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Poached Salmon in 7 Minutes (Paleo Method)

Salmon is great in so many things – recently I’ve been having a lot of salmon salads. I’ve tried lots of different ways of cooking it, but I think I’ve got the perfect poached salmon method – and best of all, it takes just 7 minutes on the stove. I find this method far more consistent than frying or baking, as it always turns out well. This poaching technique is quick and cooks the fish through, but it remains tender. I tend to make up more than I need, as it’s fine to keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for a quick lunch option.

I’m quite careful about the fish I get and avoid farmed fish. Look out for wild fish where you can.

paleo recipe 7 minute salmon poached perfect fish
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5 from 1 vote

Recipe: 7 Minute Salmon

Discover the perfect method to poach salmon in just 7 minutes. Quick, easy, and consistently tender, this recipe is perfect for a healthy paleo meal.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time7 minutes
Total Time12 minutes
Course: Fish, Seafood
Cuisine: Paleo
Keyword: 7 Minute Salmon, paleo salmon recipe, Poached Salmon, Quick Salmon Recipe
Servings: 4 Serves
Calories: 220kcal
Cost: $20

Equipment

  • Medium-sized pan
  • Tongs

Ingredients

  • 4 wild salmon fillets
  • 3 spring onions trimmed
  • 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
  • Squeeze of fresh lime
  • Sea salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pan: In a medium-sized pan just big enough to accommodate the fish, arrange the fillets so they don’t overlap, and cover with cold water until they are immersed.
  • Add Seasonings: Add the spring onions, peppercorns, lime, and a generous pinch of sea salt to the pan.
  • Bring to Boil: Bring the water to a boil. As soon as it starts to boil, turn the fillets over and remove the pan from the heat.
  • Poach the Salmon: Leave the pan to stand for 7 minutes. This gentle poaching method ensures the salmon remains tender and perfectly cooked.
  • Cool and Store: After 7 minutes, take the salmon out of the pan and leave to cool completely. Once the salmon is cool, it will be cooked to perfection. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why Poach Salmon?

Poaching is one of the gentlest cooking methods available and ideal for delicate proteins like fish. It involves simmering food in liquid at a low temperature, preserving both texture and moisture. For salmon, this means no overcooked, dry, or crumbly results – just juicy, tender fish every time.

Compared to baking or pan-frying, poaching is less hands-on and allows for more control. There’s no risk of the salmon sticking to the pan or drying out in the oven. Once you’ve tried this 7-minute method, you’ll see just how effortless and reliable poached salmon can be.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is considered one of the healthiest proteins you can include in your diet, particularly if it’s wild-caught. It’s an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for reducing inflammation, supporting brain health, and improving cardiovascular function.

It’s also rich in high-quality protein, B vitamins, selenium, and potassium. The inclusion of salmon in a Paleo lifestyle adds variety and a nutrient-dense option that pairs well with vegetables, salads, and Paleo-friendly dressings.

Choosing the Right Salmon

Where possible, always opt for wild-caught salmon rather than farmed. Farmed salmon can be lower in omega-3s and is more likely to be treated with antibiotics and artificial dyes. In Australia, look for sustainably sourced wild salmon from New Zealand or Alaska when available.

Fresh fillets are ideal, but you can also use thawed frozen salmon – just be sure to pat it dry before cooking. Choose skinless fillets if you want a consistent poaching result, though it works just as well with the skin on (you can remove the skin after cooking if preferred).

How to Poach Salmon Perfectly

The key to perfectly poached salmon lies in keeping the heat gentle. The liquid should never come to a rolling boil – a low simmer is enough to cook the fish through while preserving its tenderness.

Use a shallow pan that allows the fillets to sit in a single layer. You can poach with plain water, but adding aromatics such as lemon slices, bay leaves, garlic cloves, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley will elevate the flavour beautifully.

Make-Ahead Meals with Poached Salmon

One of the best parts of this recipe is that poached salmon stores beautifully in the fridge. After cooking, let the fillets cool to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container. They will keep fresh for up to three days, making them an ideal component for meal prep or fast lunches.

You can flake the salmon over salads, mix it into cauliflower rice dishes, or combine with avocado and lime for a Paleo-friendly salmon smash. It also works well in wraps using lettuce leaves or collard greens as a base.

Ideas for Using Leftover Poached Salmon

  • Salmon salad bowls: Combine with mixed greens, cucumber, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
  • Breakfast option: Flake into scrambled eggs with chives or dill for a protein-packed start.
  • Stuffed sweet potatoes: Mix with mashed sweet potato and herbs for a warm, comforting meal.
  • Cold platter: Serve with olives, boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and pickles for a quick grazing plate.

Customise the Flavours

This poached salmon recipe is simple, but it’s easy to customise depending on your taste preferences. Try these flavour variations:

  • Lemon & dill: Add fresh lemon slices and dill fronds to the poaching liquid for a bright, aromatic twist.
  • Asian-inspired: Add slices of ginger, a splash of coconut aminos, and spring onions to the water.
  • Garlic & bay: Add two smashed garlic cloves and a bay leaf for a more savoury profile.
  • Spicy version: Add a slice of red chili or a dash of your favourite chili seasoning for a gentle kick.

Serving Suggestions

This poached salmon works beautifully with a range of Paleo-friendly sides. Some of my favourites include:

  • Carrot and citrus salad
  • Grilled asparagus or zucchini ribbons
  • Mashed cauliflower with olive oil and garlic
  • Fresh mixed greens with a homemade dressing

The mild flavour of poached salmon means it pairs well with both fresh, zingy salads and richer, creamy vegetable dishes. You can serve it warm or chilled depending on the weather and occasion.

Paleo Pantry Essentials for Fish Dishes

Keeping a few pantry staples on hand can make it even easier to prepare fish dishes like this one on the fly. Some of the ingredients that pair beautifully with salmon include:

  • Coconut aminos
  • Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • Dried dill or parsley
  • Chili flakes or homemade chili seasoning
  • Good quality olive oil for finishing

Having these basics ready allows you to whip up a balanced Paleo-friendly meal in minutes, especially if you’ve got poached salmon prepped and waiting in the fridge.

This Recipe is a Time-Saving Winner

This 7-minute poached salmon recipe is a game-changer for quick and easy meals. Additionally, the gentle poaching method ensures tender, flavourful salmon every time. It’s perfect for salads or to enjoy on its own.

If you're busy or don’t want to turn the oven on during the summer months, this is the ideal technique. It's ready faster than takeaway, with far more nutritional benefits and none of the questionable ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to poach salmon perfectly will open up a whole new set of easy and nutritious meal options in your Paleo repertoire. Once you realise how simple and foolproof it is, you’ll likely find yourself returning to this method again and again. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, prepping meals for the week, or trying to eat more anti-inflammatory foods, this recipe delivers on every front.

How do you cook salmon (and other fish)? I’d love to hear your tips in the comments below.

paleo recipe 7 minute salmon poached perfect fish

Fail-Proof Poached Chicken (Paleo)

I don’t know about you, but I find chicken cooked in the oven can be a bit dry and fried chicken can be a little greasy (not to mention make an complete mess of the kitchen), so lately I've been poaching chicken instead. This Fail-Proof Poached Chicken is my favourite way to cook chicken that I'm going to be shredding, or adding to a recipe that calls for pre-cooked chicken.

fail-proof poached chicken paleo recipe shredded poultry lunch dinner
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5 from 2 votes

Recipe: fail-proof poached chicken

This fail-proof poached chicken recipe ensures tender and juicy chicken every time. Perfect for shredding and adding to a variety of dishes.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Paleo
Keyword: Fail-Proof Poached Chicken, Paleo chicken recipe, Poached Chicken, Tender Chicken
Servings: 4 Serves
Calories: 120kcal
Cost: $15

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

  • Chicken as much as your recipe calls for
  • A splash of white wine
  • Water
  • A couple of bay leaves
  • A small piece of fresh ginger
  • A few black peppercorns
  • Sea salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken into roughly equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Arrange in Pot: Arrange the chicken at the bottom of a large pot, ensuring the pieces do not overlap.
  • Add Liquids: Pour the splash of white wine over the chicken first, then add cold water until the chicken is completely submerged by about 5cm of water.
  • Season: Add the bay leaves, fresh ginger, peppercorns, and sea salt to the pot.
  • Bring to Boil: Bring the water to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Simmer and Skim: Simmer the chicken for a few minutes. If you plan to use the poaching liquid, skim off any scum that rises to the top.
  • Check Doneness: Simmer the chicken until thoroughly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Alternatively, test the largest piece to ensure it’s cooked through and the juices run clear.
  • Drain and Use: Once cooked, drain the chicken pieces and shred them or use them as they are in your recipes.

Why Poaching Chicken Is the Ultimate Paleo Cooking Hack

Poaching chicken might not sound glamorous, but it is one of the most effective and practical ways to prepare tender, juicy meat without added fat or fuss. For anyone following a Paleo diet, this cooking method ticks all the boxes – it’s clean, healthy, quick, and perfect for meal prepping in batches.

Unlike roasting or frying, poaching gently simmers the chicken in liquid, keeping it moist and preserving the delicate flavour. There’s no oil splatter, no dry texture, and no complicated equipment needed. Just a pot, some water or broth, and a few aromatics.

Perfect for Shredding and Meal Prep

This method of poaching chicken ensures you get tender, juicy chicken every time, without the dryness of oven-baked chicken or the greasiness of fried chicken. It’s ideal for dishes that require shredded or chopped cooked chicken, such as:

Once poached and cooled, the chicken can be shredded with two forks or chopped finely, depending on your recipe. You can also store it in portions, ready to use throughout the week.

The Best Liquid for Poaching Chicken

While plain water works perfectly well, adding flavour to your poaching liquid makes a big difference. If you’re using the chicken in a particular cuisine, you can tailor the aromatics to match. Here are some suggestions:

  • Classic: Water with sea salt, bay leaf, and cracked black pepper
  • Herbed: Add garlic cloves, thyme, parsley, or rosemary to the pot
  • Asian-inspired: Use ginger slices, spring onions, and a dash of coconut aminos
  • Broth-based: Use bone broth or chicken stock instead of water for a richer result

The poaching liquid can also be strained and used as a light broth base for soups or to cook rice alternatives like cauliflower rice.

How Long to Poach Chicken

Timing is everything with poaching. Overcooked chicken becomes rubbery, while undercooked chicken is unsafe. With this method, boneless chicken breasts typically take around 12–14 minutes to cook through, depending on their size. Bone-in chicken will take longer – closer to 25–30 minutes.

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the breast should reach 75°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the middle – the meat should be opaque and the juices should run clear.

Fail-Proof Poaching Method

The trick to poaching chicken successfully is to avoid boiling it rapidly. A gentle simmer is all you need. Here's a quick rundown of the steps:

  1. Place chicken in a single layer in the bottom of a saucepan.
  2. Add enough water or broth to cover the chicken by about 2–3 cm.
  3. Add aromatics or herbs if desired.
  4. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  5. Once simmering, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
  6. Cook for 12–14 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
  7. Remove from the liquid and allow to rest for 5 minutes before shredding.

Tips to Get It Just Right

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your poached chicken turns out perfectly every time:

  • Don’t overcrowd the pot. Keep the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  • Use cold liquid to start. Placing chicken in already-boiling water can cause it to seize and toughen.
  • Let it rest before cutting. This keeps the juices in the meat rather than spilling out on your board.

Batch Cooking for the Week

One of the best things about this method is how easy it is to batch cook. Poach several chicken breasts at once, shred or chop them, and divide into containers. They’ll last for up to 4 days in the fridge or can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months.

Freezing pre-cooked chicken is a game-changer for busy weeks. Just defrost overnight in the fridge or gently reheat in a pan with a splash of broth for added moisture.

Ideas for Using Poached Chicken

Poached chicken is incredibly versatile and can be added to almost anything. Here are some Paleo-friendly ideas for inspiration:

  • Quick chicken salad: Toss with avocado, cucumber, and olive oil
  • Stuffed capsicums: Mix with chopped vegetables and herbs, then bake in halved peppers
  • Breakfast hash: Add to a sweet potato and kale skillet
  • Soup base: Stir into a clear vegetable broth with courgette noodles
  • Lettuce wraps: Fill with chicken, grated carrot, coriander, and a squeeze of lime

How to Store and Reuse the Poaching Liquid

The leftover poaching liquid is too good to waste. If you used herbs or aromatics, strain the liquid and store it in a jar in the fridge. It can be used within a few days as a base for soup, to sauté vegetables, or to cook grains if you include them in your diet.

You can also freeze the strained broth in ice cube trays for smaller portions that are perfect for deglazing pans or adding quick flavour to meals.

Perfect for Beginners and Time-Poor Cooks

This poaching method is especially helpful for those who are new to cooking or looking for a foolproof way to prepare meals without hassle. There’s no guesswork, and no fancy equipment needed – just a pan and a few pantry staples.

It’s also a great way to prep protein for kids’ lunches, busy weeknight dinners, or packed lunches that need to be thrown together in minutes.

Final Thoughts

This poached chicken method is the kind of basic kitchen skill that ends up being surprisingly life-changing. You’ll wonder how you ever got by without it. It’s simple, healthy, and endlessly useful in Paleo cooking.

Have you tried poaching chicken before? Additionally, share your favourite poaching tips and recipes in the comments below!

fail-proof poached chicken paleo recipe shredded poultry lunch dinner