How do I know if chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is considered cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. The safest way to know for sure if chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. If the temperature is at or above 165°F, it’s cooked!

What is the best way to thaw frozen chicken?

To thaw frozen chicken safely, place it in the refrigerator. Depending on the size of the chicken, this could take several hours to a day to completely thaw. If you need to thaw the chicken quicker, you can place it in cold water. Be sure to change the water out every 30 minutes until the chicken is completely thawed.

Can I cook chicken straight from frozen?

Yes, for some recipes you’ll be able to cook chicken that’s frozen. However, it will take longer than the usual cooking time. You will likely also notice a different texture and/or taste than fresh chicken has. If you cook chicken that’s frozen, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F and is safe to consume.

How long can I store cooked chicken in the refrigerator?

When refrigerated in an airtight container, chicken can be stored for 3 to 4 days.

How long should I wait to serve chicken after its cooked?

You should wait 3 to 5 minutes after cooking chicken before serving it. This resting time will allow the juices to be distributed throughout the chicken which will result in a more juicy and flavorful meal.

Should I brine my chicken?

It is generally a good idea to brine your chicken when you have time. The process of brining is simply to soak the chicken in a saltwater solution. This allows the chicken to retain its moisture and flavor during the cooking process. You can brine the chicken for anywhere between 30 minutes to a few hours with a simple combination of water, salt and sugar.

How much chicken is too much chicken for a pan?

The answer is: it varies depending on how large your pan is. The general rule of thumb is to allow enough room so that liquids and heat can flow between all sides of the chicken. This will help to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. If the chicken is touching or overlapping, you should cook the chicken in smaller batches.

Are chicken breasts the best kind of chicken to cook?

There seems to be a lot of discussion about what chicken is the best to cook. My suggestion is to try a variety of cuts. Breasts, thighs, wings and drumsticks all have different textures and flavor profiles. Experimenting with these different cuts will add variety to your meals as the chicken in many recipes is interchangeable with a different cut.