Best Knife For Cutting Raw Chicken (Including Breast And Bones)

Welcome to our article on the best knife for cutting raw chicken! Properly preparing raw chicken for cooking can be a daunting task, but having the right tools can make all the difference. A sharp, sturdy knife is essential for ensuring clean cuts and minimizing the risk of injury.

In this article, we will review some of the top options on the market and provide tips on how to choose the best knife for your needs.

Best Knife For Raw Chicken

Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, we hope that this information will help you make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right knife for cutting raw chicken.

Table Of Contents:

Kitory Serbian Meat Cleaver

Kitory Serbian Meat Cleaver

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The Unique Serbian Knife is a high-quality meat cleaver made with experienced craftsmanship and the best materials. Its thick back and thin edge make it razor sharp, perfect for cutting, chopping, slicing, and cleaving meats, small bones, vegetables, and fruits.

The tapered bolster provides a balanced grip and finger protection, while the seamless and durable Pakkawood handle is waterproof and resistant to breaking or accumulating food residue.

This knife is a great choice for professional chefs, farm use, and home cutlery, and it comes in an elegant gift box, making it a thoughtful present for any occasion.


PROS:

  • The V-shaped angle of 15° allows for effortless cutting of raw meat.
  • The cleaver is forged by experienced workers using a quenching and cooling process, making it tough and durable for long-term use.
  • The full-tang structure provides excellent balance, making it easy to use for extended periods of time. The Pakka wood handle also offers a non-slip and comfortable grip.

CONS:

  • The extremely sharp edge means that extra caution must be taken when using this knife to avoid cutting oneself.
  • The blade may need to be sharpened regularly to maintain its sharpness.
  • The black wrought finish on the blade may show stains or rust over time if not properly cared for.


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IMARKU 8-Inch Japanese Chef Knife

imarku Japanese Chef Knife

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The High-Carbon Stainless Steel Blade is a professional-grade knife made from high-quality stainless steel that is enhanced with 0.6-0.75% carbon for extra strength and durability. It is a multi-functional knife that can be used for cutting, dicing, slicing, and chopping, and is also effective at cutting meat off bones.

The knife has a Rockwell Hardness Scale rating of 56-58, making it one of the toughest in its class. The ergonomic Pakka handle offers comfort, strength, and stability, while the ultra-sharp edge is engineered for precise cuts and remains sharp even after tough tasks.

The blade is also resistant to corrosion and staining thanks to its 16-18% chrome content and glossy finish. This knife makes a great gift for any occasion.


PROS:

  • The knife is made with Japanese technology and high-quality materials, including a toughened stainless steel blade that is resistant to rust and corrosion. This makes it suitable for tough tasks and ensures long-lasting functionality.
  • The Pakka handle is comfortable to hold and minimizes the risk of aches and cramps after extended use.
  • The IMARKU Professional 8-Inch Chef’s Knife is suitable for a wide range of tasks, including cutting, chopping, dicing, slicing, and removing flesh from bones.

CONS:

  • The knife should not be used to slice through frozen foods as this may dull the blade.
  • The protective finish on the blade may wear away if exposed to high heat, resulting in a permanently dull finish.
  • The blade may need to be sharpened regularly to maintain its sharpness and effectiveness.


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MAD SHARK Professional 8-Inch Santoku

MAD SHARK Chef Knife

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The MAD SHARK kitchen knife is an all-purpose tool that is suitable for chopping, dicing, mincing, and slicing a wide range of ingredients, including vegetables, poultry, roasts, and more. It is made of high-carbon German steel that is engineered to perfection at a Rockwell hardness of 56 ± 2 for long-lasting performance and resistance to rust and stains.

The knife’s edge is ultra-sharp and forged with a new generation of special military steel forging technology for lasting sharpness. It has a thickness of 2.5mm and is hand sharpened at 14-16 degrees per side for maximum sharpness and edge retention.

The handle is designed with unique engraving and an ergonomic shape that is double-riveted for a sure grip and stability. It is laminated and polished for a sanitary build and features a hollow oval design at the blade to prevent food from sticking.

The MAD SHARK kitchen knife comes with a lifetime warranty, including a 30-day return policy and free replacement.


PROS:

  • The MAD SHARK kitchen knife is suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks, including chopping, dicing, mincing, and slicing vegetables, poultry, roasts, and more.
  • The knife’s edge is forged with a new generation of special military steel forging technology for lasting sharpness.

CONS:

  • Some reviewers have found that their MAD SHARK kitchen knife arrived dull, requiring additional sharpening before use.
  • The blade may need to be sharpened regularly to maintain its sharpness and effectiveness.


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Utopia Kitchen 7-Inch Cleaver

Utopia Kitchen 7 Inch Cleaver Knife

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The Utopia Kitchen 7-Inch Meat Cleaver is a reliable and easy-to-use knife that is suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. It is equipped with a 2.9 mm blade thickness and is superbly sharp, making it efficient and effective at slicing through meats and other ingredients.

The knife is balanced in weight, making it easy to maneuver and control, and is suitable for use in professional and home kitchens. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, the Utopia Kitchen 7-Inch Meat Cleaver is a versatile tool that can handle all of your slicing needs.


PROS:

  • The Utopia Kitchen 7-Inch Meat Cleaver is made of high-carbon stainless steel and has a full tang that extends through the handle, making it strong and durable.
  • The cleaver is adequately heavy and has a good balance, making it easy to handle and control.
  • The cleaver is sharp right out of the box and can make clean cuts through a wide range of ingredients, including soft fruits and vegetables.

CONS:

  • The cleaver is very sharp and can cause serious injury if not used with caution. It is important to keep your hands away from the cutting board when using the cleaver for chopping.
  • Some reviewers have reported that the handle of the cleaver lacks grip, making it difficult to hold onto when chopping large chunks of meat.
  • The cleaver may need to be sharpened regularly to maintain its sharpness and effectiveness.


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TUO Osprey Series 6-Inch Boning Knife

TUO Boning Knife

 

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The TUO Osprey Series 6-inch Boning Knife is a versatile and high-quality tool for removing bones, filleting fish, and more. It is made with heat treatment and cold processing techniques, ensuring its durability and performance.

The blade is made of German stainless steel and is carefully polished for a sharp edge, perfect for precise cuts. The handle is ergonomically designed with a large and round pakkawood grip for comfort and flexibility. TUO is committed to providing excellent customer service, making this knife a reliable choice for any professional or home cook.

In addition to the 6-inch boning knife, the Osprey Series also includes a range of other knives to meet all of your kitchen needs.


PROS:

  • The 6-inch boning knife is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including removing bones, filleting fish, and more.
  • The blade is made of high-quality German stainless steel and is carefully polished for a sharp edge, making it perfect for precise cuts.
  • The handle is ergonomically designed with a large and round pakkawood grip, providing comfort and flexibility during use.
  • The Osprey Series includes options that will fulfill dozens of other kitchen purposes!

CONS:

  • The Osprey Series boning knife may not be suitable for slicing through frozen foods, as this could potentially dull the blade.
  • It is not recommended to use the knife in a hot flame, as this could damage the protective finish on the blade.
  • The blade may require some maintenance to prevent rusting, such as hand washing and drying after use.


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How To Choose A Knife For Cutting Chicken (Guide)

Knife With Chicken Meat

When it comes to cutting raw chicken, it’s important to have a sharp and sturdy knife that can handle the task. There are several factors to consider when choosing a knife for cutting raw chicken, including blade material, blade shape, and handle design.

1) Blade Material

The blade material of your knife is important because it determines the durability and sharpness of the blade. High-carbon stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen knives because it is both strong and resistant to corrosion. However, other materials such as ceramic or Japanese steel may also be good options depending on your needs.


2) Blade Shape

The shape of the blade will affect the versatility of the knife. A long, thin blade is good for precision cuts, while a wider blade is better for chopping. If you plan on using the knife for a variety of tasks, a Santoku knife or a chef’s knife may be a good choice because they have a versatile blade shape.


3) Handle Design

The handle of the knife should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip. A handle with a full tang, where the blade extends into the handle, will provide better balance and stability. A handle made from a non-slip material such as pakkawood or silicone is also a good option.

It’s also a good idea to consider the overall quality of the knife. Investing in a high-quality knife may be more expensive upfront, but it will likely last longer and perform better in the long run. If you’re looking for a good quality knife set without breaking the bank, you can check out our article on knife sets under $100.


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Things You Should Avoid While Cutting Chicken?

There are several things you should avoid while cutting chicken to ensure safety and proper handling of the meat. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Avoid using a dull knife:

A dull knife can be more dangerous to use because it requires more force to cut through the chicken, increasing the risk of injury. Use a sharp, high-quality knife to make clean cuts and reduce the risk of accidents.

Avoid cross-contamination:

Make sure to thoroughly wash and sanitize your knife, cutting board, and hands after handling raw chicken to prevent the spread of bacteria. This is especially important if you are using the same knife and cutting board for other ingredients.

Avoid cutting through bone:

Some parts of the chicken, such as the breastbone, can be difficult to cut through and may require a more heavy-duty knife. Be careful when cutting through bone as it can be easy to slip and injure yourself.

Avoid leaving raw chicken out at room temperature:

Raw chicken can spoil quickly if left out at room temperature, so it’s important to keep it chilled until you are ready to use it. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze raw chicken immediately after purchasing and bring it to room temperature before cooking.

For more tips on proper handling and sanitation of your knives, be sure to check out our article on when a knife must be cleaned and sanitized. Proper care and maintenance of your knives will not only ensure the safety of your food, but also extend the life of your tools.


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Meat Cleaver Vs. Boning Knife

When it comes to cutting and preparing raw chicken, you may be wondering whether a meat cleaver or a boning knife is the right choice for you. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preference and the specific task you need to complete.


Meat Cleaver

A meat cleaver is a large, heavy knife with a rectangular blade that is used for chopping and separating bones. It is typically made of a sturdy and durable material, such as stainless steel, and has a thick spine and a sharp edge.

Meat cleavers are ideal for tasks such as cutting through chicken bones, splitting large cuts of meat, and separating meat from the bone. They are also great for crushing and mashing ingredients, such as garlic and ginger.

However, meat cleavers can be difficult to control and may not be the best choice for tasks that require more precision, such as filleting or deboning.


Boning Knife

A boning knife, on the other hand, is a thin, flexible knife with a pointed tip and a narrow blade that is used for removing bones from meat. It is typically made of a softer and more flexible material, such as high-carbon stainless steel, and has a sharp and precise edge.

Boning knives are ideal for tasks such as deboning chicken breasts, filleting fish, and removing fat and sinew from cuts of meat.

They are also great for trimming and shaping meats, such as preparing larding or making sausage. However, boning knives can be more prone to dulling and may not be suitable for tasks that require a lot of force, such as chopping through bones.

In short, if you’re looking for a knife to use for cutting chicken, a boning knife is probably the better choice. For tougher tasks such as splitting bones or chopping through thicker cuts of meat, a meat cleaver may be more suitable.

Regardless of which type of knife you choose, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and clean your knife properly after use to prevent the risk of bacterial contamination.


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Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the best knife for cutting raw chicken depends on your personal preference and the specific tasks you will be using it for. A meat cleaver is a heavy, powerful knife that is perfect for chopping through bones and large pieces of meat. A boning knife, on the other hand, is a more precise, thinner knife that is ideal for removing bones and trimming meat.

Both types of knives have their own unique strengths and are useful in different situations. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a knife that feels comfortable and fits your needs. Whether you opt for a meat cleaver or a boning knife, be sure to invest in a high-quality, well-made tool to ensure the best performance and durability.

If you’re still unsure which knife is right for you, consider checking out knife sets from Amazon Basics or other reputable brands to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.


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Frequently Asked Questions


Is a boning knife safe to use?

Boning knives can be safe to use if you handle them properly and follow basic knife safety guidelines. Make sure to grip the handle securely and cut away from your body. Use a cutting board to protect your counter or table surface, and keep the blade sharp to minimize the risk of slipping.


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Which type of knife is best for cutting chicken breast?

A boning knife or a chef’s knife is a good choice for cutting chicken breast. Boning knives have a thin, flexible blades that can easily maneuver around bones, making them ideal for deboning and filleting chicken. Chef’s knives have wider, more versatile blades that can handle a variety of cutting tasks, including slicing through chicken breast.


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Can I use a steak knife for chicken?

While it’s possible to use a steak knife for cutting chicken, it may not be the best choice. Steak knives are typically smaller and have a shorter blade than other types of kitchen knives, which may make them less effective for cutting through thicker cuts of chicken. Additionally, steak knives are often serrated, which can make them more difficult to sharpen and maintain.


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Should you cut chicken breast slits?

Cutting slits into chicken breast can help it cook more evenly and reduce the risk of overcooking. To do this, use a sharp knife to make shallow slits, about 1/4 inch deep, across the surface of the chicken breast. This will allow heat to penetrate more easily and help the chicken cook more evenly.


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What type of knife do professional chefs use for chicken?

Professional chefs often use a variety of knives for cutting chicken, depending on the task at hand. Boning knives, chef’s knives, and poultry shears are among the most common types of knives used for chicken. Some chefs may also use a cleaver for tougher tasks, such as chopping through bones. If you’re looking to upgrade your knife set, consider checking out the Cuisinart knife set, or Calphalon knife set reviews for inspiration.


Shanny not only has an exceptional understanding of the foodie mindset and how nutrition works, she has also achieved her Master’s Degree in Education. Outside of her academic achievements, she loves writing food blogs. It's so much more than a list of meals though! Shanny creates helpful cookware guides and delicious recipes that are easy to follow. She does all of this as a food blog writer because she loves it. That's why she spends lots of time testing out different recipes in her own home. She truly is a one-of-a-kind foodie, from her home to yours - with a story to tell, new recipes to indulge in and new tips to tantalize those tastebuds.

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