Juicy Chicken Breast: 3 Ways to Cook with Kalmes 2-in-1

Three Ways to Cook Chicken Breast Without Drying It Out

Chicken breast cooks quickly, which makes it easy to overdo. Even thickness and a thermometer are the real keys to a juicy result. Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 Steak Seasoning & Meat Tenderizer adds savory flavor and a built-in papain tenderizer in one step.

The Kalmes family food tradition is rooted in Kalmes Restaurant, founded in 1956 in St. Donatus, Iowa. The seasoning began being bottled in 2012.

Before You Cook

1. Even out thick breasts: Lightly pound the thick end so each piece cooks more uniformly.
2. Pat dry and season: Apply Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 evenly, following the package guidance for amount. Papain acts where the seasoning contacts the chicken; it does not instantly tenderize the center.
3. Rest safely: Allow about 15–30 minutes for seasoning to sit. Keep chicken covered in the refrigerator during longer rests and avoid leaving it out for extended periods.

Method 1: Grill

Preheat a clean grill to medium-high. Cook chicken over the heat, turning as needed for even browning. Check the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer and cook to 165°F. Thickness and grill temperature determine the time, so do not rely on a fixed number of minutes per side.

Method 2: Pan-Sear

Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides and the thickest part reaches 165°F. If the outside browns before the middle cooks, lower the heat and continue cooking. Add a splash of broth to the pan afterward for a simple sauce.

Method 3: Bake

Arrange chicken in a baking dish with space between pieces and bake at 400°F. Start checking with a thermometer before you expect it to be done; remove when the thickest part reaches 165°F. Oven time varies widely with breast size and thickness.

Finish and Serve

Let cooked chicken rest briefly, then slice and serve with roasted potatoes, rice, or a salad. For meal prep, cool and refrigerate promptly. A longer seasoning rest does not guarantee a juicier chicken breast; avoiding overcooking matters most.

Ready to try it? Shop Kalmes Famous 2-in-1 Steak Seasoning & Meat Tenderizer.