How long to cook chicken on stovetop?

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How Long to Cook Chicken on Stovetop? A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Chicken

When it comes to cooking chicken on the stovetop, it’s essential to get it right to avoid overcooking or undercooking the meat. The length of time it takes to cook chicken on the stovetop depends on several factors, including the type of chicken, its thickness, and the cooking method used. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how long to cook chicken on the stovetop, so you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

Before we dive into the cooking times, it’s essential to consider the factors that can affect the cooking time of your chicken. These include:

  • Type of chicken: Breasts, thighs, wings, and drums all have different cooking times due to their thickness and fat content.
  • Thickness: Thicker chicken pieces will take longer to cook than thinner ones.
  • Cooking method: Pan-searing, sautéing, or braising will all impact the cooking time.
  • Heat: High heat will cook the chicken faster than low heat.
  • Moisture: The presence of sauce or marinade can affect the cooking time.

Cooking Times for Chicken Breasts

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 5-7 minutes per side (10-14 minutes total) over medium-high heat
  • Bone-in, skinless chicken breasts: 7-9 minutes per side (14-18 minutes total) over medium-high heat
  • Stuffed chicken breasts: 8-10 minutes per side (16-20 minutes total) over medium-high heat

Cooking Times for Chicken Thighs

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 5-6 minutes per side (10-12 minutes total) over medium-high heat
  • Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs: 6-8 minutes per side (12-16 minutes total) over medium-high heat
  • Drumsticks: 7-9 minutes per side (14-18 minutes total) over medium-high heat

Cooking Times for Chicken Wings

  • Flat wings: 5-6 minutes per side (10-12 minutes total) over medium-high heat
  • Drum wings: 6-8 minutes per side (12-16 minutes total) over medium-high heat

Cooking Times for Chicken Drumsticks

  • Bone-in, skinless chicken drumsticks: 7-9 minutes per side (14-18 minutes total) over medium-high heat

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Chicken

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary, to ensure even cooking.
  • Use a thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Don’t press down on the chicken: Resist the temptation to press down on the chicken with your spatula, as this can cause juices to be pushed out of the meat.
  • Let the chicken rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Cooking Mistakes

  • Overcooked chicken: Chicken can become dry and tough if cooked for too long. To avoid overcooking, use a thermometer and check the internal temperature regularly.
  • Undercooked chicken: Chicken may not be cooked through if it’s not cooked for long enough. Make sure to use a thermometer and check the internal temperature regularly.
  • Burning the chicken: High heat can cause the chicken to burn if it’s not stirred regularly. Keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the heat as needed.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken on the stovetop can be a simple and rewarding process if you understand the factors that affect cooking time and take the necessary precautions to avoid common mistakes. By following the cooking times outlined in this article and taking note of the tips and troubleshooting advice, you’ll be well on your way to achieving perfectly cooked chicken every time. Remember to always use a thermometer and don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and flavors to find your favorite way to cook chicken.

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