How Long to Boil Chicken Breast? The Straight Answer 🍗
- Carla Morel
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
Boiling chicken breast seems simple, but timing is everything. Cook it too little, and it’s unsafe. Cook it too long, and it’s dry and stringy.
Learning how long to boil chicken breast helps you get juicy, tender results every time while keeping food safety in check.
Why Boil Chicken at All?
Boiled chicken breast isn’t glamorous, but it’s a kitchen workhorse. It’s quick, healthy, and versatile—perfect for salads, sandwiches, meal prep, or shredded chicken recipes. Boiling locks in protein without added fats, making it a go-to for health-conscious cooks.
How Long to Boil Chicken Breast?
The short answer: 12–15 minutes for boneless, skinless chicken breasts once the water reaches a rolling boil.
For larger breasts, aim closer to 15–18 minutes.
For smaller cuts or thin pieces, 10–12 minutes is enough.
Always check with a food thermometer: the internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: Don’t just time it—always check the thickest part with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
How Long Does It Take to Boil Chicken (Other Cuts)?
Chicken comes in many forms, and boiling times vary.
Cut of Chicken | Boiling Time (Once Water Boils) | Notes |
Boneless chicken breast | 12–15 minutes | Best for shredding, salads, meal prep |
Bone-in chicken breast | 25–30 minutes | Bone slows cooking; adds flavor |
Chicken thighs (boneless) | 15–20 minutes | Juicy, forgiving cut |
Chicken thighs (bone-in) | 30–35 minutes | Great for soups and stews |
Whole chicken | 60–90 minutes | Use for broths and soups |
Frozen chicken breast | 18–22 minutes | Add 5–7 minutes to thaw safely in pot |
Can You Boil Frozen Chicken?
Yes—you can boil frozen chicken safely, but it takes longer. Add about 5–7 extra minutes for frozen chicken breasts.
The key is ensuring the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t guess—always check the internal temperature.
How to Boil Chicken Breast for Best Results
Start with cold water – Place chicken in the pot, cover with cold water or broth.
Add flavor – Throw in garlic, onion, herbs, peppercorns, or bouillon for taste.
Bring to a boil – Once boiling, reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook – Follow the times above.
Check temperature – Always ensure it hits 165°F (74°C).
Boiling too hard will make chicken tough. Keep it at a gentle simmer for tender meat.
Tips for Shredding Boiled Chicken
Let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding.
Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
Store leftovers in broth to keep them moist.
Common Mistakes When Boiling Chicken
Boiling at high heat the whole time – This makes meat rubbery. Simmer instead.
Not seasoning the water – Chicken absorbs flavor from the broth or aromatics.
Guessing doneness – Always use a thermometer. Color alone isn’t reliable.
FAQ
How long to boil chicken breast? About 12–15 minutes for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
How long does it take to boil chicken? It depends on the cut: breasts take 12–30 minutes, thighs 15–35 minutes, whole chicken up to 90 minutes.
How long to boil chicken thighs? Boneless thighs take 15–20 minutes; bone-in thighs take 30–35 minutes.
Can you boil frozen chicken? Yes, but add 5–7 extra minutes and always check it reaches 165°F.
How to tell if chicken is done boiling? Insert a thermometer into the thickest part—165°F means safe to eat.
Is boiled chicken healthy? Yes, it’s lean, protein-packed, and contains no added oils or fats.
For quick conversions, here’s the straight answer to how many teaspoons in a tablespoon.
Conclusion
So, how long to boil chicken breast? The reliable answer is 12–15 minutes for boneless, skinless breasts, longer for bone-in or frozen cuts. Keep the heat at a simmer, season the water, and always check for 165°F. Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, juicy chicken every time.
Comments