Chicken breast is one of the most popular and versatile proteins, used in several recipes. However, cooking chicken breast can be challenging, especially to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness. In this article, we will share with you how to cook juicy chicken breast every time.
Choose High-Quality Chicken Breast
Choosing high-quality chicken breast is crucial if you want to obtain a juicy and tender result. Look for organic or free-range chicken breasts that have not been injected with saline solution. Saline solution or brine makes the chicken breast heavier and gives it the appearance of plumpness, but it adds a lot of water, which means that it can become dry when cooked.
Tenderize the Chicken Breast
Tenderizing the chicken breast is essential to get a juicy and tender result. There are two main methods to tenderize the chicken breast: marinating or pounding.
For marinating, choose a mixture of acidic ingredients, such as lemon or lime juice, vinegar, or yogurt, and spices. Marinate the chicken breast for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day in the fridge.
Pounding chicken breast is another way to tenderize it. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breast to an even thickness. This method also helps reduce cooking time, which lowers the risk of overcooking the chicken.
Cook the Chicken Breast
The key to juicy chicken breast is to cook it correctly. The ideal temperature for cooked chicken breast is 165°F or 74°C. Overcooked chicken is often dry and tasteless. Here are some methods to cook chicken breast to perfection:
Baking
Baking chicken breast is easy and doesn’t require much effort. Preheat your oven to 450°F or 230°C. Pat dry the chicken breast, season it with spices, and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.
Grilling
Grilling chicken breast infuses it with a smoky flavor and is perfect for summertime barbecues. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breast with oil, season it with spices, and place it on the grill. Cook each side for 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.
Sautéing
Sautéing chicken breast is quick and easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and wait for it to get hot. Pat dry the chicken breast, season it with spices, and sauté it for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.
Let the Chicken Breast Rest
Once the chicken breast is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting chicken breast allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicier result.
Conclusion
Cooking juicy chicken breast requires choosing high-quality chicken, tenderizing it, cooking it to perfection, and letting it rest. These simple steps will ensure that you get the best results every time.
Table: Cooking Times for Chicken Breast
Cooking Method | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Baking | 165°F | 15-20 minutes |
Grilling | 165°F | 6-8 minutes per side |
Sautéing | 165°F | 5-7 minutes per side |
FAQ
How do I know if the chicken breast is cooked?
The internal temperature of cooked chicken breast should reach 165°F or 74°C. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Why is my chicken breast dry?
Chicken breast can become dry if it is overcooked or if it is not of high quality. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions and choose a free-range or organic chicken breast.
Do I need to marinate the chicken breast?
Marinating the chicken breast is not essential, but it helps tenderize the meat and adds flavors. You can skip the marination step or use a dry rub instead.