Look no further if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook chicken legs. This simple guide will show you how to boil chicken legs in minutes. Plus, this cooking method is great for making ahead meals or packing them for on-the-go lunches. So grab some chicken legs and get cooking!
Maybe you want to cook chicken legs because you need a quick and easy meal.
Or maybe you want to cook them ahead of time, so you have something to eat later.
No matter your reason, this guide will show you how to do it quickly and easily.
The main challenge people face when trying to boil chicken legs is not knowing how long to cook them.
Depending on the size of the chicken legs, it can take 15-20 minutes to cook them thoroughly.
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Another challenge is ensuring the chicken is cooked through so it doesn’t end up dry or tough.
Following this guide will help you avoid those problems.
How to safely handle raw chicken
When handling raw chicken, it’s essential to avoid contamination.
Here are a few tips for handling raw chicken safely:
- First thing, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling chicken.
- Don’t let the raw chicken come into contact with other foods, especially those that will be eaten raw.
- Also, use separate cutting boards and knives for raw chicken and other foods.
- Wash cutting boards, knives, and other utensils that come into contact with raw chicken in hot soapy water.
- Don’t taste chicken that is raw or only partially cooked.
- Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Following these simple tips can help keep yourself and your family safe from foodborne illness.
How to boil chicken legs
What you’ll need:
- Chicken legs (1-2 per person)
- Water
- Salt
Directions:
Follow these steps for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
1. Place the chicken pieces in a pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add enough water or broth until the chicken legs are completely covered.
3. Add any seasonings or vegetables you like.
4. Bring the pot to a boil over and reduce to medium heat.
5. Leave medium heat for 15-20 minutes until the chicken cooks.
6. Finally, use a pair of tongs to remove them from the pot, and enjoy!
There you have it! Now you know how to boil chicken legs in just a few simple steps.
Next time you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to cook chicken, give it a try.
Here you can also read How to cook store bought smoked turkey legs.
Tips to boil chicken legs
- If you’re looking for extra flavor, try adding a few fresh herbs or spices to the water before boiling.
- Be sure to leave enough space in the pot so that the water can circulate freely.
- Make sure the water completely covers the chicken legs to ensure even cooking.
- To keep chicken legs from drying out, be sure not to overcook them.
Variations on boiled chicken legs
One variation on boiled chicken legs is to cook them in a broth or sauce.
This can add flavor and moisture to the chicken.
Another variation is to bake the chicken legs after boiling them.
This can give them a crispy skin.
Finally, you can use boiled chicken legs in recipes like chicken salads or casserole.
How to store leftovers boiled chicken
Leftover boiled chicken legs can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can also microwave the chicken on low power for 3-4 minutes.
Also, you can freeze leftover boiled chicken for up to four months.
To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Here you can read about How to freeze rotisserie chicken.
Recipes using boiled chicken legs
Chicken noodle soup: This classic soup is a great way to use leftover boiled chicken legs.
Add the chicken to your favorite recipe or a can of store-bought soup.
Chicken salad: Another great way to use leftover chicken is to make a chicken salad.
Chop up the chicken and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, grapes, and almonds.
Chicken pot pie: This comfort food is a perfect way to use up boiled chicken legs.
Add cooked chicken to your favorite pot pie recipe or store-bought crust.
Chicken tacos: Use leftover boiled chicken to make tasty tacos with your favorite sauce.
Shred the chicken and mix it with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
Chicken stir-fry: This is an easy weeknight meal.
Add the chicken to your favorite stir-fry recipe or even a store-bought stir-fry sauce.
Also, there are different ways to enjoy boiled chicken legs.
These are just a few ideas to get you started.
Be creative and experiment to find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile and delicious meal.
How to make frozen chicken nuggets in air fryer? Here you can read about this.
Side dishes you can use
There are many different side dishes that you can serve with boiled chicken legs.
Our favorites include mashed potatoes, rice, coleslaw, and cornbread.
You can also get creative and come up with your combinations.
No matter your side dishes, they’ll be delicious when served with boiled chicken legs.
So get creative and experiment to find your favorites.
Sauces and gravies
There are many different sauces and gravies that you can serve with boiled chicken legs.
Our favorites include barbecue sauce, honey mustard sauce, and gravy.
You can also get creative and come up with your combinations.
Be sure to have plenty of flavorful sauces and gravies to add variety.
FAQs about how to boil chicken legs
No, you don’t need to use a lid.
However, if you want to keep the chicken warm after it’s cooked, you can cover the pot with a lid.
Yes, you can add fresh vegetables to the pot.
Vegetables like carrots, bay leaf, celery, and potatoes are all good choices.
Just add them at the beginning, so they have time to cook.
Yes. If you have a large pot, you can boil an entire chicken.
The best way to reheat chicken legs is in the oven or microwave.
To reheat in the oven, place the chicken in a covered dish, and heat it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes.
Or, place chicken legs in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on low power for 2-3 minutes.
Yes, you can use frozen chicken legs.
Just be sure to thaw them first, so they cook evenly.
To thaw chicken, place it in the refrigerator overnight or in a bowl of cold water for about an hour.
Other ways to use boiled chicken legs include soup, salad, tacos, pot pie, and stir-fry.
Get creative and experiment new ways to enjoy this delicious and versatile dish.
How long can you keep cooked chicken? Here you can read more about this.
