 Use a sharp knife to cut the "X" shape into the chestnuts. This will make them boil more easily. Boiling chestnuts won't make them quite as tasty or aromatic, but it's a great way to quickly soften them.  Wait at least 2-3 minutes until the chestnuts are cool enough for you to handle them.  Enjoy these chestnuts plain or with 1/2 a teaspoon of cinnamon and one tablespoon of melted butter.
Boil a pot of water. Cut an X into one side of two cups of chestnuts. Boil the chestnuts for 5-10 minutes. Let the chestnuts cool. Peel the shells and the skins off the nuts. Serve.