How To Cook Lechon Manok In Microwave Oven

Lechon Manok is a delicious Filipino dish that is typically roasted over an open fire or charcoal. However, if you don’t have access to a grill or simply want to try a quick and easy alternative, you can actually cook Lechon Manok in a microwave oven! This method may not produce the same smoky flavor as traditional roasting, but it will definitely result in a moist and flavorful chicken.

Before you start cooking, make sure to choose a good quality chicken. Look for a chicken that is fresh and tender. You can also marinate the chicken prior to cooking to enhance its flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and spices will work wonders. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

To cook the Lechon Manok in the microwave oven, take a microwave-safe dish or a roasting pan that fits inside your microwave. Place the marinated chicken on the dish or pan, breast side up. Cover the dish or pan with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent to allow steam to escape.

Microwave the chicken on medium-high power for about 15 minutes per pound of chicken. For example, if you have a 4-pound chicken, you would microwave it for about 60 minutes. After the designated cooking time, carefully remove the dish or pan from the microwave and check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and tender chicken. Serve the Lechon Manok with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce.

So, the next time you’re craving Lechon Manok but don’t have access to a grill, don’t worry! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in no time, thanks to your microwave oven.

Lechon Manok: A Delicious Dish Cooked in Microwave Oven

Lechon Manok is a popular Filipino dish that is known for its mouth-watering taste and crispy skin. Traditionally, it is cooked by roasting a whole chicken over an open fire. However, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or simply want a quicker cooking method, you can also cook Lechon Manok in a microwave oven.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken
5 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions:

Thoroughly clean the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and sugar to create a marinade.
Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and pour the marinade all over it. Make sure to massage the chicken to evenly distribute the flavors.
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
Microwave the chicken on high for about 15 minutes per pound. Make sure to rotate the dish every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
After the cooking time, use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Lechon Manok hot with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce.

This method of cooking Lechon Manok in a microwave oven may not give you the same charred flavor as traditional roasting, but it still results in a delicious and tender chicken with crispy skin. Give it a try and enjoy this Filipino favorite without the need for a grill!

The History of Lechon Manok

Lechon Manok, also known as Filipino-style roasted chicken, has a long and rich history in the Philippines. It is a popular dish that has become an integral part of Filipino cuisine.

The origins of lechon manok can be traced back to the traditional method of cooking whole pigs over an open fire, known as lechon. This method was introduced by the Spanish during their colonization of the Philippines. The process involved slowly roasting the pig over a charcoal fire, resulting in a crispy skin and tender meat.

Over time, the Filipino people adapted this cooking technique and applied it to chicken, giving birth to lechon manok. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices, such as garlic, lemongrass, and soy sauce, before being roasted over an open flame or in a rotisserie oven.

Lechon manok has since become a staple dish in Filipino households, as well as a popular street food across the country. It is often served with a side of rice and a sauce made from liver, vinegar, and spices.

The Significance of Lechon Manok

Lechon manok holds a special place in Filipino culture and celebrations. It is commonly served during special occasions, such as birthdays, fiestas, and holidays. The dish brings people together and symbolizes unity and togetherness.

Variations of Lechon Manok

While the traditional lechon manok is flavored with a simple marinade, there are also variations of the dish that incorporate different ingredients and flavors. Some cooks add calamansi juice or soda to the marinade for a tangier taste, while others stuff the chicken with lemongrass or onions for added flavor.

Overall, lechon manok remains a beloved dish in the Philippines, cherished for its succulent meat, crispy skin, and rich flavor. It represents a fusion of Spanish and Filipino culinary traditions and continues to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Preparing Lechon Manok in Microwave Oven

If you’re craving for a delicious and juicy lechon manok but don’t have access to a traditional rotisserie or an outdoor grill, you can still enjoy this mouthwatering Filipino dish by using your microwave oven. While it may not give you the same crispy skin as roasting it over an open fire, it can still provide a tender and flavorful result.

Here’s a simple and easy way to prepare lechon manok using your microwave oven:

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (around 1.5 kg)
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
1 tablespoon cooking oil

Instructions:

Clean the whole chicken thoroughly and pat it dry using paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, salt, ground black pepper, soy sauce, calamansi juice, and cooking oil to create a marinade.
Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and pour the marinade all over it. Make sure to massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring that it covers all areas.
Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. Make a small slit or hole in the plastic wrap to allow steam to escape.
Cook the chicken in the microwave oven on medium-high heat for about 15 minutes per pound. For example, if your chicken weighs 1.5 kg, microwave it for around 45 minutes. Make sure to rotate the dish halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
After the microwave cooking, carefully remove the plastic wrap and check if the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. If it’s not yet fully cooked, you can continue microwaving it in 5-minute intervals until the desired doneness is achieved.
Once cooked, let the lechon manok rest for a few minutes before carving it into serving pieces.

This microwave method may not give you the same traditional lechon manok as the authentic roasting methods, but it’s a convenient way to enjoy this popular Filipino dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Serve it with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.

Note: Microwaves vary in wattage, so cooking times may vary. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Lechon Manok

Lechon Manok, or Filipino Roasted Chicken, is a popular dish that is loved for its crispy skin and juicy meat. While traditionally cooked on a spit over an open fire, you can also achieve delicious results using a microwave oven. Here are some tips to ensure that your Lechon Manok is perfectly cooked every time:

1. Choose the right chicken

For the best results, choose a fresh and high-quality chicken. Look for a smaller bird, around 3-4 pounds, as it will cook more evenly and have more tender meat.

2. Marinate for flavor

A good marinade is essential for adding flavor to your Lechon Manok. Traditional marinades often include soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and other spices. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

3. Use a microwave-safe dish

Make sure to use a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to accommodate the chicken and allow for even cooking. A glass or ceramic dish with a lid is best for trapping in the steam and keeping the chicken moist.

4. Cook on a low power setting

To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy, cook it on a low power setting. This will help to prevent the chicken from drying out and becoming tough. Start with a low power setting, around 30% power, and adjust as needed based on your microwave’s wattage.

5. Rotate and baste regularly

During the cooking process, rotate the chicken and baste it with the marinade every 10-15 minutes. This will help to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy and flavorful skin.

Time	Power Setting	Instructions
0-10 minutes	30%	Cook chicken uncovered, rotating and basting every 10 minutes.
10-20 minutes	50%	Cook chicken uncovered, rotating and basting every 10 minutes.
20-30 minutes	70%	Cook chicken uncovered, rotating and basting every 10 minutes.

Serving and Enjoying Lechon Manok

Once your lechon manok is cooked to perfection in the microwave oven, it is time to serve and enjoy this delicious Filipino dish. Here are some tips on how to serve and make the most out of your lechon manok:

1. Carve the chicken: Carefully remove the lechon manok from the microwave oven and place it on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to carve the chicken into desired portions.

2. Serve with dipping sauce: Lechon manok is traditionally served with a dipping sauce to enhance its flavor. One popular option is a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, vinegar, garlic, and chili. You can also serve it with traditional Filipino condiments like toyomansi, atchara, or spiced vinegar.

3. Accompany with sides: Lechon manok pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include steamed rice, pancit, mashed potatoes, or fresh garden salad. The combination of the succulent chicken and the flavorful sides will surely delight your taste buds.

4. Add a touch of herbs: To elevate the flavor of your lechon manok, you can sprinkle it with freshly chopped herbs such as cilantro, spring onions, or parsley before serving. This adds a refreshing taste and vibrant color to the dish.

5. Enjoy with family and friends: Lechon manok is best enjoyed in the company of loved ones. Gather your family and friends around the table and savor the delicious flavors of this traditional Filipino dish. Share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories while enjoying your lechon manok.

Remember, lechon manok is not only a delicious meal but also a symbol of celebration and togetherness in Filipino culture. So indulge in this mouthwatering dish and embrace the warmth and joy it brings to any occasion.

FAQ

Can I cook Lechon Manok in a microwave oven?

Yes, you can cook Lechon Manok in a microwave oven. It is a quick and convenient way to cook this Filipino dish.

What is Lechon Manok?

Lechon Manok is a Filipino dish that is made of a whole chicken marinated in a special sauce and then roasted over an open fire or rotisserie. It is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served with rice and a dipping sauce.

How long does it take to cook Lechon Manok in a microwave oven?

The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken and the wattage of your microwave oven. Generally, it takes about 15-20 minutes per pound of chicken. It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).