Learn how to impress your guests and elevate your cooking game with this step-by-step guide to cutting a whole chicken like a pro. Don't settle for pre-cut chicken when you can create beautiful cuts and save money in the process.

By Sarika Nand

February 23, 2023

Foodie Posts

Hello and welcome, dear readers! Today, we're diving into a quintessential culinary skill that every home cook should master - how to cut a whole chicken like a pro. Whether you're looking to save some money by buying a whole chicken and cutting it up yourself, or simply wanting to impress your guests with perfectly portioned pieces, this guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to become a chicken-cutting connoisseur.

Now, some may find the thought of breaking down a whole chicken a daunting task, but fear not! With a bit of practice and guidance, you'll soon be able to seamlessly divide a chicken into its various parts, from the succulent breast meat to the juicy thighs and drumsticks. Not only will you save money and impress your friends and family, but you'll also have access to various cuts of chicken that may not be readily available at your local grocery store.

So, grab your cutting board, sharpen your knives, and let's get to work. By the end of this article, you'll be well on your way to mastering the basics of chicken cutting like a true pro!

How to cut a whole Cooked chicken

Why should you learn how to cut a whole chicken yourself.... Well, as mentioned earlier, there are several benefits to being able to break down a whole chicken at home. Here are a few more reasons why learning this skill is worth the effort:

Cost savings: Buying a whole chicken is generally less expensive than purchasing individual cuts, and you can stretch your food budget even further by using all parts of the bird. Plus, when you cut your own chicken, you can portion it out as desired, which can help you plan your meals more efficiently.

Customizable cuts: When you buy a pre-cut chicken, you're limited to the cuts that are available at the store. However, when you cut up a whole chicken yourself, you have control over how it's divided. You can separate the breasts, thighs, wings, and drumsticks, and use each part in different dishes.

Better flavor: Whole chickens tend to have better flavor than pre-cut pieces, thanks to the skin and bones that add depth to dishes like roast chicken, soup, and stock.

Reduced waste: Cutting up a whole chicken at home means you can use every part of the bird, including the bones for stock, which can save you money and reduce food waste.Impressive presentation: Serving a perfectly cooked, beautifully arranged platter of chicken parts can be an impressive feat, especially if you're hosting a dinner party. Learning to cut a whole chicken like a pro can help you elevate your presentation skills and impress your guests. Overall, learning how to cut a whole chicken is a valuable culinary skill that can save you money, give you more control over the cuts of chicken you use, and impress your guests with your cooking prowess. So, roll up your sleeves, grab a sharp knife, and get ready to become a chicken-cutting pro!

Tools You'll Need to Cut a Whole Chicken at Home

Before you start cutting up your chicken, it's important to have the right tools on hand. A cutting board, a sharp knife, kitchen shears, paper towels, and a container or bowl to hold the chicken pieces are the basic tools you'll need to cut up a whole chicken.

Firstly, a cutting board is essential for a successful cutting process. Choose a sturdy cutting board that is large enough to accommodate the size of the chicken, and with a non-slip surface to prevent the chicken from sliding around while you're cutting it.

Next, a sharp knife is crucial for cutting through the chicken's bones and skin. A chef's knife or boning knife is a good choice, but make sure it is sharp to prevent slipping and ensure clean cuts. A dull knife can lead to an uneven cut, which can affect the cooking time of the chicken parts.

Kitchen shears are also handy for trimming excess fat or removing small bones and cartilage. Look for a pair of sturdy shears that can handle the job, as flimsy shears can break and leave you with an uneven cut.

Paper towels are also important to have on hand to clean up any spills or messes that may occur during the cutting process. It's important to maintain a clean and hygienic workspace, especially when dealing with raw chicken.

Finally, you'll need a container or bowl to hold the cut chicken pieces once they're separated. This will help keep the workspace organized and prevent cross-contamination.

In summary, having the right tools on hand is essential for a successful chicken-cutting experience. A sturdy cutting board, sharp knife, kitchen shears, paper towels, and a container or bowl are the basic tools you'll need to cut up a whole chicken. With these tools at your disposal, you'll be ready to tackle the cutting process with confidence and ease.

How to Prepare the Chicken for Cutting

Before you start cutting up your whole chicken, you need to prepare it properly. Here are the steps you need to follow to prepare your chicken for cutting:

1. Thaw the Chicken If you've purchased a frozen chicken, you'll need to thaw it first. The safest way to thaw a chicken is in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to thaw in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, depending on its size.
2. Remove the Giblets Once your chicken is thawed, remove the giblets. Giblets are the heart, liver, and gizzard of the chicken, which are usually packaged in a small plastic bag inside the chicken's cavity. You can discard them or use them to make a flavorful chicken stock.
3. Rinse the Chicken Rinse the chicken under cold running water to remove any remaining giblet residue and blood. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
4. Season the Chicken (Optional) If desired, season the chicken with salt, pepper, herbs, or spices. You can also marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for added flavor.
5. Position the Chicken for Cutting Place the chicken breast-side up on a clean cutting board. Tuck the wings under the body of the chicken to stabilize it while you're cutting it.

By following these steps, you'll have a properly prepared chicken that's ready to be cut up into pieces. With the right tools and preparation, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of cutting up a whole chicken at home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a Whole Chicken into Parts

Cutting a whole chicken into parts may seem daunting, but with the right technique, it's a straightforward process. Follow this step-by-step guide to cut a whole chicken into parts:

1. Secure the chicken: Place the chicken on a cutting board, breast-side up, and use a kitchen towel to hold it firmly in place. This will prevent the chicken from sliding around while you're cutting it.
2. Remove the legs: Use a sharp knife to cut through the skin and meat between the leg and the body. Pull the leg away from the body to expose the joint, and then cut through the joint to separate the leg from the body. Repeat on the other side.
3. Remove the wings: Pull the wings away from the body and cut through the joint to separate them from the body. Repeat on the other side.
4. Remove the breast: Use a sharp knife to cut along the breastbone, starting at the neck and working your way down to the ribcage. Once you've cut through the breastbone, use your hands to pull the breast away from the body, and then use the knife to cut through the joint to separate the breast from the body. Repeat on the other side.
5. Separate the breast into two parts: Cut through the center of the breast, perpendicular to the breastbone, to separate it into two parts.
6. Optional: Remove the backbone: To make chicken stock or broth, you can remove the backbone by cutting along each side of the spine with kitchen shears and then pulling it away from the chicken.
7. Cut the leg and thigh: Cut through the joint between the leg and thigh to separate them into two parts.
8. Optional: Remove the skin: If desired, you can remove the skin from the chicken parts by using your fingers or a paper towel to pull it away from the meat.

With these steps, you can easily cut a whole chicken into parts for cooking or storing. Remember to work carefully, prioritize safety, and use sharp tools for the best results.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Cutting Technique

First, practice makes perfect: Cutting a chicken takes practice, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Take your time, stay focused, and keep practicing. The more you cut, the better you'll become.

Second, use a sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for a clean and efficient cut. Dull knives can make the process more difficult, increase the risk of injury, and lead to uneven cuts. Invest in a good quality knife and keep it sharp.

Third, watch your fingers: When cutting a chicken, it's crucial to watch your fingers. Keep your fingers tucked in and away from the knife blade. Use a claw grip to hold the chicken securely and prevent it from slipping.

Fourth, use the right cutting technique: Cutting a chicken requires different techniques for each part of the chicken. For example, when removing the breast, use a long, sweeping motion to cut along the breastbone. When removing the legs, use a sawing motion to cut through the joint.

Fifth, consider portion sizes: When cutting a chicken, consider the portion sizes you want for your recipe. For example, if you're making a stir-fry, you may want to cut the chicken into small pieces, while if you're roasting the chicken, you may want larger portions.

Finally, take safety precautions: Always use a cutting board and keep it clean to prevent cross-contamination. Use a kitchen towel to secure the chicken and prevent it from sliding around. And most importantly, be mindful of your surroundings and keep sharp objects away from children and pets.

By following these tips, you can perfect your chicken cutting technique and become a pro in no time. Remember to take your time, prioritize safety, and enjoy the process.

How to Store and Use the Different Parts of a Chicken

Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are the leanest part of the chicken and can be used in a wide range of recipes, from salads to stir-fries. To store chicken breasts, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs have more fat than chicken breasts, making them more flavorful and juicy. They are great for grilling, roasting, or frying. To store chicken thighs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are a popular appetizer and can be baked, fried, or grilled. To store chicken wings, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Chicken Legs: Chicken legs are flavorful and versatile, and can be roasted, grilled, or fried. To store chicken legs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Chicken Giblets: Chicken giblets include the liver, heart, and gizzard, and can be used to make gravy or stuffing. To store chicken giblets, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two days.

Chicken Bones: Chicken bones can be used to make chicken stock, which can be used in a variety of recipes. To store chicken bones, place them in a large resealable plastic bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

Recipe Ideas for Using Up Your Freshly Cut Chicken Pieces

Now that you've learned how to cut and store a whole chicken, it's time to put those pieces to use! Here are some recipe ideas for using up your freshly cut chicken pieces:

Chicken Stir-Fry: Cut chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with your favorite veggies, sauce, and rice or noodles for a quick and easy meal.

Chicken Fajitas: Slice chicken breasts or thighs into strips and sauté with onions and peppers. Serve with tortillas, sour cream, and guacamole for a delicious Tex-Mex meal.

Chicken Salad: Cube chicken breasts and mix with your favorite salad ingredients, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and dressing, for a healthy and filling lunch.

Chicken Curry: Cut chicken thighs into chunks and cook with curry paste, coconut milk, and veggies for a flavorful and comforting meal.

Roasted Chicken: Season chicken legs with your favorite herbs and spices, and roast in the oven for a classic and comforting meal.

Chicken Soup: Use chicken bones to make homemade chicken stock, and use that stock to make a comforting chicken soup with vegetables and noodles.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Thread chicken pieces onto skewers with your favorite veggies, and grill for a flavorful and healthy meal.

By using these recipe ideas, you can make the most out of your freshly cut chicken pieces and create delicious meals for yourself and your loved ones.

How to Carve A Whole Cooked Chicken

If you've got a ready-cooked chicken that you're looking to carve up, you'll want to do it right to get the most out of your bird. Here's how to carve a ready-cooked chicken like Gordon Ramsay:

1. First, let the chicken rest. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender and juicy. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
2. Start by removing the legs. Hold onto the leg and cut through the skin and joint with a sharp knife. Once you've removed the leg, cut through the joint to separate the drumstick from the thigh.
3. Next, remove the wings. Cut through the joint to remove the wings from the body.
4. Now it's time to carve the breast. Make a horizontal cut across the top of the breast, just above the wing. Then, make a vertical cut down the breastbone, and continue to cut down and around the ribcage to remove the breast meat in one piece. Repeat on the other side.
5. Slice the breast meat against the grain into thin slices, and arrange on a platter with the legs and wings.
6. Don't forget about the carcass! You can use it to make chicken stock or soup.

By following these steps, you'll be able to carve a ready-cooked chicken like a pro, just like Gordon Ramsay. It's a great skill to have, whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking to make the most of your leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About: How to Cut a Whole Chicken

Q: How do I cut a whole chicken into pieces?

A: Start by removing the wings and legs, then separate the thighs from the drumsticks. Cut the chicken breast in half and then cut each half into two pieces, resulting in four portions.

Q: What tools do I need to cut a whole chicken?

A: You will need a sharp chef's knife, kitchen shears, and a cutting board.

Q: Is it necessary to wash the chicken before cutting it?

A: No, it's not necessary to wash the chicken before cutting it. Washing raw chicken can actually spread harmful bacteria around your kitchen. Instead, just pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

A: The best way to know if the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken after cutting it?

A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken after cutting it into pieces. Just make sure to wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Q: How long does it take to cut a whole chicken?

A: It can take around 10-15 minutes to cut a whole chicken into pieces, depending on your experience and skill level.

Q: Is it better to cut a whole chicken before or after cooking?

A: It's better to cut a whole chicken before cooking if you plan on using the pieces separately in different recipes. If you plan on cooking the chicken whole, it's best to leave it intact and cut it after it's cooked.

Q: Are there any safety precautions I should take when cutting a whole chicken?

A: Yes, always use a sharp knife to prevent slips and cuts, and make sure to wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with the raw chicken to prevent the spread of bacteria.