Are you craving some delicious grilled chicken but don’t have access to a grill? Don’t worry! With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty microwave oven, you can make mouthwatering grilled chicken right in the comfort of your own home. In this step-by-step video tutorial, we will show you exactly how to achieve that perfect grilled flavor using your microwave oven.
Before we get started, it’s important to note that while this method may not replicate the exact taste and texture of traditional grilled chicken, it is a quick and convenient alternative that still yields fantastic results. So let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Step 1: Season the chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a generous amount of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken to ensure maximum flavor.
Step 2: Drizzle with olive oil
Next, drizzle some olive oil onto the seasoned chicken breasts. This will help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out in the microwave oven.
Step 3: Microwave on high
Place the chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high heat for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Let it rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the microwave oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure that the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy!
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes or use it as a filling for sandwiches and salads. You’ll be amazed at the delicious flavor and moist texture that you can achieve using just your microwave oven.
So why wait? Watch the video tutorial below to see the entire process in action and start making your own mouthwatering grilled chicken in the microwave oven today!
Prepare Ingredients for Grilled Chicken
Before you can start grilling chicken in the microwave oven, it’s important to have all the necessary ingredients prepared and ready to go. Here are the ingredients you will need:
Ingredients:
Chicken pieces | – Make sure to have fresh chicken pieces of your choice, such as breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. You can use bone-in or boneless chicken, depending on your preference. |
Marinade | – Prepare a marinade of your choice to give flavor to the chicken. Some popular options include a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices. |
Salt and pepper | – These basic seasonings are essential to enhance the taste of the chicken. |
Vegetable oil | – This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the microwave-safe dish while grilling. |
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can proceed to marinating the chicken and then move on to grilling it in the microwave oven. Remember to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a delicious and properly cooked grilled chicken.
Choose Chicken Pieces and Seasonings
Select the chicken pieces for grilling in the microwave oven. You can choose chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings, depending on your preference. Make sure the chicken is fresh and does not have any discoloration or foul odor. If using chicken breasts, you may want to trim off any excess fat.
Next, prepare the seasonings for the chicken. You can use a variety of spices and herbs to enhance the flavor. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Feel free to experiment and adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
If you like your grilled chicken with a little kick, you can also add some chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Once you have chosen the chicken pieces and prepared the seasonings, it’s time to move on to the next step of grilling the chicken in the microwave oven.
Marinate the Chicken
Before grilling the chicken in the microwave oven, it is important to marinate it to enhance its flavor and juiciness. Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious seasonings.
To marinate the chicken, start by choosing your marinade ingredients. This can include a combination of oil, vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, herbs, and spices. You can customize the marinade according to your taste preferences.
In a large bowl, combine the marinade ingredients and mix well. Place the chicken pieces into the bowl, making sure they are fully coated with the marinade. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
While marinating, it’s a good idea to cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the chicken in a ziplock bag to prevent any leaks or contamination. Make sure to keep the chicken refrigerated during the marinating process.
Once the chicken has marinated, it is ready to be grilled in the microwave oven. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. The chicken is now prepared to be grilled to perfection!
Note: Marinating times may vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. Be sure to follow the specific marinating instructions provided in your chosen recipe.
Cooking the Grilled Chicken in the Microwave Oven
Microwave ovens can be a convenient and quick way to cook grilled chicken at home. While it may not provide the same flavor and texture as grilling on a barbecue, it can still result in a delicious meal. Here are some simple steps to follow when cooking grilled chicken in the microwave oven:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices. This could include a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other seasonings you prefer.
2. Use a Microwave-Safe Dish
Place the seasoned chicken in a microwave-safe dish. It’s important to use a dish that is safe to use in the microwave to avoid any accidents or damage to your oven.
3. Add Liquid
To prevent the chicken from drying out while it cooks, add a small amount of liquid to the dish. This could be chicken broth, water, or even some lemon juice for added flavor.
4. Cover the Dish
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help to retain the moisture and cook the chicken evenly.
5. Cook on High
Place the covered dish in the microwave oven and cook on high for approximately 5-7 minutes per pound of chicken. Use the microwave’s recommended cooking times as a guide, and be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
6. Rest and Serve
After the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help to lock in the juices and ensure the chicken is tender and juicy. Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or a salad.
While using a microwave oven may not be the traditional way to cook grilled chicken, it can still result in a flavorful and convenient meal. Just remember to follow these steps and adjust the cooking times as needed based on the wattage of your microwave oven. Enjoy your homemade grilled chicken!
Preheat the Microwave Oven
To begin making grilled chicken in the microwave oven, you need to preheat the device. This step ensures that the oven reaches the appropriate temperature for cooking the chicken.
Follow these steps to preheat your microwave oven:
- Place a microwave-safe plate or dish inside the oven.
- Close the oven door securely.
- Set the microwave timer to 5 minutes.
- Press the start button to initiate the preheating process.
Preheating the microwave oven allows it to heat up and create a suitable environment for cooking the chicken. Make sure to follow your microwave oven’s specific instructions for preheating, as some models may have different settings or requirements.
Tips for Preheating the Microwave Oven:
Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you preheat the microwave oven correctly:
- Ensure the plate or dish you are using is microwave-safe to prevent any accidents or damage.
- Make sure the oven door is securely closed during the preheating process to maintain the desired temperature.
- Monitor the time and temperature settings on your microwave oven to ensure accurate preheating.
By preheating the microwave oven properly, you set the stage for cooking delicious grilled chicken. Once the oven is preheated, you can move on to the next steps to prepare and cook the chicken.
Place the Chicken in the Microwave
Once you have seasoned the chicken and prepared it for cooking, it’s time to place it in the microwave. Take a microwave-safe dish and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Make sure there is enough space between the pieces so that they cook evenly.
It’s important to cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help the chicken retain moisture and prevent any splattering inside the microwave. If you don’t have a microwave-safe lid, you can use a microwave-safe plate to cover the dish.
Place the dish with the chicken in the center of the microwave and close the door. Set the cooking time based on the weight and thickness of the chicken pieces. Remember to follow the instructions provided in the recipe or the packaging for the recommended cooking time.
When setting the cooking time, it’s better to start with a shorter time and check the chicken’s doneness before adding more cooking time. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out or becoming overcooked.
Once the chicken is in the microwave and the cooking time is set, press the start button to begin cooking. As the chicken cooks, make sure to check on it occasionally to ensure it is cooking evenly. You may need to rotate the dish halfway through cooking to promote even cooking.
Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave as it will be hot. Use oven mitts or a towel to handle the dish and avoid any burns. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become tender and flavorful.
Cook the Chicken
1. Place the marinated chicken pieces on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to trap the steam.
3. Cook the chicken on high power for about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
5. If the chicken is not fully cooked, continue cooking in 1-minute increments until the desired temperature is reached.
6. Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve the grilled chicken hot with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Serve and Enjoy
Once your grilled chicken is cooked to perfection in the microwave oven, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying meal:
1. Plating the Grilled Chicken
Carefully remove the hot dish of grilled chicken from the microwave oven using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves. Place the grilled chicken onto serving plates or a large platter.
Tip: Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to handle the chicken and prevent any burns or accidents.
2. Garnishing and Seasoning
Now it’s time to enhance the flavor and presentation of your grilled chicken. Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil over the chicken to add a burst of freshness.
Pro tip: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken to add a tangy and citrusy flavor.
Season the grilled chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper according to your taste preference. You can also add some additional seasonings or sauces like garlic powder, paprika, or barbecue sauce if desired.
3. Accompaniments and Side Dishes
Grilled chicken in the microwave oven pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving your grilled chicken with:
- Steamed vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Coleslaw
- Salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
Pro tip: You can also slice the grilled chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Remember to choose sides that complement the flavors of the grilled chicken and create a well-balanced meal.
4. Dig In and Enjoy!
Once you have plated the grilled chicken and prepared your sides, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your delicious creation. Take a moment to appreciate the flavorful and juicy chicken you have cooked in the microwave oven.
Savor each bite and savor the satisfaction of having made a tasty grilled chicken dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Now you can confidently serve and enjoy your grilled chicken, sharing it with family and friends or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal!
FAQ
Can I really make grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
Yes, you can make grilled chicken in a microwave oven. It may not have the same charred taste as traditional grilled chicken, but it can still be tasty and convenient to prepare.
How long does it take to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
The cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, but on average, it takes about 12-15 minutes to cook grilled chicken in a microwave oven.
What ingredients do I need to make grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
You will need chicken pieces, marinade or seasoning of your choice, oil or cooking spray, and any additional spices or herbs you prefer.
What are the steps to make grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
The steps to make grilled chicken in a microwave oven are: 1) Marinate the chicken pieces for 30 minutes to an hour. 2) Preheat the microwave oven to high power. 3) Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, and brush it with oil or cooking spray. 4) Cook the chicken, uncovered, for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 5) Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
What cooking techniques can I use to make grilled chicken in a microwave oven?
There are a few cooking techniques you can use to make grilled chicken in a microwave oven, such as marinating the chicken, using a microwave-safe dish, and brushing the chicken with oil or cooking spray to help it brown. You can also add additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.