Cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to prepare a meal. It’s a great option for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, or for those who want to avoid using the stove or oven.
Chicken can be cooked in the microwave in a variety of ways, including steaming, poaching, or microwaving in a marinade. By following a few simple tips and techniques, you can achieve tender and flavorful chicken in a matter of minutes.
Which kinds of chicken can you cook in microwave?
You can cook various types of chicken in the microwave, including boneless chicken breasts, chicken thighs, chicken tenders, and chicken wings.
However, it’s important to note that cooking bone-in chicken in the microwave may result in uneven cooking and undercooked meat near the bones. It’s also important to make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking in the microwave to ensure even cooking.
Why should you cook chicken in microwave?
Cooking chicken in the microwave can be a quick and convenient option, especially when you don’t have access to an oven or stovetop. It’s also a good option for small portions of chicken, as cooking a large quantity in the microwave may not be practical.
Additionally, cooking chicken in the microwave can help retain moisture and flavor, as the enclosed environment of the microwave can help trap steam and prevent the chicken from drying out.
How to cook chicken in microwave
Here are some methods for cooking chicken in the microwave:
- Steaming: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water or chicken broth. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 4-6 minutes per pound of chicken.
- Poaching: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish with enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 4-6 minutes per pound of chicken.
- Microwaving in a marinade: Combine your preferred marinade ingredients in a microwave-safe dish and add the chicken. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 4-6 minutes per pound of chicken. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow it to absorb the flavors.
When cooking chicken in the microwave, it’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure that it’s fully cooked. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.
To check the temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If the temperature reads below 165°F (74°C), return the chicken to the microwave and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes before checking the temperature again.
Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before cutting into it.
How long does it take to cook chicken in microwave?
The cooking time for chicken in the microwave can vary depending on the type of chicken and the size of the pieces. As a general rule of thumb, you should microwave boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders for 5-8 minutes on high power, depending on their thickness. Chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking times, around 8-10 minutes on high power.
However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Tips for cooking chicken in microwave
Here are some tips to help you cook chicken in the microwave:
- Use a microwave-safe dish: Make sure the dish you’re using to cook the chicken is microwave-safe and won’t crack or break under high temperatures.
- Cut the chicken into even pieces: To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken into evenly-sized pieces.
- Season the chicken: Add your favorite seasonings and marinades to the chicken before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Cover the dish: Cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to help trap steam and prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking: If you’re cooking boneless chicken breasts or tenders, flip them over halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
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