How to Cook Grilled Chicken on Stove?

Are you craving juicy, flavorful grilled chicken but don’t have access to a grill?

In this article, we will explore the step-by-step guide on how to cook delicious grilled chicken on the stove.

From preparing the chicken with the perfect marinade and seasonings to cooking it to perfection, we’ve got you covered.

Join Chris Poormet, the award-winning culinary blogger behind Poormet.com, as we embark on this mouthwatering culinary journey together. Let’s get cooking!

About Chris Poormet and Poormet.com

Chris Poormet, the owner of Poormet.com, is a renowned culinary expert who has received accolades as the Culinary Blogger of the Year. His blog features a plethora of mouth-watering recipes and cooking tips appreciated by a loyal following.

Chris Poormet’s passion for cooking was ignited during his teenage years, experimenting with flavors and techniques in his family’s kitchen. This early fascination with food paved the way for his culinary journey, where he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for food presentation and food photography.

Over the years, Chris’s dedication to creating delicious yet accessible recipes has earned him numerous culinary awards and recognition in the food industry.

Why Grill Chicken on Stove?

Credits: Poormet.Com – Douglas Clark

Grilling chicken on the stove offers a convenient and efficient cooking method, especially when using a grill pan on the stovetop. It allows for quick and flavorful preparation without the need for an outdoor grill.

One of the key advantages of grilling chicken on the stove with a grill pan is the speed at which the cooking process can be completed. Unlike traditional stovetop cooking methods that can be time-consuming, using a grill pan allows for quicker cooking times due to direct heat contact.

This method also excels in flavor retention, as the grill pan’s ridges help create those coveted grill marks, enhancing the taste and appearance of the chicken. The juices are sealed in, resulting in moist and succulent chicken every time.

Indoor cooking convenience is another major benefit of stovetop grilling. Regardless of weather conditions or outdoor space limitations, you can enjoy the flavors of grilled chicken right in your kitchen, making it a versatile option for year-round cooking.

What Ingredients Do You Need?

To prepare delicious grilled chicken, you will need a variety of ingredients including chicken, a selection of seasonings such as garlic powder and onion powder, aromatic herbs like basil and parsley, and flavorful additions like olive oil and lemon juice.

For the perfect blend of flavors, consider incorporating a diverse range of herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, cumin, paprika, and oregano. These ingredients not only add depth and complexity to the dish but also cater to varying taste preferences.

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and crushed pepper flakes before grilling can elevate the overall taste and tenderness of the meat. Finding the right balance of seasonings and herbs is key to creating a mouthwatering grilled chicken dish that will impress your guests.

Chicken

Chicken is a versatile protein that serves as the perfect canvas for a variety of meal prep options. With the right selection of ingredients and seasonings, chicken can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying dish.

From grilling to roasting, stir-frying to braising, there are countless ways to cook chicken to perfection. Whether you prefer a classic lemon herb seasoning or opt for a spicy marinade, the flavor possibilities are endless. Choosing high-quality, fresh chicken is essential in ensuring a tender and flavorful outcome. By marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and herbs, you can elevate its taste profile and create a mouthwatering culinary experience.

Marinade

A flavorful marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with delicious tastes and tenderizing the meat. Combining seasonings, olive oil, and lemon juice creates a zesty and aromatic base for your grilled chicken.

Marinating chicken not only enhances its flavor but also helps in keeping the meat moist during the cooking process. The acidity of lemon juice works to break down the tough fibers in the chicken, resulting in a more tender texture. When combined with olive oil and a blend of herbs and spices, the marinade adds depth and complexity to the dish.

• For optimal results, it is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
• Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic, paprika, oregano, or cumin to create unique flavor profiles that suit your preferences.

Seasonings

The right blend of seasonings, including aromatic herbs, flavorful spices, garlic powder, and onion powder, can elevate the taste of your grilled chicken to a whole new level. Experimenting with different seasonings allows for a customized flavor profile.

When selecting seasonings for grilled chicken, it’s essential to consider the flavor profiles you want to achieve. For a classic and comforting taste, a combination of garlic powder and onion powder works wonders. Garlic powder adds a robust umami flavor, while onion powder brings a subtle sweetness. You can enhance these flavors further by incorporating herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.

For a more adventurous palate, experiment with a blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. These spices, when paired strategically, create a harmonious balance of heat and smokiness.

Cooking Oil

Choosing the right cooking oil, such as olive oil, is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and imparting rich flavor to your grilled chicken. Utilizing a cast-iron pan further enhances the cooking process by ensuring even heat distribution and excellent searing.

Apart from its culinary benefits, olive oil also offers numerous health advantages due to its high content of monounsaturated fats. These heart-healthy fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

In terms of using a cast-iron pan for grilling chicken on the stove, the heat retention properties of the pan make it ideal for maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This results in juicy, flavorful chicken that is perfectly cooked.

How to Prepare the Chicken for Grilling?

Credits: Poormet.Com – Justin Martin

Preparing the chicken for grilling involves essential steps like cleaning, seasoning, and ensuring it is ready for the chosen cooking method. Proper preparation sets the foundation for a delicious and well-cooked grilled chicken dish.

Begin by washing the chicken under cold water to remove any unwanted residues and pat it dry using paper towels. Next, carefully season the chicken with a blend of your favorite spices or marinate it for a few hours to enhance the flavor. Consider the cooking method you want to use; whether it’s direct grilling, indirect grilling, or even using a rotisserie. Each method brings out different textures and flavors in the chicken, so choose according to your preference.

Clean and Pat Dry the Chicken

Before grilling, it is essential to clean and pat dry the chicken to remove any impurities and excess moisture. This step ensures that the seasonings adhere well to the chicken and promotes even cooking during the chosen cooking method.

Cleaning and drying the chicken is a fundamental preparation step that should not be overlooked. By cleaning the chicken thoroughly, you eliminate any bacteria or dirt that may be present on the surface, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Moreover, drying the chicken allows the seasonings to coat the meat evenly, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish. Properly dried chicken also ensures that it cooks uniformly, preventing undercooked or overcooked sections. Taking the time to clean and dry the chicken sets a solid foundation for a delicious and safe grilling experience.

Marinate the Chicken

Marinating the chicken in a flavorful mix of seasonings, herbs, and spices ensures that the meat absorbs delicious flavors and becomes tender. Allowing the chicken to marinate for an adequate time enhances its taste and texture for grilling.

When marinating chicken, it is essential to choose a mix of seasonings and spices that complement each other. A combination of garlic, ginger, paprika, and lemon juice can add depth and zing to the chicken. Be sure to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the marinate to ensure an equal distribution of flavors. Refrigerating the marinated chicken allows the flavors to penetrate the meat slowly, resulting in a more pronounced taste when grilled.

Season the Chicken

Seasoning the chicken with a mix of herbs, spices, garlic powder, and onion powder adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. It creates a well-seasoned surface that enhances the taste and aroma of the grilled chicken.

In terms of properly seasoning chicken, the possibilities are endless. The combination of herbs and spices not only adds layers of flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicier and more succulent upon cooking.

• Garlic powder provides a robust and earthy undertone, while onion powder adds a sweet and aromatic element.
• Experimenting with different seasoning techniques such as dry rubs, marinades, or brines can elevate the dish to a whole new level.

The right seasoning blend can complement the cooking method used, whether it’s grilling, baking, or pan-searing, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.

How to Cook Grilled Chicken on Stove?

Credits: Poormet.Com – Gary Johnson

Cooking grilled chicken on the stove requires the use of a grill pan on the stovetop, ensuring a simple and effective cooking method. By following specific steps and cooking times, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken indoors.

Begin by preparing the chicken breasts by marinating them in favourite seasonings or marinade for at least 30 minutes to infuse the meat with flavour. Once marinated, preheat your grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is sufficiently heated before placing the chicken on it.

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it gets those beautiful grill marks. To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Once done, remove the chicken from the grill pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This stovetop grilling method allows you to enjoy delicious grilled chicken any time of the year, no matter the weather outside.

Preheat the Stove and Pan

To cook grilled chicken on the stove, it is essential to preheat both the stovetop and the grill pan. Preheating ensures even cooking and proper searing of the chicken, leading to delicious and visually appealing results.

When you preheat the stovetop and grill pan before cooking the chicken, it allows for uniform heat distribution across the cooking surface. This helps in preventing any cold spots that might result in unevenly cooked chicken. By preheating, you create a searing effect on the chicken, locking in the juices and flavors for a more succulent taste.

Experts recommend preheating the grill pan over medium to medium-high heat for at least 5-10 minutes before placing the chicken on it. This temperature range ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly without burning or sticking to the pan.

Place the Chicken on the Pan

Once the pan is properly heated, place the seasoned chicken on the grill pan for cooking. Properly arranging the chicken ensures even cooking and allows for the development of flavorful grill marks on the meat.

When placing the chicken on the grill pan, make sure to leave enough space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation and heat distribution. This ensures that each chicken portion cooks uniformly.

To achieve those coveted grill marks, resist the temptation to move the chicken around too frequently. Let each side sear undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping to get those beautiful charred lines.

Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken cuts. Thicker pieces will require more time on the grill, so it’s advisable to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the optimal internal temperature.

Cook for 8-10 Minutes on Each Side

Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side, ensuring thorough cooking and delicious searing of the meat. Following the recommended cooking times on the stovetop with a grill pan results in perfectly grilled chicken.

When grilling chicken on a stovetop, it’s crucial to maintain the right balance of heat for optimal results. After placing the chicken on the grill pan, resist the urge to constantly flip it. Allow each side to cook undisturbed for the specified time to achieve that coveted sear.

• One essential aspect of grilling chicken evenly is to ensure that the heat is distributed uniformly beneath the meat. This can be achieved by preheating the grill pan adequately.
• When it’s time to flip the chicken, you should notice a golden-brown crust forming on the cooked side, indicating that it’s time to turn it over.

Monitoring the color and texture of your grilled chicken is key in determining its doneness. Stick a thermometer into the thickest part of the meat; it should read 165°F (74°C) when properly cooked, ensuring a safe and delicious meal.

Check for Doneness

To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, check for doneness by using a meat thermometer or visually assessing the meat. Properly cooked grilled chicken should reach the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption.

When using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone, as this can affect the reading. The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can rely on visual cues: the chicken should be firm to the touch, with clear juices running from the meat and no pink color remaining. Remember that letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and flavorful meat.

How to Serve and Enjoy Grilled Chicken on Stove?

Serving and enjoying grilled chicken on the stove is a delightful experience, especially when paired with fresh salads, aromatic herbs, and a medley of flavors. The meal prep involved ensures a satisfying and flavorful culinary treat.

In terms of serving up this delicious dish, presentation plays a crucial role. Arrange the succulent chicken pieces on a platter, garnished with fresh greens and zesty herbs for an eye-catching appeal. Complement the grilled chicken with a colorful array of salads, offering a contrast of textures and tastes.

Pairing the grilled chicken with sides like quinoa salad or roasted vegetables enhances the overall dining experience, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The subtle smokiness from the grill merges with the freshness of the salads, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Pair with Side Dishes

Pairing grilled chicken with a variety of side dishes such as fresh salads or flavorful accompaniments elevates the dining experience and provides a balanced meal. The combination of chicken and complementary sides offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

When choosing side dishes to accompany grilled chicken, it’s essential to consider contrasting elements that enhance the overall dining experience. For example, a crisp and refreshing garden salad can provide a cool contrast to the warm and smoky flavors of the chicken, creating a satisfying balance on the palate.

Incorporating flavorful accompaniments like tangy salsa or creamy garlic aioli can further elevate the dish by adding depth and complexity to each bite. These complementary flavors not only enhance the grilled chicken but also introduce a dynamic range of tastes that keep the meal exciting and enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Garnishing grilled chicken with fresh herbs adds a burst of freshness and vibrant flavors to the dish.

In terms of selecting the perfect herbs for garnishing, freshness is key. Opt for vibrant green leaves and avoid any wilted or discolored ones.

Basil, with its sweet and slightly peppery flavor, can complement the smokiness of the chicken beautifully. Oregano adds an earthy and aromatic touch, while parsley provides a fresh and light finish.

Remember, the way you present the herbs can also make a difference in the overall appeal of your dish. Consider finely chopping them for a uniform sprinkle or leaving them whole for a more rustic look.

Serve Hot and Enjoy!

Serve the grilled chicken hot and savor the delightful flavors and textures you’ve created through thoughtful meal prep. Enjoy each bite of this flavorful dish and relish the culinary experience of perfectly grilled chicken on the stove.

When dishing up the grilled chicken, consider pairing it with fresh, vibrant salads to enhance the overall meal. Arrange the succulent pieces on a clean platter, garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added taste. Create an inviting presentation that entices the senses and elevates the dining experience. Remember, the key to serving grilled chicken is ensuring it is hot and juicy, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends gathered around the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I select the right cut of chicken for grilling on the stove?

When choosing chicken for grilling on the stove, it’s important to select cuts that are thin and even in size, such as chicken breasts or thighs. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and won’t take too long to cook.

2. Do I need to marinate the chicken before grilling it on the stove?

While marinating can add flavor to grilled chicken, it’s not necessary when cooking on the stove. You can still achieve delicious, juicy chicken without marinating by seasoning it with herbs and spices before cooking.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan while grilling on the stove?

To prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan, make sure to preheat the pan and oil it well before adding the chicken. You can also use a non-stick pan or spray with cooking spray to further prevent sticking.

4. How long should I cook the chicken on each side when grilling on the stove?

The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken, but a good rule of thumb is to cook each side for 4-5 minutes on medium-high heat. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. Can I use a grill pan to cook grilled chicken on the stove?

Yes, a grill pan is a great tool for cooking grilled chicken on the stove. It allows for those classic grill marks and helps drain excess fat from the chicken.

6. What are some tips for achieving the perfect grilled chicken on the stove?

Some tips for cooking the perfect grilled chicken on the stove include preheating the pan, using high heat, not overcrowding the pan, and allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices. Also, don’t flip the chicken too often, as this can impede the nice charred exterior.