Easy Baked Chicken(Microwave)
Juicy, tender baked chicken with savory herbs and vegetables, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal. Suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove giblets from the chicken, wash it, and pat dry.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper inside the cavity of the chicken.
- Place quartered onion and sliced celery inside the chicken.
- Tie the legs together and secure the wings to the body.
- Place the chicken, breast side up, on a microwave roasting rack in a 12 x 7 x 2-inch microwaveproof dish.
- Spread softened margarine over the chicken and sprinkle with thyme.
- Cook on High for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the juices run clear.
- Cover with aluminum foil and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For even cooking, ensure the chicken is thawed completely before microwaving. If you don't have margarine, butter or olive oil works as a great substitute. Feel free to add garlic or lemon slices inside the cavity for extra flavor. Adjust cooking time based on your microwave's wattage; a lower wattage may require additional time. For more delicious chicken ideas, explore other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken-Pepper Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also use the leftovers in sandwiches or tacos for a quick lunch. Consider serving with a light dipping sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, covered, to retain moisture. For best results, slice the chicken before reheating to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Baked Chicken(Microwave) contains roughly 179 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use a thawed chicken for even cooking. If you only have a frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before proceeding with the recipe. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven cooking and extended cook times, which can affect texture and flavor.
What can I do if my microwave doesn't have a roasting rack?
If you don’t have a microwave roasting rack, you can use a microwave-safe plate or dish. Elevate the chicken by placing it on a bed of vegetables or crumpled aluminum foil to allow steam to circulate. This technique will help achieve a similar roasting effect and keep the chicken from steaming.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the meat. Alternatively, you can cut into the chicken and ensure the juices run clear, with no pink meat remaining.
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).