How to Cook Chicken Pieces in a Pan: A Deliciously Easy Guide

Cooking chicken pieces in a pan is one of the easiest and quickest ways to prepare this versatile meat. With a few simple steps, you can have juicy and flavorful chicken pieces on your table in just a matter of minutes. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about cooking chicken pieces in a pan.

Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken

The first step to cooking chicken pieces in a pan is choosing the right cut of chicken. While you can use any cut of chicken, some cuts are better suited for pan-frying than others. Generally, boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts are the easiest cuts to work with. They cook quickly and evenly, and they’re less likely to dry out than other cuts.

If you’re using bone-in chicken pieces, make sure they’re cut into smaller pieces to ensure they cook through evenly. You can also use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, chicken drumsticks will take longer to cook than boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Prepping the Chicken

Once you’ve chosen your chicken pieces, it’s time to prep them for cooking. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This will help ensure that the chicken browns evenly in the pan. You can also season the chicken at this stage with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other seasonings you like.

If you’re using bone-in chicken, you may want to score the meat with a knife to help it cook more evenly. This will also help the seasoning permeate the meat.

Cooking the Chicken Pieces in a Pan

Now it’s time to cook the chicken pieces in a pan. To do this, you’ll need to heat a tablespoon or two of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook on one side for 5-6 minutes or until browned.

Flip the chicken pieces over and cook on the other side for an additional 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when the chicken is fully cooked.

If you’re using bone-in chicken, you may need to cover the pan and cook the chicken for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s cooked through all the way. You can also add a few tablespoons of liquid to the pan, such as chicken broth or white wine, to help create a pan sauce.

Serving the Chicken Pieces

Once the chicken pieces are cooked through, it’s time to serve them. You can serve the chicken as is, or you can use it as a base for a variety of dishes. Shred the chicken and use it in tacos, sandwiches, or salads. Cut it into strips and serve it with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or ranch.

Tips for Perfect Pan-Fried Chicken Pieces Every Time

To ensure your chicken pieces turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

– Use a heavy-bottomed skillet that heats evenly. Cast iron or stainless steel pans are ideal for this.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have too many chicken pieces in the pan at once, they won’t cook evenly.
– Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and will ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when the chicken is fully cooked.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken pieces?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken pieces, but they’ll take longer to cook. Make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I marinate the chicken before pan-frying?
A: Yes, marinating the chicken before cooking can add extra flavor. Just make sure to pat the chicken dry before cooking to ensure it browns properly in the pan.

Q: Do I have to use oil to cook the chicken pieces?
A: Yes, using oil is necessary to cook the chicken pieces properly. The oil helps the chicken brown and keeps it from sticking to the pan. You can use any type of oil you prefer, such as vegetable oil, olive oil, or coconut oil.

Q: How long should I let the chicken rest before serving?
A: Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving will allow the juices to redistribute and will ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender.

Q: Can I use a nonstick pan to cook the chicken pieces?
A: Yes, you can use a nonstick pan, but keep in mind that the chicken may not brown as well as it would in a cast iron or stainless steel pan. Make sure to use a nonstick pan with a heavy bottom to ensure even heating.