The Hammer You Hit Cooked Chicken With: A Guide to Meat Mallet Selection
While the phrase "the hammer you hit cooked chicken with" might sound unusual, it points to a specific kitchen tool: a meat mallet. However, not all hammers are created equal, and using the wrong tool can ruin your dish. This guide will explore the best types of meat mallets for tenderizing cooked chicken, addressing common questions and concerns.
What kind of hammer should I use to pound chicken?
You shouldn't use a standard hammer for tenderizing chicken, cooked or raw. A standard hammer is designed for construction, not food preparation, and could introduce metal fragments or bacteria. Instead, opt for a designated meat mallet. These are specifically designed with food safety in mind and usually have a smooth, flat surface to evenly distribute force.
Is it okay to use a hammer on cooked chicken?
Yes, using a meat mallet on cooked chicken is perfectly acceptable, particularly if you want to flatten it for even cooking or create a uniformly thin piece for dishes like chicken parmesan or schnitzel. However, be gentle to avoid pulverizing the already cooked meat.
What are the different types of meat mallets?
There are several types of meat mallets available:
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Wooden Meat Mallet: These are classic and effective, providing a good balance of force and control. They're durable and easy to clean.
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Metal Meat Mallet: Often made of aluminum or stainless steel, these offer more force for breaking down tougher cuts of meat (though less necessary for cooked chicken). Choose one with a smooth surface to prevent scratching.
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Rubber Meat Mallet: A gentler option that's ideal for delicate cooked chicken. The flexibility helps to distribute force evenly without tearing the meat.
How do I use a meat mallet on cooked chicken?
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Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. This prevents the meat from sticking to the mallet and helps to contain splatters.
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Gently pound the chicken with the mallet. Use even strokes, working from the center outwards. Avoid hammering too hard, as cooked chicken is more delicate than raw.
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Remove the plastic wrap or parchment paper. Your flattened chicken is now ready for further preparation.
Can I use anything else besides a meat mallet to pound cooked chicken?
While a meat mallet is the ideal tool, in a pinch, you could use the bottom of a heavy, sturdy pan (ensure it's clean!), but this method lacks the precision and control of a meat mallet. Avoid using anything sharp or that could damage the surface of the chicken.
What are the benefits of pounding cooked chicken?
Pounding cooked chicken creates several advantages:
- Even Cooking: Flattening chicken ensures even heating throughout, especially crucial when reheating or incorporating it into dishes that require uniform thickness.
- Improved Texture: While not as impactful as tenderizing raw meat, gentle pounding can help to improve the overall texture of cooked chicken, making it more tender and less chewy.
- Faster Cooking Time: Thin pieces of chicken cook more quickly than thicker ones.
By choosing the right meat mallet and employing the correct technique, you can effectively and safely prepare your cooked chicken for a wide variety of delicious dishes. Remember, gentle pressure is key when working with already cooked meat.
