We eat a LOT of chicken around here. Some weeks I’m surprised that we don’t sprout feathers and start clucking. That’s because chicken is a staple in many delicious meals. However, it can quickly become boring if you don’t change up your recipes and vary how you cook it. Let’s look at some of the different ways you can cook chicken breast. From stir-frying to grilling, you’ll end up with delicious meals that you’ll want to try.
Check out my favorite chicken recipes!
Tips Before Cooking
Before you start experimenting with different methods of cooking chicken breasts, you need to know how to handle your chicken. Salmonella infections are transmitted through contaminated foods, especially those of animal origins. So make sure you wash your hands, avoid cross contamination with other foods, thoroughly clean your work surfaces, and cook your chicken to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping yourself and your food germ free will prevent the spread of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses.
Grilling and Barbecuing
A delicious way to prepare tasty chicken is to grill and barbecue it. If you want a chargrilled, barbecued, or smoky flavor, using a grill will help you achieve that flavorful finish. It’s an excellent option if you’re having a backyard party.
Baking and Roasting
Roasting and baking are among the tastiest, most satisfying ways you can prepare chicken. They don’t just produce incredibly delicious results—they’re also easy. I like to keep the skin on the chicken when using this method. To add texture and accentuated flavor, you can coat your chicken breast in different marinades or toppings before baking or roasting it. It’s the perfect choice if you’re short on time and you don’t want to spend your entire evening in the kitchen. Try Honey Harissa Sheet Pan Chicken & Vegetables the next time you’re short on time.
Pan-Frying or Sautéing
Sautéing or pan-frying chicken gives it a deeper, fuller-bodied flavor. It’s a two-step procedure that requires a hot pan with a small amount of fat, finished either in the oven or simmering in a sauce. The flavor becomes more well-rounded and allows the chicken to cook thoroughly. A few of my favorites are one-pan Lemon Mushroom Chicken and Coq Au Riesling.
Stir-Frying
If you like stir-fried dishes overall, chicken breast will make the perfect protein for your next meal. Cut it into thin slices and stir-fry it in a wok over high heat until golden-brown. Additionally, cook in small batches to prevent temperature reduction. When you stir-fry it correctly, your chicken will have a delicious, natural, caramelly flavor.
Chicken doesn’t have to be a bland protein for your meals. Get creative and explore your palate. Before you know it, you’ll want chicken for every meal.
