Recipe - main courses meat

How to Cook a Duck Breast

A perfectly seared Pekin duck breast is a sublime dining experience, fit for Sunday night dinner or any special occasion. Cooking duck is easier than you may think. Mastering the following basic techniques will ensure deliciously crispy skin and juicy, tender meat every time. Courtesy Culver Farms.

Ingredients

2 to 4 duck breasts, skin on
Salt, pepper or other seasoning of choice
No oil is needed, the duck will release plenty of fat
  1. Lightly score skin diagonally, making cuts 1/4 inch apart in both directions, creating a diamond pattern.
  2. Place duck breast in a cold cast iron pan or heavy non-stick skillet, skin-side down, turn heat to medium and cook 10 minutes.
  3. Turn and cook another 6 to 8 minutes on the other side, or to desired doneness.
  4. Pull the breast off the heat source and lay on cutting board. Use a thermometer and check internal temperature* to hit 153-155°F. Let the breast sit for another 5 minutes.
  5. Then slice the breast into pieces and serve over your favorite dish. Enjoy!