How To Cut Up A Chicken Country Style

Are you ready to take your culinary skills to the next level? Learning how to cut up a chicken “country style” is not only a valuable skill, but it also allows you to save money by buying whole chickens and portioning them yourself. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cutting up a chicken country style, ensuring you have all the knowledge you need to make delicious country-style meals right in your own home.

What You’ll Need

Whole chicken
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Kitchen shears

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start cutting up the chicken, make sure you have a clean and organized workspace. Wash your hands thoroughly and gather all your equipment. Keeping everything within reach will make the process easier and more efficient.

Step 2: Remove the Legs

Start by removing the legs of the chicken. Hold the chicken upright on your cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut through the skin between the leg and the breast. Pull the leg away from the body until you can see the joint. Use the knife or kitchen shears to cut through the joint and separate the leg from the body. Repeat this process on the other side of the chicken.

Step 3: Separate the Thighs from the Drumsticks

Once you have removed the legs, it’s time to separate the thighs from the drumsticks. Bend the leg at the joint to expose the connective tissue. Use your knife or shears to carefully cut through the joint, separating the thigh from the drumstick. Repeat this process on both sides of the chicken.

Step 4: Remove the Wings

Next, you’ll want to remove the wings from the chicken. Place the chicken on its side and locate the joint where the wing connects to the body. Use your knife or shears to cut through the joint, removing the wing from the chicken. Repeat this process on the other side of the chicken.

Step 5: Divide the Breasts

Now it’s time to divide the breasts into two pieces. Place the chicken breast-side up on your cutting board. Locate the breastbone and use your knife to make a deep cut alongside it, splitting the chicken in half. You will now have two breast halves.

Step 6: Optional – Remove the Backbone

If you prefer, you can also remove the backbone from the chicken. This step is optional but can be useful if you’re looking to create boneless chicken pieces. Place the chicken breast-side down and use sharp kitchen shears to cut alongside the backbone, removing it completely from the chicken.

Step 7: Trim and Clean

Once you have all the chicken pieces, take a moment to trim away any excess fat or skin. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. You are now ready to use your beautifully portioned chicken in your favorite country-style recipes!

Learning how to cut up a chicken country style not only gives you more control in the kitchen but also opens up a world of culinary possibilities. With these simple steps, you can save money, customize your chicken portions, and cook up some tasty country-style meals that will impress your family and friends. So go ahead, grab that whole chicken, and start practicing your chicken-cutting skills today!

For those looking to master the art of cutting up a chicken country style, there are a few recipes that perfectly complement this skill. Start by trying your hand at Classic Fried Chicken, where each piece of chicken can be cut to the ideal size for frying. Next, give Chicken and Waffles a whirl for a delicious combination of savory and sweet. If you're in the mood for something sticky and flavorful, Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks offer a mouthwatering option that showcases the drumstick cut perfectly. For a comforting meal, the Chicken and Rice Casserole or Chicken and Dumplings are excellent choices that make good use of the whole bird. Finally, don't miss out on Southern Baked Chicken, a straightforward recipe that highlights the versatility of your newly honed cutting skills.

Want to learn more techniques like how to cut up a chicken country style? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum and share your own tips and tricks with fellow home cooks.

FAQ:

What is the country style method of cutting up a chicken?

The country style method of cutting up a chicken refers to a traditional way of breaking down the bird into several pieces, including legs, wings, breasts, and back. It is commonly used for cooking methods that require specific chicken parts.

Which tools do I need to cut up a chicken country style?

To cut up a chicken country style, you will need a chef’s knife, poultry shears, a cutting board, and a tray or plate to hold the chicken pieces.

How do I start the process of cutting up a chicken using the country style method?

Start by placing the whole chicken breast-side up on the cutting board. Begin by removing the legs and wings, followed by splitting the chicken into two halves by removing the backbone.

How do I remove the legs and wings when cutting up a chicken country style?

To remove the legs, use the poultry shears to cut through the skin between the body and the leg. Pull the leg away from the body, and cut through the joint to separate it. For the wings, simply cut through the joints where they connect to the body.

Can I cut the chicken into smaller parts when using the country style method?

Yes, if you prefer smaller chicken parts, you can further divide each half into halves or quarters by cutting through the joints with a chef’s knife. This will result in more manageable pieces for cooking.

How do I remove the breasts when cutting up a chicken country style?

To remove the breasts, place one half of the chicken breast-side down. Make a cut along the breastbone, following the ribs until you reach the wing joint. Use the knife to cut through the joint, separating the breast from the carcass. Repeat the process for the other half.

Can I save the back and carcass for making chicken stock?

Absolutely! The back and carcass of the chicken can be used to make flavorful chicken stock. Simply place them in a large pot with water, vegetables, and seasoning, and simmer for a few hours to extract the rich flavors.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No

How To Cut Up A Chicken Country Style