When it comes to quick and easy meals, boiled chicken is a staple for many of us. It’s a versatile protein that can be seasoned and flavored in countless ways, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table fast. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful boiled chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like garlic and herbs to international twists like Asian-inspired ginger soy and spicy Mexican flavors, there’s something for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making them a success. Whether you’re looking for comforting bowls, flavorful soups, or protein-packed salads, our boiled chicken recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Classic Boiled Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
This timeless recipe yields tender and flavorful boiled chicken infused with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, combine chicken, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the chicken by about an inch.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Strain the broth and discard solids (or reserve for another use).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian-Inspired Ginger Soy Boiled Chicken
Asian-Inspired Ginger Soy Boiled Chicken Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a delicious and aromatic boiled chicken dish with an Asian twist. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a flavorful addition to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and place it in a large pot or steamer basket.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sliced ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and white pepper.
3. Pour the ginger-soy mixture over the chicken.
4. Add salt to taste, if desired.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and boil for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Mexican Boiled Chicken for Tacos
This recipe adds a bold twist to traditional boiled chicken with the addition of spicy Mexican flavors, perfect for tacos or any other dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have tender and flavorful chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken with two forks.
5. Serve the spicy boiled chicken in tacos, salads, or any other dish of your choice. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Boiled Chicken with Vegetables
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe combines the simplicity of boiled chicken with the zesty kick of lemon pepper and the natural sweetness of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, black pepper, lemon zest, and salt.
2. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add sliced lemons, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot.
5. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Thai Coconut Milk Boiled Chicken Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a cold day or whenever you need a soothing meal. With the rich flavor of coconut milk and the comfort of boiled chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in grated ginger and season with salt to taste.
4. Remove the chicken from pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Simple Boiled Chicken Breast for Salads
This simple recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for topping salads or sandwiches. With just a few ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious protein addition to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a large pot or saucepan.
2. Add the salt and pepper to the chicken.
3. Pour enough cold water into the pot to cover the chicken by about an inch.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the pot with tongs or slotted spoon and let it cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Rice Comfort Bowl
This classic comfort food recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. Fluffy rice, tender chicken, and savory broth come together to create a warm and inviting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked.
2. While the rice cooks, place the chicken in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth and set aside.
4. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thyme and cook for 1 minute.
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked rice on the bottom, followed by sliced chicken, and then ladle some of the reserved broth over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Boiled Chicken with Root Vegetables
A simple and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is great for using up any root vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, potatoes, and parsnips.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 root vegetables of your choice (e.g. carrots, potatoes, parsnips)
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat water in a large pot to boiling.
2. Add the chicken to the pot, along with the olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes per pound of chicken (or until cooked through).
4. Add the root vegetables to the pot during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Boiled Chicken Noodle Soup with Carrots
This classic soup recipe is a staple of home cooking, providing warmth and nourishment when you need it most. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and sweet carrots, this comforting meal is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, carrots, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Add egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are cooked al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Boiled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your boiled chicken game with this easy and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of boiled chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are fully submerged in water.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. While the chicken cooks, mix softened butter with minced garlic in a small bowl.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a plate. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Dumplings Homestyle
There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings to soothe the soul. This classic recipe is a staple for any cold-weather comfort food lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, milk, salt, and pepper to make dumpling mixture.
5. Drop the dumplings by spoonfuls onto the surface of the boiling broth.
6. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
7. Serve hot with butter melted on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Boiled Chicken Legs
A flavorful twist on traditional boiled chicken, this recipe infuses tender and juicy legs with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a main course for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend (e.g., Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8 cups water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken legs, Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. If desired, squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boiled Chicken Pho with Fresh Herbs
This recipe is a simplified take on the classic Vietnamese dish, Pho. By boiling chicken and serving it in a fragrant broth with fresh herbs, you’ll enjoy a comforting and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 piece ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– Fresh herbs: basil leaves, mint leaves, cilantro leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, fish sauce (if using), onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Strain the broth and discard solids.
4. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
5. Serve hot with rice noodles, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Boiled Chicken with Olives
Mediterranean Boiled Chicken with Olives Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic Mediterranean boiled chicken recipe, infused with the savory taste of olives. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and place it in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add sliced olives, parsley, garlic, lemon wedges, and oregano on top of the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken (about 4-5 cups).
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Potato Stew
A simple and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor from the chicken, potatoes, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, enough to cover the ingredients
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water, leaving about an inch at the top.
2. Add the chicken, potatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool before shredding or slicing.
6. Strain the broth and discard the vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Indian Spiced Boiled Chicken Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a staple of Indian cuisine, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich spices and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Boil the chicken in a large pot of salted water until cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the onions and garlic until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using) to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and water, then add the cooked chicken to the pot.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste, garnish with cilantro leaves, and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Boiled Chicken with Spinach and Lemon
This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal option for a quick and healthy meal. With the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of spinach, and the tenderness of boiled chicken, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the boiling water, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. While the chicken is cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a plate. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the boiled chicken with wilted spinach and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. Boiled chicken and corn come together to create a creamy, flavorful chowder that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups water
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken and water to a boil in a large pot. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the corn kernels, potatoes, butter, flour, and salt to the pot. Stir until the mixture thickens.
3. Gradually add the whole milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer the chowder for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Boiled Chicken with Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines tender boiled chicken with a rich and savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
2. While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth to create a smooth gravy. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
5. Serve boiled chicken with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Lentil Healthy Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich chicken, fiber-filled lentils, and nutritious vegetables, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. This comforting meal is not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, lentils, carrots, celery, garlic, and onion.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious boiled chicken recipes to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering and flavorful boiled chicken recipes, each with its own unique twist. From classic garlic and herb combinations to international flavors like ginger soy and coconut milk, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of noodle soup or a zesty taco filling, these boiled chicken recipes are sure to become new favorites.