Olivia Carter
Grilled chicken is a popular and delicious dish that is often cooked on a barbecue or grill. However, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or simply prefer to cook indoors, you can still enjoy the flavors and textures of grilled chicken by using your microwave oven.
Using a microwave oven to cook grilled chicken may seem unconventional, but it can be a quick and convenient way to prepare this dish. With the right technique and a few tips, you can achieve juicy and flavorful grilled chicken that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
When cooking grilled chicken in a microwave oven, it’s important to marinate the chicken beforehand to infuse it with flavor and tenderize the meat. You can use a pre-made marinade or create your own using a combination of herbs, spices, and liquids such as soy sauce, lemon juice, or vinegar.
Cooking Grilled Chicken in Microwave Oven
Grilled chicken is a popular and delicious dish that can be prepared using different cooking methods, including the microwave oven. Cooking grilled chicken in a microwave oven is a quick and convenient option for those who want to enjoy this tasty dish without using an outdoor grill or stove.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven:
- Choose boneless and skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for grilling in the microwave oven. These cuts of chicken are more suitable for this cooking method as they are easy to cook and retain moisture.
- Season the chicken with your preferred marinade or spices. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices that you like.
- Place the seasoned chicken pieces on a microwave-safe dish or plate. Make sure to leave enough space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe plastic wrap or microwave-safe lid. This will help to retain moisture and prevent splattering during cooking.
- Set the microwave oven on high power and cook the chicken for around 5-7 minutes per side. If you are using thicker chicken pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, you can cook chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side.
- After cooking, remove the dish from the microwave oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the chicken moist and tender.
- Double-check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked.
- Serve the grilled chicken hot with your favorite side dishes or sauces. Grilled chicken goes well with salads, rice, vegetables, or bread rolls.
Cooking grilled chicken in a microwave oven is a convenient way to enjoy this dish, especially when you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a tasty and flavorful grilled chicken in no time!
Preparation and Seasoning
Before cooking grilled chicken in a microwave oven, it is important to properly prepare and season the chicken to ensure a flavorful and succulent result.
Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Next, season the chicken with a combination of spices to enhance its taste. Some popular seasonings for grilled chicken include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavor. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat.
Before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the chicken cook more evenly.
Now that the chicken is properly seasoned and prepared, it is ready to be cooked in the microwave oven using the appropriate cooking settings and techniques.
Cooking Process
To cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Next, season the chicken with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own using ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken with the seasoning.
Step 2: Microwave Cooking
Place the seasoned chicken on a microwave-safe plate or dish. Cover it loosely with a microwave cover or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help retain moisture and prevent splattering. Microwave the chicken on high power for about 5 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 1-pound chicken breast, microwave it for approximately 5 minutes.
Step 3: Check the Temperature
After microwaving, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The thickest part of the meat should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. If the chicken hasn’t reached the desired temperature, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until it does.
Step 4: Let it Rest
Once the chicken reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
| Weight | Cooking Time (per pound) |
|---|---|
| 1 pound | 5 minutes |
| 2 pounds | 10 minutes |
| 3 pounds | 15 minutes |
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave oven, so it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Once the chicken has rested, it is ready to be served. You can enjoy it as is or use it in various recipes like salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Grilled chicken cooked in the microwave oven is quick, easy, and a healthier alternative to traditional grilling methods.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you cook delicious grilled chicken in your microwave oven:
1. Choose the right cut of chicken:
For grilling chicken in the microwave, it is best to choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They cook more evenly and quickly compared to chicken with bones and skin.
2. Marinate the chicken:
Marinating the chicken before cooking adds flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper or experiment with different marinades to suit your taste.
3. Preheat your microwave:
Just like preheating an oven, it’s important to preheat your microwave before grilling chicken. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and efficiently.
4. Use a microwave-safe grill pan or dish:
Make sure to use a microwave-safe grill pan or dish to grill your chicken. These pans are specially designed to withstand microwave heat and provide the necessary grill marks on the chicken.
5. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking:
To ensure that both sides of the chicken are cooked evenly, flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process. This will help to prevent one side from becoming overcooked or undercooked.
6. Check the internal temperature:
It’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure that it is fully cooked. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest before serving:
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
By following these tips and tricks, you can easily cook grilled chicken in your microwave oven with great results. Enjoy!
Serving and Enjoying
Once your grilled chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are a few tips to make the most of your delicious creation:
1. Presentation is key
Transfer the chicken onto a serving platter and garnish it with some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This will not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall visual appeal.
2. Pair it with sides
Grilled chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of mashed potatoes. These sides will complement the flavors of the chicken and provide a well-rounded meal.
3. Make a sauce or marinade
Enhance the flavor of your grilled chicken by serving it with a homemade sauce or marinade. You can make a simple garlic butter sauce, a tangy barbecue sauce, or a zesty lemon herb marinade. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
4. Enjoy with family and friends
Grilled chicken is best enjoyed in the company of loved ones. Gather your family and friends around the table and savor the delicious flavors together. The shared experience will make the meal even more enjoyable.
| Grilled Chicken Recipe in Microwave Oven | |
| Preparation Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Serves: | 2 |
Now that you know how to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven, it’s time to put your new skills to the test. Follow the recipe, serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the deliciousness. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Is it possible to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
Yes, it is possible to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven. While it may not give you the exact same result as grilling on a traditional grill, it can still produce juicy and flavorful chicken.
How long does it take to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
The cooking time for grilled chicken in a microwave oven can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. On average, it can take anywhere from 8 to 12 minutes to cook two chicken breasts. It is important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
What is the best way to season grilled chicken cooked in a microwave oven?
There are many ways to season grilled chicken cooked in a microwave oven. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, you can use a dry rub of spices like paprika, cumin, onion powder, and chili powder. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
