How to Cook Chicken in Microwave Oven: Quick Tips for Juicy and Tender Results

Ever found yourself in a rush with no time to cook a full meal? You’re not alone. Many of us have busy days that leave little room for lengthy cooking sessions. Luckily, cooking chicken in the microwave can be a game-changer, giving you a delicious meal in a fraction of the time.

With just a few simple steps, you can whip up juicy, tender chicken that’s ready to be enjoyed. This article will guide you through the process, sharing tips and tricks to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or just looking to save time, you’ll find it’s easier than you think to make a tasty chicken dish in your microwave.

Understanding The Basics Of Cooking Chicken In Microwave Oven

Cooking chicken in a microwave oven offers a quick and straightforward method to prepare flavorful meals. By grasping the essential techniques, you can achieve juicy chicken effortlessly.

Benefits Of Microwave Cooking

• Speed: Cooking chicken in the microwave significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods. Most chicken cuts cook in 10-15 minutes.
• Energy Efficiency: Microwaves consume less energy than conventional ovens, making them more cost-effective for quick meals.
• Retention of Nutrients: Microwaving often retains more nutrients than boiling or frying. Short cooking times prevent nutrient loss.
• Less Mess: Fewer pots and pans mean less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive dishwashing.

• Defrosting: Use the defrost setting for frozen chicken. Place it in a microwave-safe dish to catch any juices. This helps in even cooking later.
• Covering: Cover chicken with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to lock in moisture. This prevents drying out and promotes even cooking.
• Use of Microwave-Safe Dishes: Choose dishes labeled microwave-safe to avoid harmful chemicals leaching into your food. Glass or ceramic containers work well.
• Cooking Time Management: Set shorter cooking intervals (3-5 minutes), checking for doneness after each interval. This helps ensure the chicken stays tender.
• Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after microwaving. This allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and texture.

By understanding these basics, you set yourself up for success in cooking chicken quickly and easily in the microwave.

Preparing The Chicken

Preparing chicken for the microwave involves a few simple steps to ensure delicious results.

Choosing The Right Cut

Select cuts that are appropriate for microwave cooking. Chicken breasts are a popular choice due to their quick cooking time and tenderness. Thighs offer more flavor and moisture but may require slightly longer cooking. Avoid bone-in pieces, as they cook unevenly in the microwave. Skinless, boneless chicken works best for uniform cooking.

Marinating Tips

Marinate your chicken to enhance flavor and moisture. Use simple marinades with ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and herbs. Aim for a marinating time of at least 30 minutes, but several hours or overnight provides better flavor absorption. When marinating, cover the chicken in a microwave-safe dish or a resealable bag. This method locks in the flavors and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking.

Cooking Methods For Chicken In Microwave

Cooking chicken in a microwave involves various methods suited for different cuts and preferences. Each method ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

Whole Chicken Cooking Guide

For cooking a whole chicken in the microwave, follow these steps:

1. Preparation: Remove giblets and rinse the chicken. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning: Rub the chicken inside and out with your chosen spices or marinade for flavor.
3. Placement: Place the chicken breast-side up in a microwave-safe dish. Use a covered dish to retain moisture.
4. Cooking Time: Cook on medium power for roughly 10 minutes per pound. For instance, a 4-pound chicken requires about 40 minutes.
5. Rotation: Rotate the dish halfway through cooking for even heat distribution.
6. Check Doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Resting: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Chicken Pieces Cooking Guide

Cooking chicken pieces in the microwave differs slightly from cooking a whole chicken. Here’s how to achieve great results:

1. Preparation: Use skinless, boneless pieces for optimal cooking. Cut larger pieces, like breasts, into smaller sections to cook evenly.
2. Seasoning: Marinate or season the chicken pieces according to your taste. Let them sit for at least 15-30 minutes.
3. Placement: Arrange the pieces in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish to keep moisture in.
4. Cooking Time: Cook on medium-high power for 6-8 minutes per pound. For example, 1 pound of chicken pieces typically takes about 6-8 minutes.
5. Intermittent Stirring: Stir or flip the pieces halfway through to ensure uniform cooking.
6. Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to enhance juiciness.

Use these methods to enjoy quick and delicious chicken meals. Adjust cooking times based on your microwave’s wattage and size of chicken pieces for best results.

Timing And Temperature Guidelines

Cooking chicken in a microwave requires precise timing and temperature settings to achieve juicy and tender results. Following these guidelines ensures consistent and delicious meals.

Recommended Cooking Times

• Boneless Chicken Breasts: Cook for 4 to 6 minutes per pound. If cooking a single breast, 6 to 8 minutes may suffice, depending on your microwave’s wattage.
• Bone-in Chicken Pieces: Cook for 10 to 12 minutes per pound. Rotate pieces halfway through for even cooking.
• Whole Chicken: Cook for 7 to 9 minutes per pound. A 4-pound chicken typically takes about 30 minutes.
• Check doneness: Use a food thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• High Power (100%): Use this setting for most chicken cooking. It offers a balanced approach, ensuring thorough cooking while retaining moisture.
• Medium Power (50%): Ideal for larger cuts like whole chickens. This allows more even cooking while reducing the risk of drying out.
• Defrosting Setting: Use for frozen chicken. Allow approximately 3 to 5 minutes per pound, checking regularly to ensure the chicken doesn’t start cooking.

Microwave features can vary, so adjusting times based on your specific model ensures the best results.

Tips For Best Results

Follow these tips to achieve tender and juicy microwave-cooked chicken.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t skip defrosting: Ensure chicken is fully defrosted before cooking. Microwaving frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
• Avoid overcooking: Check the chicken at regular intervals to prevent it from drying out. Start with shorter cooking times and adjust as needed.
• Don’t forget the cover: Use a microwave-safe cover or wrap to retain moisture. Avoid using plastic wrap that isn’t labeled microwave-safe.
• Skip the thick marinades: Thin marinades penetrate the chicken better. Use light marinades for flavor without excess moisture that may affect cooking.

• Arrange evenly: Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the dish. This allows microwaves to cook the chicken evenly on all sides.
• Rotate periodically: If cooking a whole chicken, rotate the dish halfway through. Rotating helps ensure even heat distribution.
• Flip thicker pieces: For thicker cuts, flip them halfway through the cooking process. This promotes uniform cooking and prevents cold spots.
• Use a food thermometer: Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Using these tips guarantees a hassle-free cooking experience, resulting in flavorful chicken every time.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken in the microwave can truly transform your meal prep routine. With just a few simple steps you can enjoy juicy and flavorful chicken without spending hours in the kitchen.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different marinades and cooking methods to find what you love most. Remember to keep an eye on cooking times and always check for doneness to ensure your meal is safe and delicious.

With a little practice you’ll master the art of microwave cooking and impress yourself with the results. Enjoy your quick and tasty meals and make the most of your time in the kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of cooking chicken in the microwave?

Cooking chicken in the microwave is fast and energy-efficient. It allows for better nutrient retention and reduces mess compared to traditional methods. This makes it an ideal solution for busy individuals looking to enjoy a full meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

How do I prepare chicken for microwave cooking?

Start by selecting skinless, boneless cuts of chicken for the quickest results. Marinate the chicken in a microwave-safe dish or resealable bag to enhance flavor. Cover it during marination to lock in moisture. Ensure to defrost if frozen and avoid large, bone-in pieces for even cooking.

What are the cooking times for chicken in the microwave?

Cooking times vary based on the cut and weight of the chicken. For boneless chicken breasts, cook for about 6-8 minutes per pound on high power. Whole chickens require more time, usually around 10-12 minutes per pound. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How do I ensure my chicken cooks evenly in the microwave?

Arrange the chicken in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish. Rotate the dish halfway through cooking, and flip thicker pieces to promote even heating. Using a food thermometer helps ensure that all pieces reach the proper internal temperature for safe eating.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking chicken in the microwave?

Common mistakes include skipping the defrosting step, overcooking, and using thick marinades that can prevent even cooking. Always check the chicken’s temperature with a thermometer and avoid crowding the dish to ensure every piece cooks properly.