Ten Chicken questions and answers

Don’t forget that MagicKitchen.com has lots of scrumptious, easy chicken dishes.

  1. How many pounds of chicken does a rotisserie chicken yield?
    -lots of people want to know this so they can use the ready-cooked meat for another recipe. It comes out to about 3 lbs.
  2. How many cups of chicken does a chicken breast make?
    -another good question, again related to a new recipe, maybe for a great sandwich? 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of chicken breast meat will yield about 3 cups of diced, cooked chicken.
  3. Best way to cook chicken to use in recipes that call for cooked chicken?
    -I like to use the Chinese method, it yields really moist chicken and as a bonus, you get some light broth. Bring a large pot of water to a boil (enough to cover the chicken). Throw in some vegetables and herbs for flavor. Put the chicken in the pot. The water will stop boiling- take the chicken out immediately and set it aside. Bring the water to the boil again, put the chicken in, turn off the heat and cover the pot. Leave it for an hour. strain the broth and use it later, and let the chicken cool, then tear it apart.
  4. Can I make chicken stock from a cooked chicken carcass and raw chicken parts?
    – Definitely! Simmer it low and slow for the best flavor.
  5. Why does baked chicken always come out so dry and chewy? What can I do to make it more appetizing?
    -You could marinate it, but it sounds as though it’s not covered. Try a roasting bag for a never-fail chicken, and use a thermometer to make sure you’re not over-cooking the bird. http://www.fsis.usda.gov/food_safety_education/proper_thermometer_placement/index.asp
  6. What are the best sides for MagicKitchen.com’s Stuffed Chicken ana Luisa?
    We always suggest Broccoli and Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce, Rice Pilaf, Broccoli, Peas and Corn, or your own Basmati Rice
  7. What prevents chicken eggs from developing when buying them from the supermarket?
    Chicken eggs are not fertilized when we buy them. Hens lay eggs whether they are fertilized or not. Also, the refrigeration would not allow fertilization even if they were.
  8. How to cook boneless chicken thighs in the oven?
    Chicken thighs are great in the oven, because they don’t dry out as easily as breast do, but they cook quickly. Salt, pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, a couple of spices you like (rosemary and basil are nice), and pop them into a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes (Preheat the oven first).
  9. How to make good chicken for chicken sandwiches?
    -Simmer it in water for about 20 minutes. Add peppercorns (or just ground pepper), a little oregano and salt to the water. That will keep it tender and moist.
  10. Does chicken soup really make you better if you’re sick?
    Well, it won’t hurt- it’s easy to eat, comforting, and reportedly has anti-inflammatory and mucus-thinning effects. It’s not a cure by any means, but might make you feel better for a while.

Melody, MagicKitchen.com blogger