Microwave Chicken Breasts
Juicy microwave chicken breasts coated with flavorful mustard and tarragon, then brushed with a butter lemon sauce for a quick, savory meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread Dijon mustard on both sides of each chicken breast and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
- Melt butter in a glass measuring cup and stir in lemon juice, garlic salt, and tarragon to make the butter sauce.
- Place chicken on a microwave roasting rack and brush with the butter sauce.
- Microwave on High for 10 minutes. Rearrange chicken without turning so the uncooked portions are on the outside of the dish.
- Brush with the butter sauce again and microwave on High for another 10 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, brushing with the butter sauce every 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider substituting the Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard for added texture. If you don’t have tarragon, dried thyme or rosemary can work well. Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid to retain moisture during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Scalloped Potatoes Deluxe for a comforting side dish. Drizzle any remaining butter sauce over the chicken and sides for extra flavor. For a complete meal, consider adding a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave in short intervals until heated through. This method helps maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken Breasts contains roughly 99 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's recommended to thaw them completely first for even cooking. If you microwave them from frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly, increasing it by about 5-10 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for butter in the butter sauce?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil or a plant-based margarine for the butter. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still yield a delicious sauce. For a lighter sauce, consider using chicken broth mixed with lemon juice instead.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, try mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the butter sauce. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy mustard or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Adjust to your heat preference for the best results.
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).