Place chicken breasts in a single layer in a saucepan or skillet
Add enough cold water or broth to cover the chicken by about 1 inch
Add salt and optional aromatics like peppercorns, garlic, onion, or bay leaf
Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium heat
Reduce heat to low to keep the liquid barely simmering
Cover partially with a lid
Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part
Remove the chicken from the liquid
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding