and Simmer

Next, stir in the chicken stock. Bring it all to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly, which is just what you want.

Stir in Lemon Juice and Parsley

At this point, add in lemon juice and chopped parsley. Don’t forget to season with black pepper. Taste and adjust if necessary. This sauce adds a vibrant punch to your poached chicken!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have your poached chicken breasts ready and the luscious sauce made, it’s time to think about serving! Here are a few ideas:

Serve with a refreshing salad. Toss some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a bright complement.
Use it as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. Add some crunch with lettuce and your favorite condiments.
Pair with steamed vegetables and grains. Rice or quinoa works beautifully alongside poached chicken.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your poached chicken turns out perfectly:

Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in water. This helps in even cooking.
A meat thermometer can help achieve perfect doneness. Don’t hesitate to use it!
Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing will keep it juicy. Trust us, it makes a difference!

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! Here are some ideas:

Change the herbs. You can try thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with spices. Adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne can bring an exciting kick.
If you’re looking for a richer taste, substitute chicken breasts with thighs. They offer more flavor and are less prone to drying out.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store leftover poached chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it properly!
For longer storage, you can freeze the poached chicken for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Pairing Ideas

Wondering what to serve with your poached chicken? Here are some pairing ideas:

Lemon or garlic-based pasta dishes make a delightful match.
Creamy risotto or quinoa salad can enhance your meal’s texture.
Tacos with fresh toppings bring a fun twist to your dinner.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for poaching?
A1: Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Always make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Q2: How long can poached chicken be stored?
A2: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q3: What should I serve with poached chicken?
A3: Poached chicken pairs nicely with salads, grains, and vegetables.

Q4: Can I poach chicken in broth instead of water?
A4: Absolutely! Using different broths can truly enhance the flavor profile.

Q5: Is poached chicken healthy?
A5: Yes, it’s a low-fat cooking method that keeps the chicken juicy and tender without adding extra calories.

This poached chicken recipe is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. You’ll enjoy perfectly tender and juicy chicken breasts in no time. The versatility allows you to incorporate it into various dishes, making it a staple in your meal prep. So, go ahead and try making it a regular part of your cooking rotation!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card