Name: Juicy Poached Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 8.5 ounces each); 1 piece lemon (quartered); 1 leaf bay leaf; 2 cloves garlic (minced)

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Whenever I think about comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Juicy Poached Chicken. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly brings warmth and satisfaction, making you feel right at home. I remember the first time I made this for a cozy family dinner. My kitchen was filled with the enticing aroma of simmering chicken, and my family’s eager anticipation filled the air. It was a simple yet elegant meal that impressed everyone at the table. Poaching chicken is not only convenient but also a fantastic way to keep the meat tender and juicy. Each bite melts in your mouth, and it pairs beautifully with virtually any side. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Juicy Poached Chicken never disappoints.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
37 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife

Why This Juicy Poached Chicken Works

It’s Incredibly Tender

One of the best things about Juicy Poached Chicken is the tenderness. Poaching gently cooks the chicken in a flavorful broth, ensuring it stays moist and succulent. Unlike frying or roasting, which can dry the meat out, poaching allows the chicken to retain its natural juices.

Healthy Cooking Method

When you poach chicken, you’re choosing a healthier cooking method. There’s no added fat or oil, which makes it a guilt-free option. It’s perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake or looking to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, the resultant broth can be used for soups or sauces, providing extra flavor without extra calories!

Quick and Easy

Even if you’re new to cooking, Juicy Poached Chicken is a breeze to make. The steps are straightforward, and it requires minimal effort. You can have a delicious meal on the table in less than an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

Versatile and Adaptable

This dish is highly versatile. You can add different herbs and spices to the poaching liquid, depending on your mood or what you have on hand. From lemon and garlic to rosemary and thyme, the flavor possibilities are endless. It’s a canvas for your creativity!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Making a big batch of Juicy Poached Chicken is great for meal prep. You can use the poached chicken throughout the week in salads, sandwiches, or as a protein for grain bowls. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you have healthy options ready to go for busy days.

Family-Friendly

This recipe is a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. The mild flavor of poached chicken makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters, and you can serve it in various ways to keep things interesting.

Recipe Ingredients for Juicy Poached Chicken

The ingredients for Juicy Poached Chicken are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and ensuring the chicken remains moist. The combination of fresh ingredients not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall healthiness of the dish.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 8.5 ounces each) – The star of the show! These chicken breasts are lean and cook beautifully when poached, turning out tender and juicy every time.
1 lemon (quartered) – Adds a refreshing zing and bright flavor to the poaching liquid, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
1 bay leaf – A subtle aromatic flavor enhancer that brings depth to the poaching broth.
2 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the chicken with a delightful garlic flavor, making each bite irresistible.

Putting Together Juicy Poached Chicken

Making Juicy Poached Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps carefully for perfectly poached chicken. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!

Remove the chicken breasts from the fridge and let them rest for 30 minutes prior to cooking so they come to room temperature. This step is essential for even cooking.
Fill a saucepan with enough water to submerge the chicken breasts by at least 2 inches when placed in a single layer. The water should be cool at this point.
To the water, add the quartered lemon, bay leaf, and minced garlic. This will create a flavorful broth that will enhance the taste of the chicken.
Bring the water to a rolling boil. Keep an eye on it as it heats up, ensuring it doesn’t boil over.
Carefully place the chicken breasts in the boiling water, cover with a lid, and bring back up to a boil. This step is crucial for the poaching process.
Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to poach in the hot water. The residual heat will cook the chicken gently.
After poaching, remove the chicken breasts from the water and slice to check for doneness. You can also use a meat thermometer; the chicken is done when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
If not serving immediately, allow the chicken to cool uncovered before storing in the fridge. This step prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.

Things Worth Knowing

Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has reached at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
Seasoning the Water: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the poaching liquid for extra flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to poach the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after poaching helps retain moisture.

Recipe Notes about Juicy Poached Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to adapt it to suit your taste. Here are some tips to enhance your poaching experience.

Storage: Store any leftover poached chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze poached chicken for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Pairing: Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or on top of grains like quinoa for a complete meal.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the poaching liquid for different flavor profiles.
Meal Prep: Make a batch of poached chicken at the start of the week for quick meal options.

Serving Ideas for Juicy Poached Chicken

Serving Juicy Poached Chicken is all about creativity and balance. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enhance your meal.

On a Bed of Greens: Slice the poached chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
Grain Bowls: Add the chicken to bowls filled with farro, quinoa, or brown rice, topped with roasted seasonal veggies.
Perfect for Wraps: Shred the chicken and use it in wraps with your favorite toppings and sauces for a quick lunch.
Classic Chicken Salad: Use diced poached chicken to create a delicious chicken salad with grapes, nuts, and mayo. Serve it on a sandwich or lettuce leaves.
For Special Occasions: Plate it elegantly with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus for a dinner party.

FAQ

To ensure that your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check if the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken. If it’s still pink, it needs more cooking time. It’s essential to check for doneness, especially with poultry, to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

While it’s best to use thawed chicken for poaching, you can poach frozen chicken. Just keep in mind that it may take a little longer to cook through. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You may also need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time, as the water will take longer to come back to a boil after adding frozen chicken.

Leftover Juicy Poached Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can use it in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, or wraps. It’s also great for adding protein to grain bowls or stir-fries. Simply shred or slice the chicken and incorporate it into your favorite recipes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Absolutely! Adding spices and herbs to the poaching water enhances the flavor of the chicken. Consider using bay leaves, peppercorns, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a splash of lemon juice. The beauty of poaching is that you can customize the flavors to suit your preferences, making it a delightful experience every time.

Conclusion

The magic of Juicy Poached Chicken lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can transform a mundane meal into something special with minimal effort. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or incorporating it into salads and wraps, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll fall in love with how easy and delicious it is!

Juicy Poached Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Juicy Poached Chicken is easy to make and incredibly tender. This dish delivers juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with any side, making it a must-try for dinner tonight!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Large Pot
Frying Pan
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts approximately 8.5 ounces each
1 piece lemon quartered
1 leaf bay leaf
2 cloves garlic minced

Instructions

Remove the chicken breasts from the fridge and let rest 30 minutes prior to cooking so they come to room temperature.
Fill a saucepan with enough water to submerge the chicken breasts by at least 2 inches when placed in a single layer.
To the water, add the quartered lemon, bay leaf, and minced garlic.
Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Carefully place the chicken breasts in the boiling water, cover with a lid, and bring back up to a boil.
Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to poach in the hot water.
After poaching, remove the chicken breasts from the water and slice to check for doneness.
If not serving immediately, allow the chicken to cool uncovered before storing in the fridge.

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover poached chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze poached chicken for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Pairing: Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or on top of grains like quinoa for a complete meal.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the poaching liquid for different flavor profiles.
Meal Prep: Make a batch of poached chicken at the start of the week for quick meal options.