Description

Poached Chicken for Juicy Tender Meat is a simple and reliable cooking method that produces moist, tender, and flavorful chicken perfect for salads, sandwiches, soups, or main dishes. This gentle poaching technique uses everyday ingredients and fresh aromatics to enhance the natural taste of the chicken while keeping it juicy and healthy. With easy steps and versatile variations, this recipe is an excellent addition to any meal plan.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Poaching Liquid

4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
1 small onion, cut into wedges
3 garlic cloves, smashed
1 celery stalk, sliced
1 small carrot, sliced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 sprigs fresh parsley
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)

Optional Variations

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 sliced jalapeño for a spicy twist
2 slices lemon or orange for citrus infusion
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or sage instead of fresh herbs
2 slices ginger, 1 star anise, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce (natural) for Asian-inspired flavor
1/4 cup chopped smoked turkey bacon for smoky richness

Instructions

Prepare Your Poaching Liquid: In a wide saucepan, combine water or low-sodium chicken broth with onion wedges, garlic cloves, celery slices, carrot slices, fresh thyme, parsley, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, making sure not to boil vigorously.
Add the Chicken: Gently lower the chicken breasts or thighs into the simmering liquid, ensuring they are fully submerged. Reduce the heat to low so the liquid remains just below a boil, then cover the pan to maintain a slow simmer.
Cook with Patience: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the thickness, without lifting the lid or stirring. This slow cooking process ensures tenderness and juiciness.
Rest and Slice: Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the poaching liquid and place on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute before slicing or shredding as desired.

Notes

Use fresh aromatics and herbs to enhance flavor.
Maintain a gentle simmer and avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender.
Pound chicken uniformly if pieces are uneven for even cooking.
Reserve the poaching liquid for soups or sauces to maximize flavor.
Always rest chicken after cooking for juicy results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Poaching
Cuisine: Universal

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: poached chicken, tender chicken, moist chicken, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken cooking, chicken salads, chicken dinners