Cooked Chicken Recipe

A simple, tender, and flavorful cooked chicken recipe made with everyday ingredients. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, rice, pasta, and meal prep.

This cooked chicken recipe is an easy, reliable way to make juicy chicken with a clean, mild flavor that works in countless dishes. The chicken is gently simmered with aromatics and seasonings until tender, then served as is or shredded for salads, soups, wraps, tacos, rice bowls, and more. It is a practical staple for everyday cooking and meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns or ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley stems
• 1 carrot, cut into large pieces, optional

Instructions

1. Place the chicken in a medium pot and add the water or broth.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and parsley. If using, add the carrot.
3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat.
4. Simmer uncovered or partially covered for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 F.
5. Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Serve whole, slice it, or shred it with two forks.
7. Use immediately in your favorite dishes, or cool and store for later use.