Steaming Chicken Breasts: Quick Microwave Method

Chicken is a versatile meat that can be used in a multitude of dishes and cuisines. It's no wonder that many people turn to chicken as a quick and easy protein option. Cooking chicken breast in the microwave is a convenient and time-saving method that can yield tender, juicy, and flavorful results. In this guide, you will learn the steps to steam chicken breast in the microwave, ensuring a delicious and perfectly cooked meal every time.

Selecting the right chicken breasts

Freshness and Quality:

Start by choosing high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. Opt for boneless and skinless options as they tend to cook more evenly and are better suited for steaming. Check the "best before" date and inspect the packaging to ensure the meat looks and smells fresh. Avoid chicken breasts with excessive liquid in the package, discolouration, or signs of freezer burn.

Size and Thickness:

The size and thickness of the chicken breasts will impact the cooking time and evenness of cooking. If using regular chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat tenderizer between two pieces of wax paper or plastic wrap. This step will not only ensure more uniform cooking but also reduce the overall cooking time. Thin-cut chicken breasts are a good option if you want to shorten the cooking process.

Quantity:

The number of chicken breasts you plan to cook simultaneously will influence your cooking approach. Most sources recommend cooking one to four chicken breasts at a time for best results. Cooking too many chicken breasts at once may lead to overcrowding, resulting in uneven cooking.

Seasoning:

Seasoning the chicken breasts is an essential step in enhancing their flavour. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or experiment with various seasonings like Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. Choose seasonings that align with your taste preferences and the intended dish.

Storage and Freshness:

If you're preparing the chicken breasts in advance, proper storage is key. You can wrap each chicken breast individually in unbleached parchment paper and store them in freezer bags. Cooked chicken breasts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.

By carefully selecting and preparing the right chicken breasts, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious and tender steamed chicken in the microwave.

Preparing the chicken for cooking

Select high-quality chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts. These are ideal for microwave cooking and will yield optimal results.

Rinse the chicken: Place the chicken breasts under cold running water to remove any impurities. This step ensures that your chicken is clean and ready for the next steps.

Pat dry: Use paper towels to gently pat the chicken breasts dry. Removing the excess moisture helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Seasoning: This is where you can get creative. Season the chicken breasts with your favourite spices and marinades. Some popular choices include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or onion powder. You can also keep it simple with just salt and pepper. Remember to season both sides of the chicken breasts generously.

Pounding the chicken (optional): If you want your chicken breasts to cook more quickly and evenly, you can use a meat tenderizer to pound them to an even thickness. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap before pounding. This step is especially useful if you have thicker chicken breasts.

Arranging the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a microwave-safe dish. If you're cooking multiple breasts, make sure they fit comfortably in the dish with a little space around each one. Arrange the chicken breasts with the thicker portions towards the outer edges of the dish. This ensures even cooking, as microwaves cook from the outside in.

Adding liquid: Pour water, stock, or any other liquid of your choice into the dish. The liquid should reach approximately one-third of the way up the chicken breast. This step is important as it creates a steam bath, helping to cook the chicken perfectly and keep it moist.

Covering the dish: Cover the dish with a single sheet of wax paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap. This step is crucial in creating the steam bath effect. However, if using plastic wrap, ensure that you leave a small vent or fold back a corner to allow steam to escape.

With these steps, your chicken will be prepared and ready for steaming in the microwave. Now, you can proceed to set the microwave timer and temperature for cooking.

Cooking the chicken in a microwave-safe dish

Cooking chicken in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get a tasty, juicy result. It is also a safe method, as long as you take some simple precautions.

Firstly, you will need a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to hold your chicken breasts in a single layer, with a little space around each one. It is important that the dish is not too crowded, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Place the chicken breasts in the dish with the widest side facing outwards. Microwaves cook from the outer edges inwards, so this will ensure the narrower ends do not dry out.

Next, you will need to add a liquid such as water, stock, or juice to a level that is approximately one-third of the way up the chicken breasts. This will create a steam bath, helping to cook and poach the chicken, and ensuring it stays moist and tender. Cover the dish with waxed paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap, again ensuring that the covering does not touch the chicken. If using plastic wrap, it is important to leave a corner of the dish uncovered to allow steam to escape.

Now your dish is ready, simply place it in the microwave and cook on high for four to five minutes per piece of chicken. The exact timings will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, and the number of breasts in the dish. For two breasts, you can expect a cooking time of around eight to ten minutes. It is important to check that the chicken is cooked through. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F/74°C. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

When removing the dish from the microwave, be cautious, as it will be hot. Use oven mitts or potholders to protect your hands. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking the chicken in a microwave-safe bag

Cooking chicken in a microwave-safe bag is a convenient and quick way to prepare a tasty meal. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by selecting fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts for optimal results. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water to remove any impurities, then pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. Season the chicken breasts with your favourite spices and marinades. Popular choices include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Bag the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts into a microwave-safe bag, ensuring that it is well-sealed. You can use microwave-safe plastic bags designed for cooking or steaming. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.

Step 3: Prepare the Microwave

Lay the bag flat on a microwave-safe plate. It is important to use a microwave-safe plate that can withstand the heat and won't warp or damage your microwave. Make a small slit in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape. This vent is crucial to prevent the bag from bursting and to ensure proper cooking.

Step 4: Microwave the Chicken

Place the plate with the bagged chicken into the microwave. Cook the chicken on high power for approximately 6 minutes for a single chicken breast. If you are cooking multiple breasts, you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly, adding about 2 minutes for each additional breast.

Step 5: Flip and Cook Again

After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or potholders. The plate and bag will be hot, so take caution to avoid burns. Flip the bag over and return it to the microwave. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on high power. The total cooking time will depend on the number of chicken breasts and the thickness of the meat.

Step 6: Check the Temperature

Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts. For food safety, chicken should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the chicken has not reached this temperature, continue cooking in 1-minute intervals until it is done.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the cooked chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender texture. Then, carefully remove the chicken from the bag and plate, and it is ready to be enjoyed!

Cooking chicken in a microwave-safe bag is a convenient and quick option for busy days. With this method, you can have tasty and juicy chicken breasts ready for salads, sandwiches, tacos, or any other dish you desire.

Safety precautions to keep in mind

Microwaving chicken is a convenient and quick way to cook chicken breasts, but it's important to follow certain safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience. Here are some essential safety measures to keep in mind:

• Use a microwave-safe dish: Always use a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to hold your chicken breasts in a single layer with a bit of space around each of them. Avoid using metal containers or utensils, as they can cause arcing and damage your microwave.
• Cover the dish: Cover the dish with a single sheet of waxed paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap to create a steam bath. This helps cook the chicken evenly and prevents splattering. However, be cautious when removing the plastic wrap, as steam may escape and cause burns. Use oven mitts or kitchen tongs to handle the hot dish and keep your hands and face away from the steam.
• Cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the number and thickness of the chicken breasts. As a general rule, cook on high for approximately 4-5 minutes per chicken breast. However, microwaves can vary in power, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
• Safe internal temperature: It is crucial to ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illnesses. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding contact with bones, as they can alter the reading.
• Resting period: After microwaving, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor and succulence of the chicken. The residual heat will continue to cook the chicken, ensuring it reaches the recommended internal temperature.
• Avoid cutting into the chicken: Do not cut into the chicken to check if it is cooked through, as this will release all the juices, resulting in dry chicken. Instead, rely on the food thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Handle raw chicken with care: Before and after handling raw chicken, wash your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, wash cutting boards, utensils, and dishes with hot water and soap to prevent cross-contamination.
• Defrost chicken properly: If you are using frozen chicken, ensure that you defrost it safely and completely before microwaving. Improper defrosting can lead to uneven cooking and increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Keep raw chicken separate: Always keep raw chicken separate from other foods, especially those that will not be cooked. Use separate cutting boards for raw chicken and cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.
• Refrigerate or freeze cooked chicken: If you are not consuming the cooked chicken immediately, it is important to store it properly. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Wrap the chicken individually in unbleached parchment paper and store it in freezer bags or airtight containers.

Frequently asked questions