Can You Cook Chicken In The Microwave? (Detailed Answer)

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Can You Cook Chicken In The Microwave? Guide & Tips

If you’re like most people, you probably have a go-to method for cooking chicken. But what if we told you that there’s another way to cook chicken that’s just as delicious and maybe even easier? 


Microwave cooking is a convenient way to cook food without heating up the entire kitchen. But can you cook chicken in the microwave? The answer is Yes – Cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy meal but there are a few things you need to know to make sure your chicken comes out cooked through.


In this guide, we will discuss how to cook chicken in the microwave and provide some tips to make it a success. Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and easy option. Implement these tips and you’ll have juicy, tender chicken every time! So, let’s get started!

Can You Cook Chicken In The Microwave?

The short answer is yes, you can cook chicken in the microwave. In fact, it’s a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy meal. But there are a few things you need to know to make sure your chicken comes out cooked through.

If you’re cooking for yourself or your family, cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and easy option. Implement these tips and you’ll have juicy, tender chicken every time!

Now you know the answer to the question Can you cook chicken in the microwave, but How to do it properly? So, let’s get started!



How To Cook Chicken In The Microwave

Cooking chicken in the microwave is a convenient way to get a healthy meal on the table quickly. But there are a few things you need to know to make sure your chicken comes out cooked through.

Steps on How to cook chicken in the microwave

The first step is to choose the right type of chicken.


  • Thin cuts of chicken, such as boneless, skinless breasts or tenders, work best in the microwave.
  • Thicker cuts of chicken, such as bone-in breasts or thighs, may take a little longer to cook and are not recommended for microwaves.

Once you have chosen your chicken, it’s time to prep it for cooking.

Remove any visible fat and trim off any excess skin. If you are using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.


The next step is to choose a cooking container.

A microwave-safe dish or plate is ideal. If you are using a marinade or sauce, be sure to put it in a separate container so that the chicken doesn’t soak up the moisture and become soggy.

Now it’s time to cook your chicken!



Place the chicken in the center of the cooking container and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. If your chicken is thick, you may need to cook it for a little longer. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it has reached 165 degrees F.

There are a few different ways to cook chicken in the microwave, but we will focus on 3 methods: using a dish or using plastic wrap, using a rack.

Cooking Chicken In A Microwave-safe Dish

Cooking chicken in a microwave-safe dish is the easiest way to do it. If you are using a dish, make sure it is microwave-safe.

Place the chicken in the dish and add any desired seasonings. Then, cover the dish with plastic wrap. Make sure to poke a few holes in the plastic so that the steam can escape.

And cook it on high for 4-5 minutes per pound. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Chicken In Plastic Wrap

If you are cooking the chicken in plastic wrap, start by placing the chicken in a large piece of plastic wrap. Add any desired seasonings and then tightly wrap the chicken up.

Make sure to poke a few holes in the plastic so that the steam can escape.

Cooking Chicken On A Rack

If you want to cook your chicken on a rack, first place the rack in a large microwavable bowl.

Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then place it on the rack. Cook it on high for 6-8 minutes per pound. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

These methods are simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps and your chicken will be cooked through in no time!

Now that you know how to cook chicken in the microwave, it’s time to put this knowledge to use! Try one of these methods tonight and you’ll be surprised at how easy and delicious microwaved chicken can be.

How To Microwave A Whole Chicken

1) Everything You Know When Cooking A Whole Chicken

Cooking chicken in the microwave can be a convenient way to get a healthy meal on the table quickly. But, like with any method, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, make sure that you use a microwave-safe dish or plate. Plastic wrap can also be used, but be sure to poke a few holes in it so the steam can escape.

Second, make sure to trim off any excess fat and skin before cooking. This will help prevent the chicken from becoming greasy or rubbery.

Third, always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure that it is cooked through. The minimum safe internal temperature for chicken is 165 degrees F.

Fourth, remember that different methods work better for different cuts of chicken. Thin cuts of chicken, such as boneless, skinless breasts or wings, can be cooked in 3-4 minutes per side. thicker cuts, such as a whole chicken or bone-in breasts, will need to cook for a little longer – 4-5 minutes per pound.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start cooking some delicious chicken in the microwave! Try one of the methods above tonight and see how easy it is. Enjoy!

2) Using a rack

This is a great option if you want to cook a whole chicken in the microwave. It’s simple and straightforward, and your chicken will come out moist and delicious.

If you want to cook a whole chicken in the microwave, it’s best to use a rack. This will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent it from becoming soggy.

First, place the rack in a large microwavable bowl. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then place it on the rack. Cook it on high for 6-8 minutes per pound. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

This is a great way to cook a whole chicken without having to turn on the oven! It’s simple, fast, and delicious. Give it a try tonight!

3) In A Microwave-safe Dish with Plastic Wrap

A whole chicken is a great option for a family-sized meal. And cooking it in the microwave is fast, easy, and convenient.

Steps on how to microwave a whole chicken:

1. Start by thawing your chicken if it is frozen.

2. Next, place the chicken in a large microwavable dish or bowl.

3. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then add any desired herbs or spices.

4. Pour 1/2 cup of water into the dish or bowl, then cover it with plastic wrap. Make sure to poke a few holes in the plastic so that the steam can escape.

5. Cook your chicken on high for 8-10 minutes per pound.

6. Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

This is a simple, straightforward method that will yield amazing results. And your whole chicken will be cooked through in no time!

So now you know can you cook chicken in the microwave and how to cook chicken in the microwave. It’s quick, easy, and a healthy way to get dinner on the table fast. Give one of these methods a try tonight!

Other Things Related To Can You Cook Chicken In The Microwave

Nutrition Information of Chicken

Chicken is a low-fat, high-protein food that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of niacin, vitamin B6, selenium, and phosphorus. Chicken also contains a good amount of zinc and potassium.

One serving of chicken (3 ounces) contains approximately:

  • 190 calories
  • 25 grams protein
  • 3 grams fat
  • 0 grams carbohydrates
  • 75 milligrams cholesterol
  • 1 gram dietary fiber
  • 2 micrograms of vitamin K
  • 9 milligrams pantothenic acid
  • 4.5 milligrams biotin

The nutritional content of chicken will vary depending on the cut and preparation method. So be sure to check the nutrition label before cooking.

But overall, chicken is a healthy, nutrient-rich food that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

So, can you cook chicken in the microwave? The answer is yes – with a few simple tips, you can have perfectly cooked chicken in no time! Follow these guidelines and your chicken will be cooked through and delicious. Enjoy!

Tips For Cooking Chicken In The Microwave

No matter you choose any methods how to cook chicken in the microwave, there are a few tips you can follow to make sure it comes out juicy and tender.

1) Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking it in the microwave. The cold chicken will take longer to cook than room-temperature chicken and the chicken will not cook evenly in the microwave.

2) Make sure your chicken is properly seasoned with salt and pepper. This will help add flavor and ensure that your chicken is cooked through.

3) Marinate your chicken before cooking. This will add flavor and help keep the chicken moist.

4) Place the chicken on a plate or in a bowl. This will help prevent any juices from spilling over and making a mess.

5) Make sure your dish or plastic wrap is microwave-safe. This is important, as non-microwave-safe materials can melt or catch on fire in the microwave.

6) Pay attention to the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. Thicker chicken breasts will need more time to cook through than thinner chicken breasts.

7) Always cook your chicken on high heat. This will help ensure that it cooks evenly and quickly.

8) Cook the chicken on high power for 3-5 minutes per serving, or until it is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook your chicken. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough.

9) Check the chicken frequently to make sure it’s not burning or drying out.

10) Add some moisture. If your chicken starts to dry out, add a little bit of water or broth to the dish. This will help keep it moist and juicy.

11) Always test the chicken for doneness before serving it. You can do this by cutting into a piece of chicken and checking to see if it’s cooked through.

12) Check for doneness. Every microwave is different, so you may need to experiment a little to find the perfect cook time. The best way to tell if the chicken is cooked through is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

13) Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This will give it time to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and will help keep it juicy and tender.

With these tips in mind, you can confidently cook delicious and healthy chicken in the microwave! Cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy meal. Follow these tips and you’ll have juicy, tender chicken every time! So what are you waiting for? Start cooking!

How To Store The Cooked Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked, you’ll need to store it properly so it stays fresh and doesn’t spoil. Here are a few tips for storing cooked chicken:

1) Let the chicken cool completely before storing it in the fridge or freezer.

2) Store the chicken in an airtight container or bag. This will help keep it moist, fresh and prevent bacteria from growing.

3) Label the container or bag with the date and type of chicken (breast, thigh, etc.). This will help you keep track of how long the chicken has been stored.

4) Store the chicken in the fridge for 3-4 days. After that, it is recommended that you discard the chicken.

5) You can also freeze cooked chicken. Place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for 2-6 months.

6) Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge or in cold water before cooking. When you’re ready to eat the frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight or in the microwave on low power.

Chicken cooked in the microwave is a healthy, quick, and easy meal that the whole family will love! With these tips in mind, you can easily store and enjoy your cooked chicken for days to come!

So there you have it – everything you need to know about cooking chicken in the microwave. With these guidelines, you’ll be able to cook juicy, tender chicken every time! Try out this quick and easy cooking method today.

More Recipes for Chicken In The Microwave

If you’re looking for more recipes for chicken in the microwave, check out these delicious options:

1) Lemon Pepper Chicken

This easy recipe features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a lemon pepper sauce. The chicken is cooked in the microwave in just minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

2) Teriyaki Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious teriyaki sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, garlic and ginger. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

3) Honey Mustard Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious honey mustard sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, vegetable oil, garlic and thyme. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

4) Fiesta Lime Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious fiesta lime sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

5) Italian Herb Chicken

This easy recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a delicious Italian herb sauce. The chicken is cooked in the microwave in just minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Garnish with fresh parsley, basil and thyme and serve immediately.

6) Ranch Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender ranch-seasoned chicken breasts are cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the ranch dressing, Italian salad dressing, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

7) Teriyaki Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious teriyaki sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, garlic and thyme. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

8) Pineapple Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious pineapple sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic and oregano. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

9) Honey Mustard Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious honey mustard sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, vegetable oil, garlic and thyme. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

10) BBQ Chicken

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious BBQ sauce and then cooked in the microwave in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

1) In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, vegetable oil, garlic and thyme. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

2) Preheat the microwave to high power. Place the chicken breasts on a microwavable dish or in a microwavable bowl. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3) Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.

With so many great recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you! So get cooking!

FAQs on Can You Cook Chicken In The Microwave

Can you cook raw chicken in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken in the microwave. However, it’s important to be careful not to overcook it, as this can make it dry and tough. Always check the chicken for doneness before serving.
What are some good side dishes for chicken?
Some good side dishes for chicken include rice, pasta, steamed vegetables or a salad. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce or gravy.
What is the best way to cook chicken in the microwave?
The best way to cook chicken in the microwave is by using a microwavable dish or bowl. You can also place it on a rack in the dish to help promote even cooking. Make sure to flip it over halfway through cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Can you freeze the cooked chicken breasts?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts. However, it’s important to note that they may not retain their original texture or flavor after being frozen. It’s best to reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Is microwaving chicken bad for you?
No, microwaving chicken is not bad for you. In fact, it can be a quick and easy way to cook chicken breasts without having to use the stove. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly to avoid any potential food poisoning.
Is it safe to eat microwaved chicken?
Yes, it is safe to eat microwaved chicken. However, it’s important that you follow the cooking instructions carefully so that the chicken is cooked through. Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
How do you microwave chicken without drying it out?
To microwave chicken without drying it out, make sure to cook it for a short amount of time and flip it over halfway through. You can also use a microwavable dish or bowl to help promote even cooking. If the chicken seems dry after cooking, you can brush on a little bit of sauce or gravy.
Why does chicken explode in the microwave?
Chicken can explode in the microwave if it is not cooked properly. Be sure to cook it for the correct amount of time and use a microwavable dish or bowl. You can also flip it over halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. If the chicken is starting to look dry, you can brush on a little bit of moisture (such as chicken broth or olive oil) before cooking.
How long does it take to cook chicken in a microwave?
It typically takes 3-5 minutes to cook chicken in a microwave, depending on the size and thickness of the breasts. Be sure to check for doneness before serving. You can also cook the chicken in condensed soup or herbs for added flavor.
Is it better to bake or microwave chicken?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as both baking and microwaving have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, microwaving is often faster and more convenient, while baking tends to produce juicier chicken. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which cooking method works best for you.
Does microwaving chicken kill salmonella?
Yes, microwaving chicken can kill salmonella. However, it’s important to follow the cooking instructions carefully to ensure that the chicken is cooked through to avoid any potential food poisoning.

Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. You can also cook the chicken in condensed soup or herbs for added flavor.
How do you know if chicken is done cooking?
There are a few ways to check if chicken is done cooking.
– One way is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
– Another way is to cut into the chicken and look for any pink juices or meat.
– You can also check for doneness by using the touch test. If the chicken feels firm and cooked through, it’s likely done. However, please note that the touch test is not always accurate.
In general, it’s best to cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help ensure that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. You can also brush on a little bit of sauce or gravy if the chicken seems dry after cooking.

Conclusion

Have you ever cooked chicken in the microwave before? If not, don’t worry – we’re here to guide you through the process. In this article, we provide tips on how to cook chicken in the microwave so that it comes out juicy and delicious every time. We also share some of our favorite recipes for microwaved chicken, so you can get started cooking right away. So what are you waiting for? Try cooking chicken in the microwave today!

So, there you have it. A comprehensive guide to microwaving chicken breasts as well as some tips to make the process go a little more smoothly. We hope that this information was helpful and that you will be able to cook delicious, healthy chicken in your microwave with ease. What are your favorite tips for microwaving chicken?

We hope the article “Can you cook chicken in the microwave?” was helpful in teaching you how to cook chicken in the microwave. And remember, if you have any questions or need help with anything, our team is here to answer them. Be sure to check out our other articles for more tips and tricks on cooking delicious food. Thanks for reading!

Further reading

How To Cook Pasta In The Microwave?

How To Melt Cheese In Microwave?

How To Defrost Sausage In Microwave Properly?