12 Cast Iron Pan Chicken Recipes Thatll Make You Want To Hug Your Granny

Oleh susyhar October 30, 2023 Post a Comment

Cast Iron Baked Chicken Cook's Country Recipe Cast iron skillet

Cover Cast Iron Baked Chicken Cook's Country Recipe Cast iron skillet (1000x1500)

What is Chicken Under a Brick?
How to Press Tofu?
What are the Benefits of Using a Cast Iron Pan?
How to Season a Cast Iron Pan?
How to Maintain a Cast Iron Pan?

What is Chicken Under a Brick?

Chicken Under a Brick is a cooking technique that involves grilling or pan-frying chicken with a weight on top, typically a brick or a heavy cast iron skillet. This method results in a crispy skin and tender, juicy meat.

To prepare Chicken Under a Brick, you start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Then, you place the chicken skin-side down on a preheated cast iron pan or grill. Next, you place a weight on top of the chicken, such as a brick wrapped in aluminum foil or a heavy cast iron skillet. The weight helps to flatten the chicken, creating more surface area for a crispy skin.

Cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The weight on top of the chicken helps to evenly distribute heat, resulting in a faster cooking time and a more even cook.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan or grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the Chicken Under a Brick with your favorite side dishes or sauces.

How to Press Tofu?

Pressing tofu is an essential step in preparing it for cooking. Pressing removes excess moisture from the tofu, allowing it to absorb flavors and develop a firmer texture.

To press tofu, follow these steps:

Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess liquid.
Place the tofu on a clean, absorbent towel or paper towels.
Wrap the tofu tightly with the towel or paper towels.
Place a heavy object on top of the wrapped tofu, such as a cast iron skillet or a stack of plates.
Let the tofu sit under the weight for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a firmer texture.
After pressing, unwrap the tofu and it is ready to be cooked.

Pressing tofu helps to remove the excess moisture, making it easier to achieve a crispy texture when cooking. It also allows the tofu to better absorb marinades and seasonings, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

What are the Benefits of Using a Cast Iron Pan?

Using a cast iron pan has several benefits:

Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron pans are known for their excellent heat retention and distribution. They heat up evenly and hold the heat well, allowing for consistent cooking results.
Natural Non-Stick Surface: With proper seasoning, cast iron pans develop a natural non-stick surface. This means you can cook with less oil or fat, making it a healthier option.
Durable and Long-Lasting: Cast iron pans are incredibly durable and can last for generations with proper care. They can withstand high temperatures and are resistant to scratches and warping.
Versatility: Cast iron pans can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or even over a campfire. They are suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques, including frying, sautéing, baking, and more.
Iron Enriched Food: Cooking with cast iron pans can increase the iron content in your food, which is beneficial for individuals with iron deficiencies.

Overall, using a cast iron pan is a great investment for any kitchen. It provides excellent cooking performance, durability, and versatility.

How to Season a Cast Iron Pan?

Seasoning a cast iron pan is crucial to create a non-stick surface and prevent rusting. Follow these steps to season your cast iron pan:

Start by washing your cast iron pan with hot water and a soft sponge. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the seasoning.
Thoroughly dry the pan with a clean towel or by placing it on the stove over low heat until all the moisture evaporates.
Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening to the entire surface of the pan, including the handle.
Use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly and remove any excess.
Place the pan upside down in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
Let the pan bake for about an hour to allow the oil to polymerize and create a non-stick surface.
Turn off the oven and let the pan cool completely before removing it.

After seasoning, your cast iron pan is ready to use. With regular use and proper care, the seasoning will improve over time, making your cast iron pan even more non-stick and durable.

How to Maintain a Cast Iron Pan?

To keep your cast iron pan in excellent condition, follow these maintenance tips:

After each use, wash the pan with hot water and a soft sponge. Avoid using soap, as it can remove the seasoning.
If there are stubborn food residues, use a gentle scrub brush or a pan scraper to remove them.
Thoroughly dry the pan with a clean towel or by placing it on the stove over low heat until all the moisture evaporates.
Apply a thin layer of oil or fat to the pan to prevent rusting. You can use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly.
Store the pan in a dry place to avoid moisture buildup.
If your cast iron pan develops rust, scrub it off with steel wool or a scrub brush. Then, reseason the pan following the seasoning steps mentioned earlier.

Regular maintenance and proper care will help preserve the seasoning of your cast iron pan and ensure its longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cast iron pans are versatile and durable kitchen tools that can elevate your cooking. Whether you're grilling Chicken Under a Brick or pressing tofu, using a cast iron pan can enhance the flavors and textures of your dishes. Additionally, the benefits of even heat distribution, natural non-stick surface, and iron enrichment make cast iron pans a worthwhile investment for any home cook.

Remember to properly season and maintain your cast iron pan to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. With the right care, your cast iron pan will become a cherished kitchen staple that will serve you well for many years to come.

susyhar