Introduction
Chicken is a popular protein source for many people, and pan-frying is a common method of preparing it. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken in a pan, different recipes, tips and tricks, cookware suggestions, and pairing ideas.
Step-by-Step Guide
Selecting the right cut of chicken is crucial for pan-frying. Chicken breasts, thighs, or a whole chicken cut into pieces are all good choices. Make sure to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices or herbs, such as paprika or garlic powder.
Next, choose an oil that has a high smoking point for cooking. Olive oil and vegetable oil are great options. Heat the pan on medium heat and add the oil. Once it’s hot enough, add the chicken to the pan. Sear the chicken on high heat for a few minutes before lowering the heat and covering the pan to finish cooking the chicken. It’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken before serving to ensure that it is cooked all the way through.
Different Recipes
Here are two different delicious recipes to cook chicken in a pan:
Chicken Teriyaki Stir-fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Heat the oil in a pan and add the chicken. Sear on high heat for about 3-4 minutes until it’s browned on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Add the vegetables and minced garlic to the same pan and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pan and add the soy sauce, honey, and a splash of water. Cook until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley for garnish
- Season both sides of the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Remove from the pan and allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice on top and garnish with parsley.
- Let the chicken sear and cook without moving it too much in the pan to prevent it from sticking.
- Use a meat mallet to flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent cooking results.
- If you want crispy skin, cook the chicken on low heat for a longer period of time so that the skin doesn’t burn.
- A cast-iron skillet: They retain heat well, so the chicken is cooked evenly.
- A non-stick skillet: It’s easier to flip the chicken and clean up afterward.
- A stainless steel skillet: Avoid this as chicken can stick to it.
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes are all great choices.
- Salads: A simple green salad or Caesar salad can balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Mashed potatoes or rice: They can soak up some of the sauce to bring a new dimension of flavor to the dish.
- Grilled or roasted corn: The sweetness combines well with chicken flavor.
Instructions:
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to cook chicken in a pan like a pro:
Cookware Suggestions
When it comes to cookware for cooking chicken in a pan, options include:
Pairing Suggestions
There are various side dishes that can pair well with pan-fried chicken:
Conclusion
Now that you have a step-by-step guide on how to pan-fry chicken, an array of different recipes, tips and tricks, cookware suggestions, and pairing ideas, you have everything you need to whip up a delicious chicken dish at home. Experiment with these techniques and recipes and make it your own.
