Jake Harper
Sheet pans are a versatile kitchen essential, perfect for baking, roasting, and cooking a variety of dishes. They are typically made of heat-conductive metals like aluminum and stainless steel, with rimmed edges to prevent food from sliding off. When it comes to choosing the right sheet pan for cooking chicken or burgers, there are several options to consider. Some prefer using stainless steel or aluminum pans, while others opt for non-stick ceramic-coated pans like the Caraway sheet pan, which offers easy cleaning but requires careful handling. The Hestan half-sheet pan, with its aluminum core, provides even heat conduction and is a sturdy option. For those seeking convenience, the All-Clad Nonstick Pro Release Half-Sheet offers a nonstick ceramic-reinforced finish, although it may not be ideal for baking cookies due to potential staining. Ultimately, the choice of sheet pan depends on personal preferences and specific cooking needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminium, stainless steel, ceramic-coated |
| Coating | Non-stick, ceramic-reinforced, PFOA-free |
| Size | 18 x 13 inches, 13 x 9 inches, 9 x 6.5 inches |
| Shape | Flat, rectangular |
| Edges | Rimmed, about 1 inch high |
| Oven temperature | Up to 600°F |
| Ease of cleaning | Easy to clean, dishwasher safe |
| Uses | Baking, roasting, grilling |
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What You'll Learn
Rimmed vs. rimless
When it comes to baking sheets, there are two main types: rimmed and rimless. Both have their advantages and are suited to different tasks.
Rimmed baking sheets, also known as half-sheet pans, are versatile and widely used in both home and professional kitchens. They are perfect for items that rise during baking, such as cakes, Swiss rolls, and sponge cakes, as the rim prevents spills and keeps the baked goods secure. They are also ideal for baking items with high moisture content, such as juicy fruits, as they prevent messes in the oven. Additionally, the rim provides a secure grip when removing hot items from the oven. Reinforced rolled edges on rimmed baking sheets help prevent warping and buckling caused by drastic temperature changes. They are also excellent for roasting meats and vegetables, as they contain juices, oils, and marinades, minimizing smoke.
On the other hand, rimless baking sheets, also known as cookie sheets or flat baking pans, are designed for even heat distribution, making them perfect for baking cookies. They allow for more air circulation, decreasing cooking times and promoting all-over browning. Rimless sheets are also ideal for achieving a crispier crust on items like pizza. Additionally, they are designed for easily sliding cookies onto a cooling rack, making them a convenient choice for serious bakers.
When choosing between a rimmed or rimless baking sheet, consider your specific cooking goals. If you are primarily baking cookies or seeking a versatile pan for various purposes, a rimless sheet may be preferable. However, if you are roasting meats or baking items with high moisture content, a rimmed sheet will be more suitable to prevent spills and contain juices.
For baking chicken or burgers, a rimmed baking sheet is recommended. It will help contain the juices and oils during the cooking process, minimize smoke, and make it easier to handle the pan when removing it from the oven. Additionally, look for a baking sheet with a non-toxic non-stick coating, such as ceramic non-stick or reinforced rolled rims, to ensure easy cleanup.
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Aluminium
When cooking chicken in an aluminium pan, it is important to ensure the pan is greased to prevent the chicken from sticking. This is because aluminium can hold more heat than other pans, so the risk of sticking is greater. Blot the chicken with a paper towel to remove excess water, then season with salt and pepper. Grease the pan with oil, add the chicken, and cook for around 40 minutes at 400 degrees F, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
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Non-stick coatings
One example of a ceramic non-stick coating is the Caraway sheet pan, which has a slick surface that makes cleaning a breeze. Charred chicken fat and cooked-on bits of vegetables come right off with a pot scraper or dish scrubby and hot, soapy water. However, ceramic nonstick cookware has some drawbacks. The Caraway sheet pan, for instance, should never be put in the dishwasher, cannot be used with metal utensils, and requires extra care to prolong its lifespan.
Another option for a non-stick coating is the All-Clad Nonstick Pro Release Half-Sheet, which has a PFOA-free ceramic-reinforced nonstick finish. This pan performed well in tests, although the gray coating showed some minimal staining after the first use.
It's important to note that when using a wire rack with a sheet pan, it's recommended to use an uncoated baking sheet. A metal rack on top of a ceramic-coated nonstick baking sheet in a hot oven could potentially damage the baking sheet.
Additionally, stainless steel sheet pans, such as the Hestan half-sheet pan, are an option for those seeking an uncoated sheet pan. While stainless steel has less thermal conductivity than aluminum, the Hestan pan utilizes an aluminum core to promote even heat conduction. It can also withstand temperatures up to 600°F, which is higher than most other sheet pans on the market. However, this pan comes at a high price, which may be a deterrent for those who view sheet pans as utilitarian items.
In conclusion, non-stick coatings can be a great feature for sheet pans used for dinners, as they make cleaning easier. However, for baking cookies, a non-stick coating may not be ideal as it can affect the texture and spread of the cookies. When using wire racks, it's best to opt for uncoated sheet pans to avoid potential damage. For those seeking an uncoated option, stainless steel pans like the Hestan pan offer even heat conduction and high temperature tolerance but come at a higher price point.
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Stainless steel
Misen's stainless steel roasting pan is a good option for those looking for a stainless steel baking sheet. It has slightly higher sides and handles, which make it a great option for roasting chicken or other foods that release a lot of fat, like bacon. The sides allow more food to sit inside at a time and catch all the drippings and juices. The handles also make it easier to manoeuvre than a traditional sheet pan.
Another option for a stainless steel baking sheet is the Hestan OvenBond half-sheet pan. This pan is made with tri-ply construction, similar to quality stainless-steel cookware. It is non-reactive, easy to clean, and performs well in baking tests. The Hestan OvenBond half-sheet pan can withstand temperatures up to 600°F, which is higher than most other sheet pans on the market. However, it is important to note that this pan is quite expensive, costing around $130.
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Size
When it comes to size, there are a few options for baking sheet pans that can be used for chicken or burgers. The standard sheet pan, also known as a half-sheet pan, typically measures 18 x 13 inches and fits most residential ovens. If you're using an oven rack, make sure the sheet pan fits inside with some space around the edges for airflow.
For smaller portions or toaster ovens, a quarter sheet pan measuring 13 x 9 inches is ideal. You can also use two quarter sheets side-by-side in the oven to keep ingredients separate, which can be useful when cooking for different dietary needs or preferences. An 8 x 6.5-inch eighth sheet pan is perfect for reheating pizza or roasting small amounts of vegetables or nuts.
When cooking burgers, the size of the pan will depend on the number of burgers you want to make. A 10 x 15-inch sheet pan is commonly used to make 8 to 10 burgers at once. If you're making a smaller batch, an 8 x 8-inch pan is more suitable.
Additionally, consider the size of your oven and the amount of food you plan to cook. You may need a larger sheet pan if you're cooking for a crowd or have a bigger oven. Conversely, a smaller sheet pan might be better if you have limited oven space or prefer to cook in batches.
Finally, the thickness of the sheet pan can also vary. While most sheet pans are designed with rimmed edges to prevent food from sliding off, the height of these rims can differ. Taller rims can accommodate more volume, while shorter rims might be better for dishes where you want the edges to get crispy, like cookies or bacon.
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Frequently asked questions
A sheet pan, also known as a baking sheet or baking tray, is a flat, rectangular pan made of a heat-conductive metal, typically aluminium. They are designed with rimmed edges to prevent food from sliding out.
Sheet pans are versatile and can be used to roast, bake, or reheat food. They are easy to clean, especially when lined with aluminium foil. They are also convenient for cooking large batches of food at once, such as burgers or chicken thighs.
Hestan's half-sheet pan is a high-performing and luxurious option, with a stainless steel construction and an aluminium core for even heat conduction. It can withstand temperatures up to 600°F. Another option is the All-Clad Nonstick Pro Release Half-Sheet, which has a ceramic-reinforced nonstick finish.
The standard size of a sheet pan is 18 x 13 inches, which fits most residential ovens. However, for chicken or burgers, a smaller size may be preferable. A quarter sheet pan, measuring 13 x 9 inches, can be useful for roasting smaller amounts of food.
While nonstick sheet pans can be convenient for baking, they may not be suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as broiling. Uncoated baking sheets are recommended for deep-frying and placing directly on oven racks.
