Cooking chicken legs can often seem like a daunting task, especially if time is not on your side. Luckily, the microwave presents a quick, effective solution to get flavorful and juicy chicken legs without the fuss of an oven or stovetop. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into how to cook chicken legs in the microwave, ensuring that you impress yourself and others with a delightful dish that is both convenient and delicious.
Why Choose the Microwave for Cooking Chicken Legs?
Cooking chicken legs in the microwave is an ideal choice for several compelling reasons:
Speed: The microwave significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods, making it a perfect option on busy weeknights.
Convenience: You can cook the chicken without preheating an oven, saving both energy and time. This method is particularly beneficial for those who may not have access to an oven.
Moisture Retention: When microwaving, moisture is often retained better than with other cooking methods, resulting in tender and juicy chicken legs.
Flavor Infusion: With the right seasoning and sauces, your chicken can be infused with robust flavors in a short amount of time.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore how to get started with your microwave-cooked chicken legs.
Essential Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, gather the following ingredients and tools:
Ingredients
- Chicken legs (drumsticks or thighs)
- Your choice of seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or BBQ sauce)
- Olive oil or melted butter (optional for enhanced flavor)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley for garnish — optional)
Tools
- Microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave cover
- Meat thermometer (for checking doneness)
- Kitchen tongs or a fork
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
Preparation: Getting Ready to Cook
Before you begin cooking, preparation is key. Follow these steps to thoroughly prepare your chicken legs and set the stage for a successful microwaving experience.
Step 1: Clean and Pat Dry the Chicken Legs
Start by rinsing the chicken legs under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure that they cook evenly. Moisture on the surface can lead to steaming instead of roasting, affecting the final texture.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
Generously season the chicken legs with your chosen spices. You may opt for a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper or mix it up with garlic powder and paprika for a flavor boost. If you’re craving a tangy twist, consider adding BBQ sauce for a lively taste. Applying olive oil or melted butter prior to seasoning can help the spices adhere better and enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Step 3: Arrange in a Microwave-Safe Dish
Place your seasoned chicken legs in a single layer in the microwave-safe dish. Ensure that the drumsticks are not overlapping, as this will ensure even cooking. If the dish is crowded, it may lead to uneven heat distribution.
Cooking Chicken Legs in the Microwave
Now that you’ve prepared your chicken legs, let’s jump into the detailed cooking method.
Step 1: Cover the Chicken Legs
Cover the microwave-safe dish with a lid or a microwave cover. This helps to trap steam, which not only cooks the chicken efficiently but also keeps it moist. If you don’t have a lid, you can use microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
Step 2: Set the Cooking Time
The general rule of thumb for microwaving chicken legs is to cook for 6 to 8 minutes per leg, depending on the wattage of your microwave (higher wattage means less time). For more precise cooking, it’s always recommended to refer to:
- Medium (average microwave wattage): 8-10 minutes
- High: 6-8 minutes
It’s advisable to start at a lower time and add more as necessary until fully cooked.
Step 3: Let the Time Pass
Press the start button and let the microwave do its job. It’s a good idea to pause halfway through the cooking time to turn the chicken legs for even cooking. Use your tongs or a fork to carefully rotate them.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Once the timer goes off, it’s crucial to verify that the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken legs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely consumed. If they haven’t reached this temperature, microwave them in 1-2 minute increments until fully cooked.
Step 5: Resting the Chicken Legs
After cooking the chicken, let them rest for about 5 minutes in the covered dish. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your chicken legs remain juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
While your chicken legs are resting, you can think about how you want to serve your dish. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
1. Side Dishes
Pair the chicken legs with some simple sides such as:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans complement the chicken nicely.
- Rice or Quinoa: These grains provide a classic pairing that absorbs flavors beautifully.
2. Garnishing
Elevate the presentation by garnishing with:
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over your chicken legs for a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness to the dish and balances the richness of the chicken.
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve cooked more chicken legs than you can eat, it’s essential to store the leftovers properly.
Step 1: Cool the Chicken
Allow any leftover chicken legs to cool completely before storing them. This step is crucial to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Step 2: Airtight Storage
Place the cooled chicken legs in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
Step 3: Refrigeration
Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Step 4: Reheating
To reheat, use the microwave again. Heat on low power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
The Bottom Line
Cooking chicken legs in the microwave is an effortless and time-saving method that allows you to enjoy a delicious protein-rich meal in no time. With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can create a satisfying dish that rivals any traditional method. Remember to focus on proper seasoning, even cooking, and resting for optimal results.
By considering serving suggestions and proper storage, you can elevate your microwave chicken legs game even further. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, mastering this microwave technique will undoubtedly become a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your culinary journey and happy cooking!
What temperature should I set my microwave to cook chicken legs?
To cook chicken legs in your microwave, it’s essential to use a medium to high power setting. Most microwaves have settings that range from 1 to 10, with 10 being the maximum power. A setting of 7 or 8 is usually ideal for cooking chicken legs, as it allows for even cooking without drying them out.
Microwave cooking times can vary based on the wattage of your appliance and the size of the chicken legs. A general guideline is to cook them for about 10 to 15 minutes per pound, flipping them halfway through to ensure that they are heated evenly.
Should I cover the chicken legs while microwaving?
Yes, covering the chicken legs while microwaving is recommended. Using a microwave-safe lid or wrap is ideal, as it helps to trap steam and moisture, which prevents the chicken from becoming dry. This covered cooking method also ensures that the heat circulates evenly, which is crucial for thorough cooking.
Make sure that any covering you use is vented to prevent a buildup of steam that could lead to splattering. You can also use microwave-safe parchment paper, which allows for some steam to escape while still keeping the chicken moist.
How do I know when the chicken legs are fully cooked?
The best way to check if chicken legs are fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding any bones. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure that the chicken is safe to eat.
If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut into the chicken to check for doneness. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat near the bone. It’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute.
Can I marinate the chicken legs before microwaving?
Absolutely! Marinating chicken legs prior to microwaving can enhance their flavor and tenderness. You can use any marinade of your choice—whether it’s a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, or a store-bought marinade. A marinating time of at least 30 minutes is recommended.
However, for the best results, consider marinating the chicken legs for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat but can also help in tenderizing the chicken, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Can I cook frozen chicken legs in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken legs in the microwave. However, it is important to note that starting from frozen will generally increase your cooking time. When cooking frozen chicken, use the defrost setting if your microwave has one, or simply microwave at a lower power level to gently thaw the legs.
After thawing, you can switch to a higher power setting to finish cooking the chicken. Make sure to check the internal temperature and ensure that they reach the safe level of 165°F (75°C) for well-cooked chicken.
What is the best way to season chicken legs before microwaving?
Seasoning chicken legs is key to enhancing their flavor, and you have a multitude of options. You can use simple seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for a basic yet delicious taste. For added complexity, consider using a mixture of herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or a ready-made spice rub.
Just remember not to overpower the chicken with heavy sauces that may cause a mess in the microwave. A light coating of olive oil or a splash of soy sauce can provide moisture and flavor without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to get creative but keep the seasoning balanced.
Is it safe to reheat cooked chicken legs in the microwave?
Yes, reheating cooked chicken legs in the microwave is safe as long as you follow proper guidelines. When reheating, cover the chicken to retain moisture, and heat it at medium power to ensure even warming. You may want to reheat the chicken in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Always ensure that the internal temperature of the reheated chicken legs reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. By doing so, you help kill off any bacteria that may have developed during storage, ensuring that your meal remains both tasty and safe to eat.