How to Keep Chicken Tender: Tips and Tricks

Understanding why chickens become tough

To keep chicken tender, it’s important to understand why it becomes tough in the first place. Chicken is made up of proteins that can become tough and dry if they are not cooked properly or if the chicken is old or not handled properly.

One of the main causes of chicken becoming tough is overcooking. When chicken is cooked for too long, the proteins in the meat become denatured and squeeze out moisture. This can result in a dry, tough and chewy texture. To avoid overcooking, it’s important to use a meat thermometer and cook chicken to the correct temperature for the cut and cooking method.

Another reason chicken can become tough is if it is not prepared properly before cooking. For example, if the chicken is not marinated or brined, it can become dry and tough during cooking. Marinating or brining the chicken before cooking can help keep it moist and tender.

The age of the chicken can also affect its tenderness. Older chickens have tougher meat and need more cooking time to become tender. When buying chicken, look for meat that is pink and firm, with no discolouration or off odour. Fresh chicken will always be more tender than older chicken.

By understanding the reasons why chicken becomes tough, you can take steps to ensure that your chicken stays tender and juicy during cooking. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can enjoy delicious, juicy chicken every time.

Preparing chicken for cooking

Preparing chicken properly before cooking can help ensure that it stays tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. Here are some tips on how to prepare chicken:

1. Remove excess fat: Remove any excess fat from the chicken as this can make the meat tough and chewy. Leave a small amount of fat on the meat to keep it moist during cooking.

2. Brine or marinate the chicken: Brining or marinating chicken before cooking can help keep it moist and tender. A simple brine of salt and water can work wonders, or try a flavourful marinade with herbs, spices and an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar.

3. Use a meat tenderiser: For tougher cuts of chicken, use a meat tenderiser to help break down the proteins and make the meat more tender. Be careful not to overdo it as this can result in mushy meat.

4. Allow the chicken to come to room temperature: Take the chicken out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking. This will help to cook it more evenly and keep it tender.

5. Pat the chicken dry: Pat the chicken dry with kitchen paper before cooking. This will remove any excess moisture and help the chicken to brown more evenly.

Taking the time to properly prepare chicken before cooking can help ensure that it stays tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. Experiment with different techniques and flavours to find the cooking method that works best for you.

Choosing the right cooking method

Choosing the right cooking method is another key factor in keeping chicken tender. Here are some cooking methods to consider:

1. Roasting: Roasting is a good option for cooking whole chickens or chicken pieces. Roasting at a low temperature for a long time can help keep the meat tender and juicy.

2. Grilling: Grilling is another popular way to cook chicken, but it can be tricky to keep it tender. To grill chicken, use a medium heat and grill for a shorter time, turning the chicken only once.

3. Braise: Braising involves cooking chicken in a liquid, such as stock or wine, over a low heat for a long time. This method can help keep the chicken moist and tender.

4. Sautéing: Browning chicken in a pan with a small amount of oil is a quick and easy way to cook chicken. Make sure you cook the chicken over a medium heat and do not overcook it.

5. Poaching: Poaching chicken involves cooking it in a simmering liquid until it is cooked through. This method can help keep the chicken moist and tender.

Choosing the right cooking method for your chicken will help ensure that it stays tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. Experiment with different methods to find the one that best suits your taste and cooking style.

Cooking chicken to the right temperature

Cooking chicken to the right temperature is essential to keep it tender and juicy. Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat, while overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Here are some guidelines for cooking chicken to the right temperature:

1. Use a meat thermometer: The only way to know if the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, taking care not to touch the bone.

2. Check the temperature: Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Check the temperature in several places to make sure the chicken is fully cooked.

3. Allow the chicken to rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

4. Adjust cooking times: Different cuts of chicken require different cooking times, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. For example, boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook faster than bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.

Cooking chicken to the right temperature will ensure that it stays tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and adjust the cooking time if necessary. With practice, you’ll cook perfect chicken every time.

Resting and serving chickens properly

Resting and serving chicken properly is just as important as cooking it to the right temperature to keep it tender. Here are some tips on how to rest and serve chicken:

1. Leave the chicken to rest: After cooking, leave the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

2. Slice the chicken properly: When slicing chicken, it is important to slice against the grain to keep it tender. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines of the muscle fibres.

3. Serve immediately: Serve the chicken immediately after slicing to keep it as tender and juicy as possible. If you need to hold the chicken for a short time before serving, cover it with foil to keep it warm and moist.

4. Store leftovers properly: If you have leftover cooked chicken, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, cook on a low heat and add a little liquid, such as stock or water, to keep the chicken moist.

By resting and serving chicken properly, you can help ensure that it stays tender and juicy. For the best results, take the time to cut the chicken properly and serve it immediately after cooking. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy delicious, succulent chicken every time.

Tips and tricks for keeping chicken tender

1. Use a brine or marinade: Brining or marinating chicken can help keep it moist and tender during cooking. A simple brine of salt and water can work wonders, or try a flavourful marinade with herbs, spices and an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar.

2. Use a slow cooker: Slow-cooking chicken can help keep it moist and tender. This method is particularly good for tougher cuts of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks. Cook on a low heat for several hours until the chicken is cooked through.

3. Use a meat tenderiser: For tougher cuts of chicken, use a meat tenderiser to help break down the proteins and tenderise the meat. Be careful not to overdo it as this can result in mushy meat.

4. Choose the right cut: Different cuts of chicken have different levels of tenderness. For example, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, but can become dry and tough if overcooked. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are more forgiving and can take longer to cook.

5. Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking chicken on the stovetop, do not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of brown, resulting in a tough and dry texture.

Incorporating these tips and tricks into your cooking routine will help ensure that your chicken stays tender and juicy. Experiment with different methods and techniques to find the ones that work best for you.

FAQs

What is the best way to cook chicken to keep it tender?

The best way to cook chicken to keep it tender is to use a low and slow cooking method, such as roasting or braising. This allows the chicken to cook through without becoming dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the appropriate temperature.

How can I tell if chicken is cooked to the right temperature?

You can tell if chicken is cooked to the right temperature by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to touch the bone. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.

Can marinating chicken help keep it tender?

Yes, marinating chicken can help to keep it moist and tender during cooking. A simple brine of salt and water can work wonders, or try a flavorful marinade with herbs, spices, and acid like lemon juice or vinegar.

What is the best way to store leftover cooked chicken?

The best way to store leftover cooked chicken is in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, use a low heat and add a little liquid, such as broth or water, to help keep the chicken moist.

Can using a meat tenderizer help to keep chicken tender?

Yes, using a meat tenderizer can help to break down the proteins in tougher cuts of chicken and make the meat more tender. However, be careful not to overdo it, as this can result in mushy meat.