Place chicken breasts in a pot in a single layer
Add enough water to cover the chicken by 1 to 2 inches
Add salt if desired
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat
Reduce the heat to low and keep the water at a gentle simmer
Cover the pot
Cook boneless chicken breasts for 12 to 15 minutes
Cook bone-in chicken breasts for 20 to 30 minutes
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F
Remove the chicken from the pot
Let it rest for 5 minutes
Slice or shred as needed