Quick Answer
It’s recommended to cut chicken into strips before cooking fajitas. Pre-cutting the chicken allows it to cook faster and more evenly. The chicken can marinate better too when it’s cut into smaller pieces.
Why Cut Chicken for Fajitas Before Cooking
Cooks More Evenly
Cutting the chicken into smaller, thinner strips before cooking allows it to cook faster. The thinner pieces will cook through at the same rate as the exterior gets browned and crispy. If left in larger pieces, the exterior could burn while the inside is still raw.
Pre-cutting chicken helps the pieces all cook to the proper doneness at the same time. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
Absorbs More Flavor
When chicken for fajitas is cut before marinating, the strips have more surface area for the marinade to penetrate. More marinade can seep into the meat to add extra flavor.
If left in larger pieces, the marinade may only flavor the outer surface. The interior of thicker cuts doesn’t absorb as much. Pre-cutting allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper.
Cooks Faster
In addition to cooking more evenly, pre-cut chicken for fajitas will cook more quickly. Thinner strips require less time in the pan or on the grill to fully cook through.
Trying to cook larger chicken pieces results in overcooking the exterior while the inside remains underdone. Cutting the chicken first allows it to cook in less time.
Easier to Eat
Pre-cutting the chicken makes fajitas easier to assemble and eat. Long strips are simpler to place into the tortillas or on plates.
If left in larger pieces, the chicken would need to be cut at the table. Pre-cutting eliminates this step for quicker and easier eating.
How to Cut Chicken for Fajitas
Here is a simple process for cutting chicken breasts for fajitas:
1. Slice the Chicken Breast in Half
Start by cutting the chicken breast in half horizontally to make two thinner cutlets. This makes the pieces thinner and easier to cut into strips.
2. Cut Each Cutlet into Strips
Next, slice each chicken cutlet into long, 1/2-inch thick strips. Cut at an angle or diagonally across the cutlet to make elongated pieces.
3. Transfer to a Bowl
Place the sliced chicken strips into a bowl. Add the desired marinade and stir to coat each piece.
4. Let Marinate 15-30 Minutes
For best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for 15-30 minutes before cooking. The strips will absorb more of the marinade than larger pieces.
5. Cook the Chicken
Finally, cook the marinated chicken on the stovetop, grill or broil until fully cooked through. The thinner strips will cook faster than larger pieces.
Tips for Cutting Chicken for Fajitas
– Use sharp knife for clean cuts
– Cut against the grain of the meat
– Remove excess fat or tendons
– Cut strips around 1/2 inch thick
– Add marinade right after cutting
– Don’t overcrowd pan when cooking
– Cook over high heat for browning
Conclusion
Pre-cutting chicken breasts into thin strips before cooking is highly recommended for fajitas. It allows the meat to cook faster, absorb more flavor, and cook evenly throughout. Follow the simple steps to properly cut chicken for fajitas before marinating and cooking. Thinner strips result in quicker cooking time and better flavor penetration.