The Unlikely Hero: Microwave Roast Chicken

I remember one particularly sweltering summer day in culinary school. Our assignment: roast a chicken to golden perfection. My tiny apartment oven, however, seemed to have other plans, emitting more heat into the already stifling kitchen than it directed toward the bird. Dejected, I experimented – a microwave, combined with a grill function, became my unlikely ally. The result? A surprisingly juicy and flavorful chicken, proving that culinary triumphs can emerge from the most unexpected places. This recipe pays homage to that serendipitous discovery.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Omnivore

Ingredients

• 1 whole roasting chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil

Equipment Needed

• Microwave oven with grill/combination function
• Glass casserole dish suitable for microwave use

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by taking your whole chicken and placing it on a clean work surface. With a sharp knife, carefully make diagonal slits across both the chicken breast and thighs. These slits will help the chicken cook more evenly and allow the seasonings to penetrate deeper.

2. Season Generously: In a small bowl, prepare your seasoning mix. Drizzle the olive oil over the entire surface of the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken, rubbing it in thoroughly, paying special attention to the slits you made earlier. Make sure the seasoning gets into every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.

3. Prepare for Microwaving: Place the seasoned chicken in a glass casserole dish that is specifically designed for microwave use. This ensures even cooking and prevents any potential damage to your microwave.

4. Combination Cooking: Place the glass casserole dish with the chicken into the microwave oven. If your microwave has a combination grill and microwave function, this is ideal. Program the microwave to use both grill and microwave simultaneously. Cook for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken and the wattage of your microwave. Note: I use a 900 Watt combination microwave oven.

5. Even Grilling: To ensure even cooking and browning, it’s crucial to turn the chicken every 10 minutes during the cooking process. Use heat-resistant gloves or tongs to carefully rotate the chicken in the dish.

6. Check for Doneness: To check if the chicken is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is not yet at this temperature, continue cooking in the microwave for another 5-10 minutes, checking again afterward.

7. Rest Before Serving: Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the microwave and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful chicken.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Achieving Crispy Skin: While a microwave won’t give you the same level of crispness as an oven, you can enhance browning by patting the chicken skin completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. The drier the skin, the better it will brown. Also, consider using a combination microwave with a convection feature for a crispier result.
• Infuse with Aromatics: Before cooking, tuck sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage under the skin of the chicken for added flavor. You can also add a quartered lemon or onion to the cavity.
• Microwave Power: Microwaves vary in power. If your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the power level slightly. If it’s not browning enough, increase the grilling time.
• Preventing Overcooking: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to a safe temperature without drying out.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your microwave roast chicken immediately after resting. Carve the chicken and arrange it on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or roasted vegetables.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked chicken at room temperature for more than two hours.
• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions of chicken in the microwave until heated through. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Oven: For larger portions, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Skillet: Shred the chicken and reheat it in a skillet with a little olive oil or broth.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	215.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	162 g	76%
Total Fat	18.1 g	27%
Saturated Fat	4.2 g	21%
Cholesterol	53.5 mg	17%
Sodium	49.9 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	0 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	12.6 g	25%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Rub the chicken with lemon zest and juice, along with your favorite herbs.
• Garlic Chicken: Mince several cloves of garlic and rub them all over the chicken before cooking.
• Mediterranean Chicken: Season with oregano, thyme, rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with olives and feta cheese.
• Honey Garlic Glaze: Brush the chicken with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a regular microwave without a grill function?
A: While a regular microwave will cook the chicken, it won’t achieve the same browning and crispy skin. The combination grill function is crucial for that characteristic roast chicken look and texture.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the microwave?
A: Make sure to use a microwave-safe dish and turn the chicken regularly. You can also place a microwave-safe lid loosely over the dish to trap moisture. Avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I cook a frozen chicken in the microwave?
A: It’s not recommended to cook a frozen chicken in the microwave due to uneven cooking and potential food safety risks. Always thaw the chicken completely before cooking.

Q: How long does it take to thaw a chicken before cooking?
A: Thawing a chicken in the refrigerator can take 24 hours for every 5 pounds of weight. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before beginning the recipe.

Q: What side dishes go well with microwave roast chicken?
A: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the idea of microwave roast chicken deter you! It’s a surprisingly effective method for creating a juicy and flavorful meal, especially when time is of the essence or an oven isn’t readily available. Embrace this unexpected culinary technique and savor the convenience and deliciousness it offers. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to personalize your microwave roast chicken. And please, share your experience and feedback – happy cooking!