Your chicken floats when boiling because the density of the chicken becomes less than water and chicken that floats when boiling can be a sign that the chicken is done cooking.
In some cases floating chicken can also happen even when the chicken is not fully cooked.
Even when floating the chicken will still cook but just be sure to turn it often in the water or you could use a colander to weight it down and hold it in the water.
The length of time you boil chicken for depends on the chicken and the size of chicken.
Most chicken takes around 20 to 30 minutes to boil and be fully cooked.
For example chicken that is bone in, skin on chicken breasts should be boiled for around 30 minutes or if frozen boil for around 45 minutes.
For chicken such as skinless, boneless chicken breast they should be boiled for around 12 minutes to 15 minutes or if frozen boil for around 18 minutes to 22 minutes.
As a general rule of thumb, boil a whole chicken for 90 minutes and boil chicken breasts for 15 minutes, or until no longer pink.
Just place the chicken in a pot, cover it with water, and cook until it's done.
If the chicken floats to the top of the water, it's often a sign that it's cooked, but always double-check the temperature.
Resting chicken after cooking is an essential step to ensure juicy and flavorful meat.
After reaching the recommended internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it is crucial to let smaller cuts of chicken (chicken breast, wings, and tenderloin) rest for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting into it.
No matter the cooking method or cut, chicken should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
When checking the temperature, be sure to insert a probe thermometer into the thickest area of the chicken piece.
Heat the water and when it starts to boil add the chicken.
Slightly reduce the flame so that water is not boiling vigorously and let it be for at least 10-12 minutes.
Remove a small piece of the chicken to check when cooked.
Don't cook it 100% as carry over heat will overcook chicken and render it dry.