I’ve said it over and over again: in cooking, the simplest things are often the hardest to get right, and poached chicken is a perfect example. Because chicken breasts are extra lean and poaching requires zero fat, poached chicken is typically really dry. Most recipes mistakenly call for simmering boneless skinless chicken breasts over very low heat until cooked through. I prefer to use chicken tenderloins, which are more tender than whole breasts. And instead of simmering the tenderloins over low heat, I place them in a pot of boiling salted water, immediately remove the pot from the heat and cover it with a lid, and let it sit for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the chicken is just cooked through. This method guarantees succulent chicken every time.
What You’ll Need To Make Tender Poached Chicken
In a large pot, bring 2-1/2 quarts of water and the salt to a boil. 
Remove the pot from the heat and add the chicken.
Immediately cover the pot with a lid, and let sit, off the heat, for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the chicken is just cooked through.
Using tongs, transfer the poached chicken to a cutting board.
Let cool, then shred, discarding the tough tendon at the end of each tenderloin. Transfer the chicken to an airtight container, and refrigerate until ready to use. The poached chicken will keep for 3 to 4 days.
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FAQ
Is it better to boil or steam chicken?
Does steaming chicken keep it moist?
Can you overcook steamed chicken?
How long do you Steam Chicken in a steamer?
Put your chicken pieces in the steamer without overcrowding them. Make sure there is some space between each one so the steam can get in, circulate, and cook the chicken evenly. Cover the pot and let the chicken cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until done. That’s how easy it is to learn how to steam chicken.
How long do you cook chicken strips?
Use a baking sheet: Place the chicken strips on a baking sheet or tray and avoid overcrowding the tray. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to cook unevenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes: The cooking time for chicken strips can vary depending on the size and thickness of the strips.
How long does it take to steam a chicken breast?
The ideal cooking time for an 8 to 9 ounce chicken breast was 20 minutes of steaming. A steamer basket should not touch the water when it is inside a pot that has about an inch of water in it. Feb 27, 2019. Can you cook chicken by steaming it?
How long do frozen chicken strips take to cook?
Frozen chicken strips typically take around 20-25 minutes to cook in a preheated oven. However, it is vital to monitor the strips closely as cooking times can vary depending on the brand and size of the chicken strips. To ensure they are cooked thoroughly, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest strip.