How to Cook Chicken Breast: A Beginner’s Guide
Cooking chicken breast is a staple in many households, but it can be daunting if you’ve never done it before. However, with the right techniques and some helpful tips, you can create a delicious chicken breast that is both juicy and flavorful every time. In this article, we will go over everything you need to know about cooking chicken breast, from preparation to serving.
- Choosing the Right Chicken
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to choose the right chicken breast. Look for chicken breasts that are uniform in size and thickness, as this will ensure that they cook evenly. Also, try to buy organic chicken whenever possible to avoid added hormones and antibiotics. - Preparing the Chicken Breast
To prepare your chicken, you need to remove any excess fat and trim the edges. If the chicken breast is uneven in thickness, you can pound it with a meat mallet to create an even surface or butterfly cut it to get a good even piece. This will help the chicken breast cook evenly and prevent it from drying out. - Seasoning the Chicken Breast
To add flavor to your chicken breast, you can season it with your favorite spices and herbs. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme, but i always prefer going with a smokey, sweet and salty spice mixture like a BBQ one. Rub the seasoning of your choice onto the chicken breast, making sure to cover it evenly. - Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook chicken breast, including grilling, baking, sautéing, and poaching. Each method has its pros and cons, so the one you choose will depend on your personal preferences and/or the equipment you have available.
Grilling
Grilling is a popular way to cook chicken breast, especially during the summer months. To grill chicken breast, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the chicken breast on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tip: When grilling, keeping the skin on always serves a more flavorful final product
Baking
Baking chicken breast is a simple and straightforward method. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the chicken breast on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Sautéing
Sautéing chicken breast is a quick and easy method that works well for busy weeknights. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken breast. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tip: Don’t forget to baste every couple of minutes
Poaching
Poaching is a gentle cooking method that results in a moist and tender chicken breast. To poach chicken breast, place it in a pot of simmering water and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Checking the Internal Temperature
No matter which cooking method you choose, it’s essential to check the internal temperature of the chicken breast to ensure that it is safe to eat. The USDA recommends cooking chicken breast to an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C. - Resting the Chicken Breast
After you remove the chicken breast from the heat, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken breast.
Tip: Resting your meat should be a routine you always follow, just like we said in our beef article - Serving Suggestions
Once your chicken breast is cooked and rested, you can serve it in a variety of ways. Slice it and serve it on a salad, add it to a sandwich, or serve it as the main course with your favorite sides.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken breast doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right techniques and some helpful tips, you can cook a delicious chicken breast that is juicy and flavorful every time. Remember to choose the
