Crispy Microwave Chicken

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Crispy microwave chicken features a savory potato crust with Parmesan, offering a quick, flavorful, and crunchy meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup margarine or butter
  • 1 1/2 cups mashed potato buds
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 1/2 to 3 pounds broiler-fryer chicken, cut up
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Heat margarine in a 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat until melted.
  2. Stir in mashed potato buds, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook, stirring constantly, until potatoes are browned, about 5 to 8 minutes.
  4. Dip chicken pieces into beaten egg, then roll in the potato mixture.
  5. Place chicken pieces, skin side up, with the thickest parts toward the outside edges in a rectangular microwavable dish (12 x 7 1/2 x 2 inches).
  6. Cover with waxed paper and cook on high (100%) for 10 minutes.
  7. Rotate the dish 1/2 turn.
  8. Cook for an additional 8 to 12 minutes until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispier coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of mashed potato buds. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you want to add some heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the potato mixture. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crispy microwave chicken with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with American recipes like Chow Mein Hot Dish(Grandkids Favorite) for a fun twist. For a hearty option, consider serving it with baked beans or coleslaw.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. For added crispness, consider reheating in an oven or toaster oven.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crispy Microwave Chicken contains roughly 394 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1587mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).

394 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.9g 12% DV
Total Fat 35.1g 45% DV
Carbs 15.8g 6% DV
Fiber 2g 7% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1587mg 69% DV
Potassium 277.1mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 28.2mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20.5mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 49.7mg 55% DV
Calcium 113.2mg 9% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed, adding a few extra minutes if the chicken is not fully thawed.

What can I use instead of margarine?

You can use unsalted butter or olive oil as a substitute for margarine. Both options will provide a rich flavor, but keep in mind that butter will add a slightly different taste and might brown faster.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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