Low-Temperature Poached Chicken with Lemon and Thyme

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-26 · Updated 2026-04-26

Delicately poached chicken breasts infused with fresh lemon and thyme, resulting in juicy, tender meat perfect for salads or light dinners. This French-inspired low-carb recipe (low fat), ready in about 35 minutes, pairs boneless skinless chicken breasts, water, lemon slices for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a low-carb week and pairs well with cauliflower rice or roasted green vegetables. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 (6 oz each) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups water
• 4 thin slices lemon slices
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2, crushed garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped, for garnish fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large wide saucepan, combine 4 cups water, 4 thin lemon slices, 4 fresh thyme sprigs, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Reduce heat to low so the liquid is just below simmering (around 180°F). Add 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts and cover the pan.
3. Step 3: Poach the chicken gently for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the meat is opaque.
4. Step 4: Remove chicken breasts and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
5. Step 5: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve warm or chilled.