Blog

If you’re looking for a versatile and healthy option for your next meal, shaved chicken breast is a great choice. This lean protein can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to salads and sandwiches. Not only is it delicious and easy to prepare, but it also cooks quickly, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.

To start, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or marinades you prefer. Shaved chicken breast is typically made by slicing the chicken breasts into thin, even strips. This can be done by hand with a sharp knife, or you can use a meat slicer for more precise results.

Once you have your chicken sliced, it’s time to cook. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in an even layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Preparation

Before you start cooking shaved chicken breast, there are a few preparation steps that you should follow to ensure a delicious and successful dish.

• Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
• Thaw the chicken breast if it is frozen. Place it in the refrigerator for a few hours or use the defrost function on your microwave if you are short on time.
• Clean the chicken breast thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
• Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to shave it into thin slices. You can also use a meat slicer if you have one.
• Marinate the shaved chicken breast for added flavor. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs.
• Cover the marinated chicken breast and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Once you have completed these preparation steps, you are ready to proceed with cooking the shaved chicken breast. Following these steps will help ensure that your dish turns out juicy and flavorful.

Wash and pat dry

Before cooking shaved chicken breast, it is important to wash it thoroughly and pat it dry. This step helps remove any impurities or bacteria that might be present on the meat. To wash the chicken breast, place it under cold running water and gently rub it with your hands. Make sure to wash all sides of the chicken breast, including the crevices. After washing, use a paper towel to pat the chicken breast dry. This helps to remove excess moisture, which can prevent the chicken from browning properly when cooked. Now that the chicken breast is washed and dried, it is ready to be cooked according to your desired recipe.

Season with spices

Once the shaved chicken breast is ready, it’s time to season it with spices. This step is essential to enhance the flavor of the chicken and add a delicious aroma to your dish. There are various spices and seasonings you can choose from, depending on your personal preference.

Salt and pepper: Start by seasoning the chicken breast with salt and freshly ground black pepper. These basic spices will add a good base flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste.

Garlic powder: Sprinkle some garlic powder over the chicken breast to give it a savory and aromatic flavor. Garlic powder pairs well with chicken and adds a delightful taste to your dish.

Paprika: For a hint of smokiness and a touch of color, add some paprika to the chicken breast. Paprika will not only enhance the taste but also give your dish an appealing appearance.

Italian seasoning: If you want to infuse your chicken breast with a blend of herbs and spices, sprinkle some Italian seasoning. This seasoning typically contains a mixture of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, and basil, which will add a delightful Italian touch to your dish.

Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, basil, or rosemary can also be added to your shaved chicken breast for extra flavor. Chop the fresh herbs finely and sprinkle them over the chicken or use dried herbs for a more intense taste.

Note: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combination. Just be mindful of the quantity of each spice used, as too much can overpower the taste of the chicken. It’s always best to start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

Marinating the chicken

If you have some extra time on hand, you can marinate the seasoned chicken breast before cooking. This will further enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. Simply transfer the seasoned chicken to a ziplock bag or a covered bowl, refrigerate, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, creating a more delicious and succulent dish.

Cut into thin slices

To cook shaved chicken breast, it is important to cut it into thin slices. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly, resulting in a tender and juicy final dish.

Here is how to cut the chicken breast into thin slices:

1. Start by placing the chicken breast on a cutting board.
2. Using a sharp knife, hold the chicken breast firmly and slice it horizontally into thin pieces, making sure to maintain a consistent thickness.
3. Alternatively, you can also freeze the chicken breast for about 30 minutes prior to slicing. This will make it easier to get thin and even slices.
4. Continue slicing the chicken breast until you have cut the entire piece into thin slices.

Once you have finished cutting the chicken breast into thin slices, you are now ready to proceed with your chosen cooking method. Whether you are stir-frying, grilling, or sautéing the chicken, the thin slices will cook more quickly and evenly, resulting in a delicious and flavorful meal.

Cooking Methods

When it comes to cooking shaved chicken breast, there are several methods you can use to achieve delicious and tender results. Here are some popular cooking techniques:

1. Pan-Frying

To pan-fry shaved chicken breast, start by heating a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook it for about 3-4 minutes per side until it is cooked through and nicely browned. Make sure to stir occasionally to cook the chicken evenly.

2. Grilling

If you prefer a smoky flavor and some charred grill marks on your shaved chicken breast, grilling is a great option. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Baking

Baking shaved chicken breast is a convenient and hands-off method. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish. You can marinate the chicken beforehand for added flavor. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Tip: To keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out, you can cover the baking dish with foil for the first 10-15 minutes of baking.

4. Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a quick and versatile method for cooking shaved chicken breast. Heat a small amount of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until it is cooked through. You can add your favorite vegetables and sauces to create a delicious stir-fry dish.

5. Boiling

Boiling shaved chicken breast is a simple and healthy cooking method. Place the chicken in a pot and add enough water to cover it. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and then reduce it to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can season the boiling water with herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Experiment with these cooking methods to find your favorite way to cook shaved chicken breast. Whether you prefer it pan-fried, grilled, baked, stir-fried, or boiled, you can enjoy a delicious and versatile protein option for your meals.

Grilling

Grilling is a popular method for cooking shaved chicken breast. It imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the meat and gives it a nice charred exterior.

To grill shaved chicken breast, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Marinating

Before grilling, marinating the shaved chicken breast can add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs.

Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Grilling Process

Once the chicken is marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Place the shaved chicken breast on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

During grilling, avoid pressing down on the chicken with a spatula or flipping it too frequently, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in dry meat.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.

Grilled shaved chicken breast can be served on its own as a main dish or used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps. Enjoy!

FAQ

How do I prepare shaved chicken breast?

To prepare shaved chicken breast, start by marinating it in your choice of marinade. Then, heat some oil in a pan and add the shaved chicken breast. Cook it for a few minutes until it is no longer pink in the middle. Finally, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

What are some good marinades for shaved chicken breast?

There are many delicious marinades you can use for shaved chicken breast. Some popular options include teriyaki marinade, lemon garlic marinade, barbecue marinade, and Italian dressing marinade. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite flavor combination!

Can I cook shaved chicken breast in the oven?

Yes, you can cook shaved chicken breast in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the shaved chicken breast on a baking sheet. Drizzle it with some oil and season it with your favorite spices. Bake it for about 15-20 minutes, until it is cooked through. Remember to flip the chicken halfway through cooking.

What are some delicious recipes that use shaved chicken breast?

There are endless possibilities for delicious recipes using shaved chicken breast. You can use it in stir-fries, salads, wraps, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Some specific recipe ideas include chicken Caesar salad, chicken fajitas, chicken stir-fry with vegetables, and chicken Alfredo pasta. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the versatility of shaved chicken breast!

Can shaved chicken breast be used in cold dishes?

Yes, shaved chicken breast can be used in cold dishes. You can add it to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and cold pasta dishes for an extra protein boost. Make sure the shaved chicken breast is fully cooked before using it in cold dishes, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

What is shaved chicken breast?

Shaved chicken breast refers to thinly sliced or shaved pieces of chicken breast meat. This makes the chicken cook faster and allows it to absorb flavors more evenly.

Can I shave the chicken breast myself?

Yes, you can shave the chicken breast yourself. To do this, you will need a sharp knife and some practice. Start by removing any excess fat from the chicken breast. Then, hold the chicken breast firmly and carefully slice it horizontally to create thin, even slices. Take your time and be cautious to avoid injuring yourself.