Cooking chicken on the stove is a quick and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking boneless chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or chicken drumsticks, knowing the right cooking time is essential to achieve perfectly cooked and juicy chicken.

For boneless chicken breasts, it typically takes around 6-8 minutes per side to fully cook them on the stove. Make sure to heat some oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness and avoid overcooking.

If you prefer chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and tender, you will need to cook them slightly longer. Plan on cooking bone-in chicken thighs for about 8-10 minutes per side on medium heat, or until they reach that desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For chicken drumsticks, which have more connective tissues, it is recommended to cook them for about 10-12 minutes per side on medium heat. This will ensure that they are fully cooked and tender, giving you delicious and flavorful chicken.

How Long to Cook Chicken Pieces on Stove

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Cooking chicken on the stove is a quick and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal. It’s important to ensure proper cooking time to ensure that the chicken is safe to eat and cooked thoroughly. Follow these guidelines for cooking chicken pieces on the stove:

Preparation

Before cooking the chicken, make sure to wash and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with your preferred spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or herbs.

Cooking

Chicken Part Cooking Time
Chicken Breast 6-8 minutes per side
Chicken Thighs 7-9 minutes per side
Chicken Drumsticks 8-10 minutes per side
Chicken Wings 10-12 minutes per side

When cooking chicken on the stove, make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

It’s important to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces. Thicker pieces may require additional cooking time, while thinner pieces may cook faster.

Remember to always handle raw chicken with clean utensils and wash your hands after handling it to prevent cross-contamination. Enjoy your deliciously cooked chicken!

Preparation

Before cooking chicken pieces on the stove, it is important to properly prepare them to ensure they are safe to eat and cooked to perfection. Follow these steps:

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1. Clean and marinate the chicken:

Start by rinsing the chicken pieces under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels. Next, marinate the chicken in your preferred marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

2. Season the chicken:

After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. This will add extra flavor to the chicken as it cooks.

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3. Heat the stove:

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Place a large skillet or frying pan on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get hot before adding the chicken.

4. Cook the chicken:

Add the chicken pieces to the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

5. Let the chicken rest:

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the stove and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in tender and juicy chicken.

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Remember to always follow proper food safety guidelines and cook the chicken to the recommended internal temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Cooking Time

When cooking chicken pieces on the stove, it is important to ensure that they are cooked thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.

Boneless Chicken Pieces

For boneless chicken pieces, such as chicken breasts or thighs, the cooking time on the stove is typically around 10-12 minutes per side. It is important to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. To check the internal temperature, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken piece.

Bone-in Chicken Pieces

For bone-in chicken pieces, such as drumsticks or wings, the cooking time on the stove is typically longer than boneless chicken pieces. It can take anywhere from 15-20 minutes per side to fully cook the chicken. Again, it is crucial to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

It is important to note that the cooking time can vary depending on the heat of your stove and the thickness of the chicken pieces. It is always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.

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Cooking chicken pieces thoroughly on the stove will ensure that they are safe to eat and deliciously tender. Following the recommended cooking time and using a meat thermometer will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Checking for Doneness

It is crucial to ensure that your chicken pieces are thoroughly cooked before consuming to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses. Here are some ways to check if your chicken pieces are done:

  1. Visual Inspection

    One of the easiest ways to determine if your chicken is cooked is by visually inspecting it. The chicken flesh should no longer be pink, and the juices should run clear. If you notice any pinkness or blood, continue cooking until it disappears.

  2. Internal Temperature

    Another reliable method is to check the internal temperature of the chicken pieces using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.

  3. Cutting the Chicken

    If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken pieces to check for doneness. The meat should be opaque and no longer pink.

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Remember, always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination. Enjoy your cooked chicken pieces with confidence knowing they are safe to eat!

Tips for Tender Chicken

When cooking chicken pieces on the stove, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure that the chicken turns out tender and juicy. Here are some recommendations:

1. Choose the Right Cut

Choose chicken pieces that are suitable for stovetop cooking. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks work well.

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2. Use a Marinade

Marinating the chicken before cooking can help tenderize it. You can use a simple marinade made from ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

3. Preheat the Pan

Preheat the pan on medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This will allow the chicken to sear quickly, locking in the juices and keeping the meat tender.

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When cooking chicken on the stovetop, it’s important not to overcrowd the pan. If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sear. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.

5. Use the Right Cooking Time

Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general guide, boneless chicken breasts usually take about 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in pieces may take longer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest the Chicken

After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

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By following these tips, you can achieve tender and delicious chicken when cooking it on the stove.

Flavorful Seasoning Ideas

Seasoning is an essential step in cooking chicken pieces on the stove. It adds depth and enhances the flavor of the meat. Here are some flavorful seasoning ideas to try:

1. Garlic and Herb Seasoning

This classic combination never fails to impress. Mix minced garlic, dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken pieces before cooking.

2. Cajun Seasoning

Add a touch of spice and heat to your chicken with Cajun seasoning. Blend paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning generously on the chicken before cooking.

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3. Lemon Pepper Seasoning

For a refreshing and tangy flavor, use lemon pepper seasoning. Combine lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Rub the seasoning onto the chicken pieces, ensuring even coverage.

4. Smoky Barbecue Seasoning

Create a smoky and sweet flavor profile with barbecue seasoning. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Coat the chicken pieces with the seasoning before cooking.

5. Asian-inspired Sesame Ginger Seasoning

Add an Asian twist to your chicken by using a sesame ginger seasoning. Combine sesame seeds, ground ginger, garlic powder, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread the seasoning evenly on the chicken pieces.

Remember to adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment and create your own unique seasoning blends by adding different herbs, spices, or even a hint of citrus.

Seasoning Main Ingredients Flavor Profile
Garlic and Herb Seasoning Garlic, dried herbs, salt, pepper Savory and aromatic
Cajun Seasoning Paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, herbs, salt, pepper Spicy and flavorful
Lemon Pepper Seasoning Lemon zest, pepper, salt, sugar Tangy and refreshing
Smoky Barbecue Seasoning Brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper Smoky and sweet
Asian-inspired Sesame Ginger Seasoning Sesame seeds, ground ginger, garlic powder, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, pepper Asian flavors with a kick

Q&A

How long should I cook chicken pieces on the stove?

The cooking time for chicken pieces on the stove depends on the size and type of the pieces. Generally, boneless chicken pieces like thighs or breasts take around 8-10 minutes to cook on medium-high heat, while bone-in pieces like drumsticks or wings may take slightly longer, around 12-15 minutes.

Can I cook chicken pieces on low heat to make sure they are fully cooked?

While cooking chicken pieces on low heat can ensure they are fully cooked, it may also result in a less crispy texture. It is recommended to cook chicken pieces on medium-high heat to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior while ensuring they are fully cooked on the inside.

What temperature should I cook chicken pieces to on the stove?

For chicken pieces to be safely cooked on the stove, they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It is important to use a meat thermometer to accurately measure the temperature and ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat.

Should I cover the pan while cooking chicken pieces on the stove?

It is not necessary to cover the pan while cooking chicken pieces on the stove. Cooking the chicken uncovered helps to achieve a crispy exterior. However, if you are cooking thicker chicken pieces and want to ensure they cook evenly, you can cover the pan with a lid for a few minutes towards the end of cooking.