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If you generally cook with boneless chicken, you know how convenient it is, but you also might run into one of its biggest problems. Chicken without bones all too often becomes dry and tough; making you feel like every bite has to be washed down. Fortunately, you do not have to put up with dry chicken. There are plenty of things you can do about it, including some methods used by professional chefs. Here is how to make moist, delicious chicken every time.
The Problem Is Overcooking
The biggest and most common reason that most people find their chicken is getting dry is that they are overcooking it. Boneless chicken often requires less cooking than many other forms of this meat, but you cannot just cut the cooking time to get a good dish. Other parts of your meal may be undercooked, or you may end up with meat that is not done in the middle. The good news is that you have another option.
Chicken Needs Added Moisture
Allowing your boneless chicken breasts and thighs to absorb some extra moisture before you cook can make a big difference. There are several options for doing this and getting a tender, tasty meal that does not suffer from dryness. One is to brine the chicken. This allows you to put extra moisture into the meat that will not evaporate while cooking is going on.
To make brine, combine salt, water, and desired seasonings. Remember not to include as much salt in other areas of the recipe if you choose to brine, and do not dissolve too much salt into the brining liquid itself. Otherwise, you could end up with a sodium laden bird that has other taste problems.
Boneless chicken can also be marinated. Use a vinaigrette, light dressing, Italian Salad Dressing, or a homemade mixture to marinate your meat. Anything with a little acid makes a great marinade. A bonus of marinating your chicken recipes is that you will get some great flavor added.
Proper baking can keep boneless chicken from drying out. Add some water or a flavorful liquid to the bottom of the pan, such as red wine. Cover your chicken to keep moisture from escaping, or put a sauce or liquid on the chicken to keep the top from becoming too dry.
Popular choices are bechamel, marinara, salsa, and many others. Just be creative and you will find you have a recipe for boneless chicken that will be a hit with the whole family. Remember that cooking time and heat matter, too – three fifty degrees and twenty minutes are the most common.
Take some time to consider ways to add moisture to your meat, and your cooking will improve. Boneless chicken is an extremely convenient meat, but it can be tricky to cook well. Learning to work with it can take your meals from edible to spectacular, with only a little effort. There are lots of great options out there, so take the time to find out more.
Rich and creamy chicken stroganoff or our easy chicken and broccoli fettucine alfredo recipe