Sometimes, the things that sound the simplest can cause us to pause. A recipe calls for cutting chicken into cubes or lists cubed chicken in the ingredients…but does that mean exactly?
This method actually works for both uncooked and cooked chicken alike. Raw chicken is softer and, therefore, more challenging to cut super evenly. Still, with a sharp knife and a steady hand, lovely, even cubes can be yours. The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to take your time. No one is timing you (unless you are on a reality cooking show of some sort, in which case you are likely not reading this piece).
Cubed chicken breast is a useful last-minute addition to all sorts of dishes, from Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip to a classic Caesar Salad. Personally, I love adding a layer of cubed cooked chicken to pasta salads like this Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad, this Grilled Vegetable Pasta Salad, and this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad.
FAQs
What is cubed chicken? Although it might sound like some type of futuristic fowl (do they breed cube-shaped chickens these days?), cubed chicken actually refers to the preparation of the chicken. Cubed chicken is chicken that has been cut into small cubes, usually around ¾ to 1 inch big. What is the best kind of chicken to cube? It’s easiest to cube chicken if you’re working with chicken breast. The white meat doesn’t contain many bones or tough muscles, so there’s less to avoid in the meat. Plus, with a thick breast, you get more regular, meaty cubes.If your chicken is thick, you may want to cut the slices horizontally and lengthwise before slicing and cubing them. For thinner breasts or thighs, you may just need to cut the slices crosswise before cutting the cubes.
How to Cube Chicken Breast
Slice crosswise: The easiest way is to first cut the chicken crosswise into slices. The thickness depends on how small or large you want your cubes: For 1-inch cubes, cut your chicken into 1-inch slices. Simple.
Cubify: Then, cut the chicken slices into cubes, making all of the sides approximately the same size. Again, no one is going to measure your results with a ruler, and you probably will be using the cubes in a stir-fry, a salad, or a casserole of some kind — so no worries about precision here.
How to Cube Chicken Breasts: A simple how-to for cutting cooked or raw chicken into perfect cubes or dice.
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How to Dice Chicken Breast
If a recipe calls for diced chicken, it usually means that you want small cubes, somewhere around ½-inches on all sides. So for ½-inch cubes (or dice), you want to start with ½-inch slices, and then cut the slices lengthwise into ½-inch strips before cutting them into ½-inch diced cubes.
How to Store Cubed Chicken
Once you’ve cubed or diced your chicken, you can store it in the fridge. Use a sealed container, like a Ziploc bag. The USDA recommends eating cooked chicken within 3 to 4 days.
7 Cubed or Diced Chicken Recipes
This pretty, sweet, and gentle old-school Chinese-American favorite comes together in 20 minutes. So easy and delicious, it rivals any restaurant’s sweet and sour chicken.
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This is one of the best lunches ever…just that perfect chopped salad.
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A handful of Indian spices turn a couple of ingredients into a satisfying full on meal.
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This lush, colorful chicken and filled pasta dish will have everyone vying for seconds.
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This thick and satisfying soup has tailgating or sidelines or post-game meal written all over it.
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This chicken pasta salad is so, so pretty and can be made ahead, which is great when you have a crew of guests.
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Scallions play a significant supporting role in this chicken stir-fry, adding flavor, color, and interest. This is a serious family favorite.
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Cut the chicken crosswise into 1-inch slices.Cut each slice into cubes, trying to make all sides approximately the same size.
It’s easier to cut cooked chicken rather than raw chicken. If possible, at least partially cook the chicken, then cube or dice it. Be sure to clean your cutting board and knife thoroughly afterward.
If a recipe calls for diced chicken, cut the slices and cubes to about ½ inch.
Cubed or diced chicken can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
