How Long Do You Cook Chicken Breast on Stove?
Cooking chicken breast on the stove can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and cooking times, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how long to cook chicken breast on the stove, including factors to consider and tips to ensure perfect doneness.
Direct Answer: How Long Do You Cook Chicken Breast on Stove?
The cooking time for chicken breast on the stove depends on several factors, including the thickness of the breast, the heat level, and the cooking method. Here are some general guidelines:
- Pan-Seared Chicken Breast: 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, 7-9 minutes per side for medium, and 9-11 minutes per side for well-done.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, 7-9 minutes per side for medium, and 9-11 minutes per side for well-done.
- Poached Chicken Breast: 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, and 14-16 minutes for well-done.
Factors to Consider
Before we dive into the cooking times, it’s essential to consider the following factors to ensure perfect doneness:
- Thickness: Thicker chicken breasts take longer to cook than thinner ones. Aim for breasts that are about 1-1.5 inches thick.
- Heat Level: High heat can cook chicken breast quickly, but it may not cook evenly. Medium-high heat is a good compromise.
- Cooking Method: Pan-searing, grilling, and poaching all have different cooking times and techniques.
- Personal Preference: Some people prefer their chicken breast cooked to a specific level of doneness. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches your desired level.
Cooking Techniques
Here are some cooking techniques to help you achieve perfect doneness:
- Pan-Seared Chicken Breast:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add oil and butter to the pan.
- Place the chicken breast in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Flip the breast and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Grilled Chicken Breast:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken breast with oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken breast on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Flip the breast and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Poached Chicken Breast:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the chicken breast to the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the breast from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you cook chicken breast on the stove like a pro:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken breasts one at a time to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t press down on the breast: Resist the temptation to press down on the breast with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the breast dry.
- Use a thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the breast to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let it rest: Let the chicken breast rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken breast on the stove can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and cooking times, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results. Remember to consider the thickness of the breast, heat level, cooking method, and personal preference when cooking. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you’ll be well on your way to cooking perfect chicken breast on the stove.
Cooking Time Table
Here is a table summarizing the cooking times for chicken breast on the stove:
Cooking Method | Cooking Time (per side) | Internal Temperature |
---|---|---|
Pan-Seared | 5-7 minutes | 145°F (63°C) |
Grilled | 5-7 minutes | 145°F (63°C) |
Poached | 10-12 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
Cooking Time Chart
Here is a chart summarizing the cooking times for chicken breast on the stove:
Thickness | Cooking Time (minutes) | Internal Temperature |
---|---|---|
1 inch | 5-7 minutes | 145°F (63°C) |
1.25 inches | 7-9 minutes | 145°F (63°C) |
1.5 inches | 9-11 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
Note: The cooking times and temperatures provided are general guidelines and may vary depending on your personal preference and the specific cooking method used.