Say hello to moist, tender chicken every time.
Simply Recipes / Getty images
Chicken is the most frequently consumed animal protein in America.
Its versatile, comparatively affordable, and easy to make.
Simply Recipes / Getty images
Well,mostcuts of chicken are easy to cook.
Chicken breasts are the exception.
Although they are the most popular part of the bird, chicken breasts often turn out dry.
Simply Recipes / Getty images
Ive tried a plethora of methods of avoiding drynessbrining, marinating, pounding thinwith limited success.
Why Does Chicken Breast Often Turn Out Dry?
Put simply, its pretty tricky to avoid dryness because of the physical structure of the breast muscle.
Chicken breasts tend to be dry because there is little fat in these muscles, explains Meathead.
Fat is important because it melts during cooking, creating moisture and flavor.
That said, if you overcook the chicken, it will all be wasted effort.
Cooking the breast to the correct temperature and avoiding overcooking is the ticket to a perfect result.
USDA guidelinesrecommend cooking chicken to a 165F internal temperaturefor safety.
it’s possible for you to get a good digital [thermometer] for $30.
It will become the most valuable tool in your kitchen.
Also, recommends Meathead, dial back the temperature.
Heat shrinks proteins, and that squeezes out moisture.
Lower the cooking heat, and you will lose less moisture.
I cook at 225F.
