Making perfectly cooked chicken at home is easier than you think! Follow this step-by-step visual guide to create a mouth-watering chicken dish that your whole family will love
1. Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need within reach. This includes your chicken pieces, cooking oil, seasonings, and the right pan for the job.
2. Prepare and Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken dry with paper towels – this helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
3. Heat Your Pan and Add Oil
Heat your pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom. Wait until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking – this is the perfect temperature for cooking chicken.
4. Cook the Chicken Until Golden Brown
Place your chicken pieces in the pan without overcrowding – they should have space between them. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form. Then flip and cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Check for Doneness and Rest
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving – this keeps the meat juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy Your Homemade Chicken
Plate your perfectly cooked chicken with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or mashed potatoes all work wonderfully. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Now sit back and enjoy the delicious chicken you made from scratch!
