Ground chicken is great for making homemade meatballs, nuggets, cutlets, and so much more. ’t the right texture. That’s why, if you already have a meat grinder, it’s a great idea to grind it yourself at home. You can choose the cut of chicken you want and control how smooth the texture will be. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it right.
What Type of Cut Should You Choose?
You can choose any cut but chicken thighs are a great option if you want to make meatballs, burgers, or any dish that requires a higher fat content. You can opt for chicken thighs if you need a leaner option. If you need a mix of lean and fatty ground meat, mix both together.
Is There a Difference Between Minced or Ground Meat?
Yes. Minced meat is finely chopped by hand or with a knife. It has a coarser texture and the meat fibers are intact. Ground meat is processed through a grinder. It has a finer, uniform texture.
What You’ll Need
- Electric or Manual Meat Grinder
- Chicken
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Parchment Paper
- Baking Sheet
- Bowl
How to Grind Chicken with a Meat Grinder
Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Partially Freeze
Trim off any skin, bones, or excess fat from the chicken as they can clog the grinder. Cut the chicken into small chunks. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place your chunks on it. Freeze for 20-30 minutes. Also, chill the grinder parts (blade, plate, and feeding tube) for the same amount of time.
Step 2: Assemble Your Grinder
Put together your meat grinder according to the manual. Ensure all parts are clean and dry before use. Attach the grinder plate you prefer. Fine plates are for smoother textures. Coarse plates are for chunkier ground meat. Place a bowl at the opening.
Step 3: Start Grinding
Feed the chilled chicken pieces into the grinder a few at a time. Use the provided pusher tool to guide the meat through the machine. Avoid overloading the grinder. Work in batches to prevent clogging.
Step 4: Double Grind for Smoother Texture (Optional)
If you want extra-fine ground chicken for sausages or chicken nuggets, run the meat through the grinder a second time. Use a finer plate for the second pass.
How to Refrigerate the Meat
Transfer the meat into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store the meat in the back part of your fridge. The temperature should be set to 40°F (4°C) or lower. The meat will last for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze it. Frozen minced meat can last up to 4 months.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
No, the chicken should be partially frozen. Fully frozen meat can damage your grinder.
What Grinder Should I Use?
An electric grinder is faster and easier for large batches. A manual grinder works well but you’ll need to put in some elbow grease.
Can I Grind Other Meats with Chicken?
Yes! You can mix the chicken with pork or beef.
Summary
And that’s it! Grinding your own chicken might take a little effort, but it’s totally worth it for fresher, customizable meat.
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