How Long to Boil Chicken Breast

Quick answer

Internal temperature of 165°F (74°C); juices run clear.

Times by doneness

Thin / small breast

12 min

Average boneless breast

15 min

Large / thick breast

18 min

Tips

Simmer gently rather than hard-boil, and let it rest 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Common mistake

Hard, rolling boil the whole time — it makes the outside rubbery before the center is safe.