The Secret to Juicy Chicken
Chicken is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly proteins out there. But, if not cooked properly, it can be dry and tough. The secret to juicy chicken lies in the preparation and cooking technique.
1. Brine the Chicken
One of the easiest ways to ensure that your chicken stays juicy is to brine it before cooking. A brine is a solution of salt, water, and sugar that helps to tenderize the chicken and keep it moist. To make a basic brine, dissolve 1/4 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of sugar in 4 cups of water. Add the chicken and let it soak for at least an hour.
2. Don't Overcook the Chicken
Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember that chicken will continue to cook for a few minutes after you take it off the heat, so take it off a few degrees early.
3. Let the Chicken Rest
After you remove the chicken from the heat, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and makes for a juicier chicken.
4. Flavor the Chicken
Another key to juicy chicken is adding flavor. Chicken can be bland on its own, so spice it up with your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the chicken with a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, and salt before cooking. Or marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
5. Cook the Chicken Properly
Finally, the cooking technique is important. Grill or roast the chicken on high heat for a short amount of time to sear the outside and keep the juices in. Or, cook it low and slow in the oven or slow cooker to lock in the moisture.
In conclusion, juicy chicken is all about the preparation and cooking technique. Brine the chicken, don't overcook it, let it rest, flavor it, and cook it properly. With these tips, you'll be serving up juicy, delicious chicken every time.