Microwave Barbecued Chicken
A quick and flavorful microwave barbecue chicken with smoky paprika, tangy salsa, and savory soy sauce, perfect for a speedy dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken and pat dry.
- Combine paprika and ground red pepper (if using); rub into the chicken pieces.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a 1 2/3 to 2-quart microwave dish, with meaty portions toward the edge.
- Combine the remaining ingredients: salsa, catsup, dried minced onion, and soy sauce; spoon over the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, feel free to increase the ground red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. If you don’t have salsa on hand, you can substitute with diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of vinegar for acidity. Using skinless chicken helps reduce fat, but for a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Serving Suggestions
This Microwave Barbecued Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. For a complete dinner experience, consider offering a bowl of Potato And Watercress Soup as a starter or a light dessert afterward.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Barbecued Chicken contains roughly 97 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (242% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g 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 frozen chicken pieces for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken pieces. However, it's best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I do if I don't have paprika?
If you don’t have paprika, you can use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or substitute with chili powder for a different spice profile. Both will add a unique taste to the dish. Alternatively, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice heat if you like it spicy.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and reducing the amount of catsup in the sauce. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, to the microwave dish for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, serve it with a side of steamed greens for a balanced meal.
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).