Jamie Oliver Poached Chicken Recipe

Jamie Oliver Poached Chicken is a versatile and healthy dish that results in tender, juicy chicken perfect for salads, sandwiches, or enjoying on its own. Poaching keeps the chicken moist without adding extra fat, and the broth can be flavored with herbs and vegetables to add depth to the dish. This method is ideal for meal prep, offering a simple, clean, and flavorful way to cook chicken.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Healthy and light: Poaching is a great method for cooking chicken without added fats, making it a healthy option.
• Moist and tender chicken: The gentle poaching method ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
• Versatile: Poached chicken can be used in various dishes like salads, sandwiches, or even pasta.
• Simple ingredients: This recipe requires only basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Easy meal prep: Cook a batch of poached chicken and use it throughout the week for quick, healthy meals.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Bread And Butter Pudding Panettone
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts

What is Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish where chicken is gently cooked in water or broth with herbs and vegetables, resulting in tender and moist chicken perfect for salads, sandwiches, or main courses.

Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
• 1 carrot (peeled and chopped)
• 1 celery stalk (chopped)
• 1 onion (peeled and halved)
• 1 bay leaf
• A few sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley
• 1 clove garlic (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water or chicken broth (enough to cover the chicken)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, place the chicken breasts. Add the chopped carrot, celery, onion, bay leaf, thyme (or parsley), and garlic (if using). Season with a little salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add the Liquid

Pour enough cold water or chicken broth into the pot to fully cover the chicken breasts. You can use either water for a lighter flavor or chicken broth for a richer taste.

Step 3: Bring to a Simmer

Place the pot over medium heat and slowly bring the liquid to a simmer. Make sure not to let the liquid boil; it should only simmer gently to ensure the chicken stays tender.

Step 4: Poach the Chicken

Once the liquid reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Turn off the heat and leave the chicken in the liquid for another 5 minutes to finish cooking gently. This will help retain moisture and make the chicken extra tender.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove the chicken breasts from the poaching liquid and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Use the poached chicken in salads, sandwiches, or as a main course with vegetables.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken

• Salads: Slice the poached chicken and add it to your favorite salad for a healthy meal.
• Sandwiches: Use the poached chicken in sandwiches or wraps with fresh vegetables and your favorite condiments.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken with steamed rice or quinoa for a simple and wholesome meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken

• Don’t let the liquid boil: Boiling the chicken can make it tough. Keep the liquid at a gentle simmer for the best results.
• Use broth for extra flavor: Poaching the chicken in chicken broth instead of water adds more depth of flavor.
• Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest in the poaching liquid after cooking to ensure it stays juicy.
• Add aromatics: To enhance the flavor, you can add other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or peppercorns, to the poaching liquid.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken Recipe

• Lemon and herb: Add slices of lemon and fresh rosemary to the poaching liquid for a citrusy twist.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a fresh chili pepper to the poaching liquid for a little heat.
• Asian-inspired: For an Asian twist, poach the chicken in a mix of water and soy sauce with ginger, garlic, and spring onions.
• Use bone-in chicken: You can poach bone-in chicken for added flavor. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s cooked through.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken Recipe

• Refrigeration: Store leftover poached chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Poached chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge before using.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little of the poaching liquid or broth to keep the chicken moist.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs

How do I keep the poached chicken from becoming dry?

To keep poached chicken from becoming dry, make sure the water or broth is kept at a gentle simmer, not a boil. Also, let the chicken rest in the poaching liquid for 5-10 minutes after cooking to retain moisture.

Can I use frozen chicken for poaching?

Yes, you can poach frozen chicken. However, the cooking time will need to be increased by about 5-10 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safety.

What should I do with the leftover poaching liquid?

The leftover poaching liquid can be strained and used as a light broth for soups, and risotto, or to cook rice for added flavor. It’s a great way to avoid waste and make another meal.

Can I poach chicken with the skin on?

Yes, you can poach chicken with the skin on. The skin will add extra flavor to the broth and keep the chicken moist, but it won’t crisp up like roasted or fried chicken.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Poached Chicken is a healthy and versatile recipe that’s perfect for meal prepping or creating simple, nourishing meals. Whether you’re adding it to salads, sandwiches, or enjoying it on its own with a side of vegetables, poached chicken is an easy go-to dish that delivers on flavor and tenderness.

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