The Easiest Way to Cook Boneless Chicken Breast in the Microwave
I have always been a fan of quick and easy meals, especially during busy days. As someone who loves cooking but doesn’t always have the luxury of time, finding shortcuts in the kitchen is essential. One of my go-to dishes when I’m in a rush is boneless chicken breast. It’s versatile, juicy, and can be used in a variety of recipes. Today, I want to share with you my favorite method for cooking boneless chicken breast in the microwave – it’s quick, easy, and yields delicious results every time!
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Make sure you have all your ingredients ready before starting – this will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Prepare the Chicken Breast
Start by rinsing the boneless chicken breasts under cold water to remove any excess moisture. Pat them dry using a clean paper towel. This step is essential to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden sear.
Once the chicken breasts are dry, drizzle some olive oil on both sides and rub them gently to coat them evenly. Olive oil will add flavor and keep the chicken moist during the cooking process. Now, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to add any additional herbs or spices at this point that you enjoy – get creative!
Cook the Chicken Breast in the Microwave
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with the lid. This will help trap the moisture and create a steaming effect, resulting in juicy and tender chicken. Make sure to leave a small opening for steam to escape, preventing any excess moisture from collecting in the dish.
Now, it’s time to cook the chicken breast. Set your microwave to medium-high power and cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the breasts. If you’re unsure, check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer – it should read 165°F (74°C) for fully-cooked chicken.
Remember, microwaves can vary in power, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat, so be mindful of the cooking time.
Rest and Serve
Once the chicken breasts are cooked, remove them from the microwave and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Before slicing into the chicken, check the temperature once again to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t, place the chicken back in the microwave for an additional minute or two until it reaches the desired temperature.
Now, your boneless chicken breast is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as is or slice it up and use it as a protein-packed addition to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Cooking boneless chicken breast in the microwave can be a real game-changer, especially when you’re short on time. With this simple and easy method, you can have tender, juicy chicken in a matter of minutes. Just remember to gather all your ingredients, prepare the chicken properly, cook it with the right timing and temperature, and let it rest before serving.
So, the next time you find yourself pressed for time and craving a delicious meal, give this microwave method a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal without compromising on flavor and quality. Happy cooking!