How To Boil A Chicken

Boiling chicken is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to prepare this staple protein. Achieving the right balance between tenderness and flavor can be tricky if you're not familiar with the technique. Whether you're working with chicken breasts, thighs or even a whole bird, our user-friendly guide walks you through everything you need to know for success.

From choosing the right cut and prepping your ingredients, to selecting seasonings that will elevate your dish, Pillsbury’s heritage of wholesome, family-forward cooking is here to help you create perfectly boiled chicken every time. Boiled chicken can be used for a variety of delicious meals, whether shredded, sliced or as an ingredient in soups. Food safety tips will be covered to keep your meals healthy and safe.

Steps to Boil Chicken Perfectly

1. Choose Your Chicken

The first step in boiling chicken is selecting the right cut based on your needs. Chicken Breasts are ideal for lean, fast-cooking meals such as shredding in salads, tacos, or wraps. Bone-in thighs provide a richer, more flavorful option that’s hard to overcook. Thighs are great for soups, stews, or as a standalone main dish. Whole Chickens are best for preparing large meals or making broth. A whole bird offers a variety of textures and flavors – from tender breasts to juicier thighs and drumsticks.

2. Prep Ingredients and Seasonings

Boiling chicken does more than just cook the meat – it provides an opportunity to impart rich flavors. While boiling chicken in plain water works, you can enhance it with seasonings to transform your dish or make a rich broth with the finished water.

Basic Flavorings

Salt and Pepper are a kitchen staple for adding flavor. Garlic Cloves are a great option to add depth and aromatic qualities. Onion Slices are a great addition for subtle sweetness. Bay Leaves offer fragrant, earthy notes. Fresh or Dried Herbs such as thyme, rosemary or parsley for add dimension. Using all of the above will give you a rich and flavorful standard broth profile.

3. Cooking Times for Different Cuts

Achieving perfectly boiled chicken every time depends heavily on the cooking duration. Undercooking can lead to food safety concerns, while overcooking risks dry, flavorless meat.

Chicken Breasts

Breast meat should boil for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness. Lean meats like chicken breast can dry out easily, so avoid boiling past their optimal time.

Chicken Thighs (Bone-In)

Thighs with the bones still in are very forgiving and can be boiled for 25-30 minutes. They retain moisture exceptionally well, making them ideal if you plan on serving a rich dish.

Whole Chicken

When boiling a full bird it requires more time, approximately 20 minutes per pound. A whole chicken generally takes 60-90 minutes depending on the size.

Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Don’t forget to let the chicken rest for a few minutes – about 3 minutes – before cutting into it. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and succulent.

4. Using Boiled Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, you want to maximize its potential in your dishes. Here's how to use boiled chicken once prepared.

Shredded Chicken

While the chicken is still slightly warm, shred it using two forks or your fingers. Shredded chicken works wonderfully in many dishes and the thin pieces mix seamlessly into a variety of meals.

Chicken Cubes or Slices

Looking for a quick, protein-packed dish? Sliced or cubed boiled chicken provides tender cuts to layer onto a sandwich or mix into a dish. Try some of our easy-to-prepare options that your whole family will love.

Use the Broth

Never let your broth go to waste! After boiling chicken, strain the liquid to use as a flavorful base for soups, stews, or to enhance grains like rice or quinoa. Store properly in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for later use. The broth makes an excellent base for a cozy homemade soup or even as a cooking liquid for other meals. If you prepare ahead you can use the meat and the broth for a real homemade feel to some of our favorite dishes. You'll notice these recommended recipes start with store bought soups, but using your own will add that extra flavor and love! Be sure to play around with the salt levels of the dish when adding a homemade broth until you find your family favorite.

For more recipe ideas on how to use your boiled chicken once prepared checkout our other chicken recipes, full of meals ideas your entire family will love.

Boiling chicken doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. With Pillsbury’s trusted guidance and focus on versatile, everyday ingredients, you can craft a perfectly boiled chicken. Whether it's shredded, sliced, or added to soups, boiled chicken opens the door to a world of delicious, easy-to-make dinners.