What to do if chicken is tough?

Ah, tough chicken! It's a common problem, but there are ways to salvage that dinner. Here's a breakdown of what to do, depending on the situation:

Prevention is Key:

* Don't overcook: Overcooked chicken is the most common cause of toughness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to 165°F (74°C) for the breast and 175°F (80°C) for the thigh.

* Don't overcrowd the pan: Give your chicken room to cook evenly. If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of brown, leading to dryness.

* Cook slowly: For larger pieces of chicken or whole chickens, slow cooking or braising is a great way to ensure tenderness.

* Choose the right cut: Chicken breasts are notoriously prone to becoming dry and tough if overcooked. Consider chicken thighs, drumsticks, or using a boneless, skinless chicken breast that's been pounded thin.

Remedies for Already Tough Chicken:

* Shred and Use in Other Dishes: Shred the tough chicken and use it in soups, stews, or salads. The added liquid will help soften the meat.

* Make a Chicken Salad: Shred the chicken, combine it with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and other ingredients for a tasty chicken salad.

* Dice and Add to Pasta Sauce: Add chopped, tough chicken to your favorite pasta sauce for extra protein and flavor.

* Make Chicken Stock: Boil the tough chicken with water, vegetables, and herbs to create a flavorful stock.

* Don't Give Up on the Whole Bird: If you have a whole chicken that turned out tough, try deboning it and using the meat in a casserole, pot pie, or other dish.

Tips for Tender Chicken:

* Brine your chicken: Soaking chicken in a salt and water solution before cooking helps retain moisture and tenderness.

* Use a marinade: Marinating your chicken in acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt will help break down the proteins, making it more tender.

* Sear and Finish in the Oven: Searing chicken in a hot pan creates a crispy exterior and helps retain moisture inside. Finish cooking in the oven for a more evenly cooked result.

Remember, even the best cooks have tough chicken days! Just be creative and turn that tough chicken into a delicious meal.