Classic Boiled Chicken is your go-to recipe for tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. It’s a versatile dish that can stand alone or serve as the foundation for countless meals. It's perfect for those days when you need something simple yet satisfying.
The star here is the chicken, providing both meat and flavor for the broth. Fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery add depth and sweetness. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors, while bay leaves and garlic infuse aromatic notes. Together, these simple ingredients create a well-rounded, savory dish.
Boiled chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal. Shred the chicken and toss it with pasta, or serve it in tacos with fresh salsa and avocado. The broth can be a base for a heartwarming chicken noodle soup, or simply sip it as a nourishing broth.
Start by rinsing your chicken under cold water to clean any residual mess. Check the cavity for any giblets — they sometimes hide out in there. Once you have a clean bird, place it in a large pot.
Next, cover the chicken with water. You'll want about 8 cups, enough to submerge it. Add the salt, black pepper, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and bay leaves. These will slowly release their flavors as the water heats up.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer away for 1.5 to 2 hours. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and tender.
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy. Strain the broth through a sieve to remove the solids, leaving you with a clear, fragrant broth for use in soups or other recipes.
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