How To Cut A Whole Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Chicken is a versatile meat that can be used in a variety of dishes, but many people are intimidated by the idea of cutting a whole chicken due to its size and complexity. However, with a little bit of practice and patience, anyone can learn how to cut a chicken into manageable pieces.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cut a whole chicken, along with some tips and tricks to make the process easier and faster:

Step 1: Prep your workspace

Before you begin cutting your chicken, it’s essential to have a clean and organized workspace. Wash your hands, sanitize your cutting board, and get all the necessary tools, including a sharp knife, kitchen shears, and a carving fork.

Step 2: Remove the legs

Start by laying the chicken on its back and pulling the leg away from the body, so the thigh joint is exposed. Cut through this joint with your knife, separating the leg from the body. Repeat with the other leg.

Step 3: Separate the thighs and drumsticks

Using your kitchen shears, cut through the joint that connects the thigh and drumstick to separate them. Repeat the process with the other leg.

Step 4: Remove the wings

Pull the chicken’s wing away from its body and cut through the joint with your knife, separating the wing from the breast. Repeat the process with the other wing.

Step 5: Separate the breast from the backbone

Flip the chicken over so that it’s on its belly. Use your knife to cut along the backbone on one side of the chicken, starting from the tail and moving toward the neck. Repeat on the other side, removing the entire backbone.

Step 6: Cut the breast into halves

Flip the chicken over once again so that it’s on its back. Place your knife between the two breasts as close to the breastbone as possible, and cut down through the breastbone to separate the two halves.

Step 7: Trim excess fat and skin (optional)

Once you’ve cut all the chicken into pieces, you may want to trim any excess fat or skin that’s still attached. This step is optional, but it can make the chicken more visually appealing and healthier.

Tips and Tricks:

– Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife can make the cutting process much easier and safer, as a dull knife may slip or cause uneven cuts.
– Watch your fingers: Be careful not to cut yourself while handling the chicken, especially if you’re new to cutting poultry.
– Save the bones: You can use the chicken bones to make homemade chicken stock, which is a great base for soups and stews.
– Try different techniques: If you’re not comfortable with cutting the chicken into pieces, you can also spatchcock it by removing the backbone and flattening it out for quicker cooking.

Conclusion:

Cutting a whole chicken may seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a great way to save money and make your own chicken pieces for meals. Follow these simple steps, and with a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to cut a chicken with ease.