How to Cut Chicken for Delicious Dishes
Why Cutting Chicken is Important
Cutting chicken is an important step in making delicious dishes. A good cut can make all the difference in the flavor and texture of the cooked dish. It is also important for cutting and portioning the chicken in order to ensure that it cooks evenly. Cutting chicken is a skill that can be learned and mastered with a little practice.
Tools Needed
When cutting chicken, it is important to have the right tools. A sharp chef's knife is essential for making clean, even cuts. A cutting board is also necessary to protect the countertop and contain the chicken juices. Other helpful tools include kitchen shears, a meat mallet, and a cleaver.
Steps to Cut Chicken
The first step is to prepare the chicken by removing any fat, gristle, and skin. The chicken should then be rinsed and patted dry with a paper towel. Place the chicken on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to make the desired cuts. If large pieces are needed, use a meat mallet or cleaver. Be sure to cut against the grain for best results.
Bone-In Cuts
Bone-in cuts are the most common way of cutting chicken. Examples are the breast, legs, wings, and thighs. To make these cuts, begin by cutting the chicken at the joints. Then slice the meat away from the bone. These cuts can be further divided into smaller pieces such as cubes or strips.
Boneless Cuts
Boneless cuts are great for dishes such as stir-fries, salads, and wraps. To make boneless cuts, begin by removing the skin and fat. Then use a sharp knife to make the desired cuts. If the chicken is still too tough to cut, use a meat mallet to tenderize the meat. Examples of boneless cuts are cubes, strips, and slices.
