The Best Ways to Cook Chicken: Tips for Every Cut!

There’s something special about the smell of chicken sizzling away in the kitchen. It’s the kind of aroma that brings everyone to the table, ready to dig in. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, knowing the best ways to cook different chicken cuts can take your meals from simple to unforgettable.

Every cut has its own flavour, texture, and best way to cook it—and once you know how to match the method to the cut, you’ll be serving up juicy, mouthwatering chicken every time. Ready to level up your chicken game? Let’s get into it!

Get to Know Your Chicken Cuts

Before we dive into cooking tips, it helps to know your way around the different chicken cuts. Picking the right one can make all the difference.

Common Chicken Cuts

• Breasts: The go-to for many home cooks. Lean, mild, and super versatile—perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying.

• Thighs: Packed with flavour thanks to a little extra fat. Thighs shine when braised, roasted, or slow-cooked.

• Wings: A party favourite! Chicken Wings are ideal for baking or frying, and they’re even better with your favourite sauces.

• Drumsticks: Budget-friendly and great for family meals. Bake, fry, or grill them for classic comfort food.

• Whole Chicken: The best bang for your buck. Roast it, spatchcock it, or turn it into rich homemade stock.

Choosing the Right Cut

Think about what you’re cooking and how much time you have. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Need it fast? Go for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs.

• Craving big flavour? Pick bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks.

• Feeding a crowd? Wings or a whole chicken are perfect.

Each cut brings something different to the table:

• Breasts: Lean, cooks quickly

• Thighs: Juicy and full of flavour

• Wings: Fun, versatile, and crowd-pleasing

• Drumsticks: Kid-friendly and affordable

• Whole chicken: Great value, many options

Pro tip: Match your cut to your cooking method. Breasts love high heat and quick cooking, while thighs are perfect for slow, juicy recipes.

Best Ways to Cook Chicken

Now for the fun part—how to actually cook your chicken to perfection! Here are a few tried-and-true methods that bring out the best in every cut.

Grilling & Roasting

If you want bold, smoky flavours and crispy skin, grilling and roasting are your best friends.

• Grilling: Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush chicken with oil, season it well, and grill. Breasts need about 6–8 minutes per side, while bone-in pieces take 10–12 minutes.

• Roasting: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Season your chicken, pop it into a roasting pan, and cook about 20 minutes per pound—or until the internal temperature hits 74°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Always let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking so the juices stay locked inside.

Frying & Sautéing

Need dinner on the table fast? Frying and sautéing are quick, easy, and super satisfying.

• Frying: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

• Sautéing: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for faster, even cooking. Toss them in a hot pan with oil, stir occasionally, and cook for about 5–6 minutes.

For deep-fried goodness, heat oil to 175°C (350°F), coat chicken pieces in seasoned flour, and fry for 12–15 minutes until crispy and delicious.

Fresh Chicken Recipe Ideas

Now that you've got the basics down, here are some ideas to keep things interesting in the kitchen.

Easy Weeknight Favourites

Short on time but still want big flavour? Try these quick and tasty recipes:

• One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken: Bright, zesty, and ready in no time.

• Chicken Stir-Fry: Fast, healthy, and a great way to use up veggies.

• Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas: Toss everything on one tray for easy clean-up and a Tex-Mex feast.

Feel free to swap in whatever veggies, spices, or sides you have on hand!

Impressive Dinner Party Dishes

When you want to wow your guests, go for something a little special:

• Coq au Vin: Classic French chicken braised in wine—rich, cozy, and perfect for a winter evening.

• Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Spinach and feta are a dreamy combo, but you can get creative with the fillings.

• Roasted Whole Chicken: A show-stopping centrepiece that’s easier to pull off than you might think.

Little touches like fresh herbs or lemon wedges go a long way toward making these dishes look (and taste) even more impressive.