How much does chicken shrink when cooked?

Chicken shrinks a significant amount when cooked, but the exact percentage varies depending on the cut of chicken and the cooking method.

Here's a general guide:

* Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Typically shrink around 20-25% in weight after cooking.

* Chicken thighs: Shrink a little less than breasts, around 15-20%.

* Whole chicken: Can shrink between 15-20% overall, with some parts shrinking more than others.

Factors that influence shrinkage:

* Cooking method: Dry heat methods like roasting or grilling can cause more shrinkage than moist heat methods like braising or poaching.

* Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in chicken shrinks less than boneless chicken.

* Fat content: Chicken with higher fat content, like thighs, will shrink less than leaner cuts like breasts.

Tips for accounting for shrinkage:

* Overestimate your chicken needs: Add about 25% more chicken than you think you'll need to account for shrinkage.

* Consider cooking time: Chicken that is cooked for a longer time will shrink more.

* Don't overcook: Overcooked chicken will shrink more than chicken that is cooked to the proper temperature.

Remember that these are just general guidelines. The best way to determine how much your chicken will shrink is to weigh it before and after cooking.