Short on time but big on flavor? Cubed chicken is your answer.
It cooks fast, soaks up sauces like a sponge, and works in everything from stir-fries to casseroles. These 10 easy recipes show you how to turn bite-sized chicken into big-time meals with zero fuss.
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How to Prepare Chicken for Cubing
Cooking starts with proper prep, and cubing chicken is no exception. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken is ready for the spotlight in your recipes.
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken for Cubing
The type of chicken you use plays a huge role in the final outcome. Should you go for breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and easy to cube, perfect for lighter recipes.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more flavorful, great for richer dishes like curries.
- Drumsticks or Wings: Not ideal for cubing but can be deboned if you’re feeling adventurous.
For most recipes, skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They’re easier to handle and cook evenly.
Prefer shaping chicken into hearty classics? Don’t miss our chicken meatloaf recipe for another flavorful and protein-rich option.
Tools Needed for Cubing Chicken Effectively
You don’t need a kitchen full of fancy gadgets to cube chicken, but a few tools can make your life easier:
- A Sharp Chef’s Knife: A dull knife tears meat, leaving ragged edges. Invest in a quality blade.
- A Sturdy Cutting Board: Go for a non-slip board to avoid accidents.
- Kitchen Scissors (Optional): Handy for trimming fat or cutting smaller pieces.
Pro Tip: Partially freeze the chicken for 15–20 minutes before cubing. This firms up the meat and makes cutting much smoother.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cubing Chicken
Let’s break it down:
- Start with Clean Tools: Ensure your knife and cutting board are sanitized.
- Trim the Chicken: Remove any visible fat, cartilage, or tendons.
- Slice Evenly: Cut the chicken into strips about 1–1.5 inches wide. Then, cross-cut those strips to form cubes.
- Check for Uniformity: Aim for pieces of similar size to ensure even cooking.
“A sharp knife and a steady hand are your best allies in the kitchen. Taking the time to prep your chicken properly will make the rest of the cooking process a breeze.”
Top 10 Delicious Cubed Chicken Recipes
Cubed chicken is a game-changer in the kitchen, offering endless possibilities for crafting mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re craving something creamy, spicy, or downright indulgent, there’s a recipe here for you. Let’s explore 15 of the best ways to transform cubed chicken into culinary magic.
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
What’s better than chicken? Chicken drenched in a rich, creamy garlic sauce with vibrant veggies. This dish pairs cubed chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a garlic-parmesan cream sauce that’ll have everyone scraping their plates. Serve it over rice or pasta for a hearty meal.
“This creamy garlic chicken is a hug in a bowl. The cubes of chicken soak up the sauce beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced.”
Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Peppers
Love a little kick? This quick stir-fry combines cubed chicken with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a spicy soy-based sauce. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or sriracha for extra heat, and you’ve got a meal that’s bold, vibrant, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Cubed Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Who doesn’t love Alfredo? Cubed chicken adds a protein-packed twist to this creamy classic. Toss tender chicken cubes with fettuccine, a rich Alfredo sauce, and a sprinkle of parsley. The result? A comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
BBQ Glazed Cubed Chicken Skewers
Skewers aren’t just for summer! Thread cubed chicken onto skewers, brush with tangy BBQ sauce, and grill or bake until caramelized. Pair with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a backyard BBQ vibe, even in the middle of winter.
Lemon Herb Cubed Chicken Salad
Fresh, zesty, and satisfying, this salad is perfect for light lunches or dinners. Toss cubed chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette. Add some feta or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Savory Chicken Tikka Masala
This Indian-inspired recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Marinate cubed chicken in yogurt and spices, then simmer it in a creamy tomato-based curry. Serve with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal that’s rich in flavor and tradition.
Honey Soy Cubed Chicken Stir-Fry
Sweet meets savory in this quick and easy stir-fry. Cubed chicken is tossed in a honey-soy glaze and stir-fried with broccoli and snap peas. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice for a simple yet delicious dinner.
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowls
If you love Asian-inspired flavors, this recipe is for you. Cook cubed chicken in a homemade teriyaki sauce until it’s sticky and caramelized, then serve it over rice with steamed veggies. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for the perfect finish.
Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken with Cubed Pieces
Want a hands-off recipe? This slow-cooker butter chicken is as easy as it gets. Add cubed chicken, tomato puree, cream, and spices to your slow cooker and let the magic happen. By dinnertime, you’ll have a dish that’s tender, flavorful, and practically cooks itself.
Mexican-Style Cubed Chicken Tacos
Taco Tuesday just got better. Season cubed chicken with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, then sauté until golden brown. Load up your tortillas with the chicken, fresh salsa, guacamole, and a drizzle of lime crema.
Want more no-fuss ideas? Browse our quick & easy recipes for weeknight inspiration that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Tips for Enhancing Your Cubed Chicken Recipes
Cubed chicken is versatile, but there are always ways to make it even better. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dishes:
Use Fresh Herbs and Spices for Depth of Flavor
Dried herbs are fine in a pinch, but fresh ingredients like cilantro, parsley, thyme, or rosemary can take your recipe to the next level. Pair fresh herbs with spices like paprika, cumin, or turmeric for complex flavor profiles.
Experiment with Different Marinades and Sauces
Marinades are the unsung heroes of great chicken dishes. Try these combinations:
- Asian-Inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey.
- Mediterranean: Olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic.
- Mexican: Lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and a touch of agave.
Sauces can also change the personality of a dish. Want something comforting? Go creamy. Feeling bold? Opt for spicy and tangy sauces.
Pair Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables
Seasonal veggies not only make your dish more colorful but also ensure freshness and flavor. For instance:
- Spring: Asparagus, peas, and leeks.
- Summer: Zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Fall: Squash, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes.
Balance your savory dish with a sweet, guilt-free finale from our high-protein desserts collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best way to cube raw chicken evenly?
Place it in the freezer for 15–20 minutes until slightly firm, then slice with a sharp knife. This gives cleaner, more uniform cubes.
Can I cube cooked chicken instead?
Yes. Cubed leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works great in salads, soups, and quick sautés, just don’t overcook when reheating.
Is it better to season before or after cubing?
For maximum flavor, season after cubing. This ensures every piece gets coated evenly with spices or marinade.
How do I keep cubed chicken from drying out?
Cook it quickly on medium-high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcooking is the most common reason for dryness.