How long should I boil chicken to make shredded chicken for salads?

Question

Get the optimal boiling time for juicy, shreddable chicken ideal for salads.

Answer 1

Boil chicken breasts for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), to ensure it's fully cooked and easily shreddable. The exact time depends on the thickness of the chicken.

Detailed Explanation:

Boiling chicken for shredding is a simple process, but achieving the right texture requires attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large pot. You can also use bone-in chicken, but it will take longer to cook.
2. Cover with Liquid: Add enough cold water or chicken broth to completely cover the chicken by about an inch. Using broth will add more flavor to the chicken.
3. Season (Optional): Add salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings (such as bay leaves, garlic powder, or onion powder) to the water or broth.
4. Bring to a Boil: Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
5. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer gently. Simmering is key to tender chicken.
6. Cook Time: Cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. Bone-in chicken will take longer, typically 20-25 minutes.
7. Rest: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful shredded chicken.
8. Shred: Use two forks to shred the chicken. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed for faster shredding.

Pro Tip:

Avoid overcooking the chicken, as this will make it dry and difficult to shred. Start checking the internal temperature around 12 minutes and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).