Microwave Chicken Or Chops
Juicy chicken breasts or pork chops glazed with sweet apricot preserves, cooked quickly in the microwave for a tender, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a slit in each chicken breast or pork chop and fill with your favorite stuffing.
- Place the stuffed meat on a grooved meat tray.
- Spread apricot preserves over the top of each piece.
- Place loosely on top with wax paper.
- Microwave on full power for eight minutes.
- Turn the meat over.
- Spread with additional apricot preserves.
- Microwave for an additional seven minutes.
- Let stand for five minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a stuffing mix that complements apricot preserves, such as a wild rice blend or herbs. If you're short on apricot preserves, you can substitute with peach or fig preserves. Make sure to monitor cooking time as microwave wattages vary; adjust as necessary to ensure the chicken or pork is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the microwave chicken or chops alongside steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider pairing with a side of rice, such as Cajun Dirty Rice(Dressing), to complement the sweetness of the apricot preserves. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also enhance the dish's flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed chicken or pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken Or Chops contains roughly 244 calories, with 1g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
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 or pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Microwaving frozen meat directly may lead to uneven cooking. If using frozen, allow them to defrost in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
What can I use instead of apricot preserves?
If you don't have apricot preserves, you can substitute with other fruit preserves like peach, mango, or even a homemade fruit compote. The key is to use something that maintains a balance of sweetness and acidity to enhance the meat's flavor.
How do I know when the chicken or pork is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken or pork is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for chicken and 145°F for pork. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear and there is no pink meat visible.
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).