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23 January 2025

How to Cook Chicken Breast: 5 Different Ways

Due to their adaptability, nutritional content, and ease of preparation, chicken breasts are a favourite among both professional chefs and home cooks. Boneless chicken breast is a go-to for quick and versatile meals. They are quite lean and easy to handle. They are a great option for dishes that call for strong tastes. They absorb marinades well and are perfect for stir-fries, sandwiches, and grilling. Wondering how to cook chicken breasts? With a few techniques and recipes from Chef Manu Feildel, you can make chicken breasts flavourful, juicy, and perfectly cooked. This guide focuses on different cooking techniques from the chef that will enhance your chicken breast game.

How to Cook Chicken Breast

Now that you know about chicken breasts, let’s explore five ways to cook them. These methods cater to different tastes and occasions, ensuring you’ll always have a go-to recipe for any meal.

1. How to Broil Chicken Breast

Broiling is a fast and effective way to cook chicken breasts with a slightly charred, caramelised finish.

  • Preparation: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches below the heating element.
  • Seasoning: Brush the chicken with olive oil. Then, season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. You may use paprika or cayenne for a smoky kick.
  • Cooking: Arrange the breasts on a baking sheet covered with foil and broil them for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, flipping them once. Make sure the temperature inside reaches 165°F (74°C) by using a meat thermometer.

Tip: Add some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to enhance the taste.

2. How to Bake Chicken Breast

Baking is a common method for evenly cooked, juicy chicken.

  • Preparation: Get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly or line it with parchment paper.
  • Seasoning: Coat the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, and smoked paprika. Add some chicken broth or water to the baking dish to maintain moisture.
  • Cooking: Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer. Let the chicken rest properly for 5 minutes before slicing.

Tip: Before baking, marinate the chicken for at least an hour in a combination of yoghurt, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavour.

3. How to Poach Chicken Breast

Poaching is ideal for meal preparation, salads, and sandwiches. It preserves the chicken's tenderness and moisture.

  • Preparation: Fill a pot with water or chicken broth and add aromatics like bay leaves, onion slices, and peppercorns.
  • Cooking: Put the chicken in the liquid and heat it until it simmers gently. Steer clear of boiling since it might make the meat tough.
  • Timing: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), 15 to 20 minutes.

Tip: The poaching liquid has a lot of flavour; save it for soups or sauces.

4. How to Grill Chicken Breast

Grilling adds a smoky, charred flavour that’s hard to resist.

  • Preparation: Oil the grates to keep them from sticking and preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • Seasoning: For at least 30 minutes, marinate the chicken. Do it in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
  • Cooking: Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping only once. Check the proper temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

5. How to Fry Chicken Breast

Frying produces a juicy inside and a crispy, golden exterior, which appeals to everyone.

  • Preparation: Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Coating: Coat the chicken with breadcrumbs or seasoned flour. Before dredging, dip the chicken in egg wash or buttermilk for an even crispier coating.
  • Cooking: Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side or until cooked through and golden brown. Use paper towels to drain.

Tip: For a healthier option, use an air fryer to achieve a similar texture with less oil.

FAQs

What is the best seasoning for chicken breast?

The best seasoning depends on the recipe and your taste preferences. For most recipes, a basic seasoning of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works great. Try using Italian spice or lemon pepper for a tangy edge. Experiment using curry powders or Cajun spices if you want strong tastes.

How to cook chicken breast without drying out?

To prevent dryness:

  • Brine or Marinate: A simple saltwater brine or marinade adds moisture and flavour.
  • Cook at the Right Temperature: Overcooking is the main culprit for dry chicken. Use a proper meat thermometer to check if it's cooked.
  • Let It Rest: To disperse the liquids, let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking.

What is the best way to cook a chicken breast?

The ‘best’ method varies depending on your preference:

  • For quick cooking: Broiling or grilling.
  • For maximum juiciness: Poaching.
  • For crispy texture: Frying.
  • For a hands-off approach: Baking.

How long to cook a breast of chicken?

The cooking time for chicken breast varies by method and thickness:

  • Broiling: 6-8 minutes per side.
  • Baking: 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
  • Grilling: 5-7 minutes per side.
  • Poaching: 15-20 minutes in simmering liquid.
  • Frying: 3-4 minutes per side in hot oil.

Always use a proper thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Adjust times for larger or smaller pieces.

Get Dice or Minced Chicken Breasts from Inghams

The process of cooking chicken breasts doesn't have to be intimidating. You can consistently make juicy, tasty, and flawless chicken by using the right technique and a few basic tips. These methods will improve your culinary abilities, whether you're baking for meal preparation, frying for a weekend treat, or broiling for a fast supper.

If you're looking for convenient options to prepare delicious meals with chicken breasts, Ingham's diced chicken breast and minced chicken breast are perfect choices. So, grab your favourite seasonings and start experimenting with these five methods to create delicious chicken dishes for any occasion.

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