Is your microwave chicken too dry?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these 10 simple fixes.
Say goodbye to disappointment and hello to juicy, mouthwatering chicken every time.
From marinating to using a microwave-safe cover, we’ll show you how to retain moisture and enhance the taste of your chicken.
So, grab your apron and get ready to transform your microwave chicken game. You won’t believe the difference it makes!

Marinate the Chicken Before Microwaving
If your microwave chicken is too dry, you can try marinating it before cooking. Marinating the chicken helps to infuse it with moisture and flavor, ensuring a juicier and more delicious outcome.
To marinate the chicken, start by choosing a marinade that suits your taste preferences. It could be a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, or you can explore different marinade recipes online.
Once you have your marinade ready, place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and massage the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the chicken from the marinade and microwave it according to your recipe.
Enjoy your moist and flavorful microwave chicken!
Use a Microwave-Safe Cover or Wrap to Retain Moisture
To keep your chicken moist, use a cover or wrap that is safe to microwave. When microwaving chicken, it is important to prevent moisture loss, as this can result in dry and tough meat. By using a microwave-safe cover or wrap, you create a seal that traps in the natural juices and steam, helping to retain moisture during the cooking process.
This will result in tender and succulent chicken that is far from dry. Look for covers or wraps specifically designed for microwave use, as they are made from materials that can withstand high temperatures without melting or releasing harmful chemicals. These covers and wraps are readily available in most kitchenware stores or online, making it easy to find the perfect option for your chicken.
Add a Splash of Chicken Broth or Water Before Microwaving
When you’re ready to cook, go ahead and add a splash of chicken broth or water before popping it in the microwave. This simple trick can help to prevent your microwave chicken from becoming dry and tough.
The addition of chicken broth or water adds moisture to the chicken, keeping it juicy and tender during the cooking process. As the chicken heats up in the microwave, the broth or water steams, creating a moist environment that helps to lock in the natural juices of the meat.
This technique is particularly effective for reheating leftover chicken, as it can revive the moisture that may have been lost during the initial cooking.
Cook the Chicken in Shorter Intervals, Checking for Doneness Each Time
Cook the chicken for shorter intervals, making sure to check for doneness after each round of cooking. This method is essential to prevent overcooking and ensure that your chicken stays juicy and tender.
Start by microwaving the chicken for a shorter amount of time than the recipe suggests. For example, if the recipe calls for 10 minutes, try cooking it for 5 minutes instead. After each round of cooking, carefully check the chicken by cutting into the thickest part. The meat should be opaque and the juices should run clear.
If it’s not fully cooked, continue microwaving in shorter intervals until it reaches the desired doneness. Remember, patience is key here. Taking the time to check and adjust the cooking time will result in perfectly cooked, moist chicken every time.
Use a Lower Power Setting on Your Microwave
Using a lower power setting in your microwave can help ensure that the chicken stays moist and juicy. When you cook chicken at a high power setting, the intense heat can quickly dry out the meat, leaving it tough and unappetizing.
By reducing the power level, you give the chicken more time to cook evenly and retain its natural juices. Simply set your microwave to a lower power level, such as 50% or 70%, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
This gentle cooking method allows the chicken to cook more slowly and evenly, preventing it from becoming dry. So, the next time you want to microwave chicken, remember to use a lower power setting for moist and juicy results.
Try Microwaving the Chicken With a Damp Paper Towel on Top
You can achieve moist and juicy chicken by placing a damp paper towel on top while microwaving.
When cooking chicken in the microwave, it’s common for it to become dry and tough. However, there is a simple trick that can help solve this problem.
By placing a damp paper towel on top of the chicken before microwaving it, you can retain the moisture and prevent it from drying out. The moisture from the paper towel will create steam, which will keep the chicken moist and juicy during the cooking process.
Simply wet a paper towel with water and place it over the chicken in the microwave-safe dish. Then, proceed to microwave the chicken as you normally would.
This method is quick, easy, and can make a huge difference in the texture and taste of your microwave chicken.
Opt for Bone-In Chicken Pieces for Added Moisture
Now that you’ve tried microwaving the chicken with a damp paper towel on top, let’s explore another option to make your microwave chicken juicier.
Why not opt for bone-in chicken pieces? By using bone-in chicken, you can add extra moisture and flavor to your microwave-cooked chicken. The bones help retain moisture during the cooking process, preventing the chicken from drying out.
Plus, the bones add depth to the flavor profile of the chicken, making it more delicious and satisfying. So next time you’re craving microwave chicken, consider choosing bone-in pieces for a juicier and tastier result. Your taste buds will thank you!
Coat the Chicken in a Sauce or Marinade Before Microwaving
Coating the chicken in a flavorful sauce or marinade before microwaving can help enhance its juiciness and taste. By doing this, you ensure that the chicken stays moist and doesn’t become dry and bland.
The sauce or marinade adds an extra layer of flavor, infusing into the meat as it cooks. Choose a sauce or marinade that complements the flavors you desire, whether it’s a tangy barbecue sauce, a zesty teriyaki marinade, or a savory garlic and herb mixture.
Simply pour the sauce or marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, place it in the microwave and cook according to the recipe instructions.
The result? A succulent, flavorful chicken that will leave your taste buds satisfied. Give it a try and see the difference it makes!
Let the Chicken Rest for a Few Minutes After Microwaving to Redistribute Juices
After microwaving, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
When you take the chicken out of the microwave, it may be tempting to dig in right away, but resist that urge. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes gives the juices inside the meat a chance to spread out, making the chicken more moist and delicious.
During the resting period, the residual heat continues to cook the chicken gently, ensuring that it remains juicy and tender. This simple step can make a big difference in the overall texture and taste of your microwaved chicken.
Sprinkle the Chicken With Lemon Juice or Vinegar Before Microwaving
Before microwaving, you can sprinkle the chicken with lemon juice or vinegar to add a tangy flavor to the meat. This simple trick not only enhances the taste of your chicken but also helps to keep it moist during the microwaving process.
The acidity in lemon juice or vinegar helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. Additionally, the tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing twist to your meal.
To do this, simply squeeze some fresh lemon juice or sprinkle a small amount of vinegar over the chicken before placing it in the microwave. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken for maximum flavor.
Give it a try and elevate your microwaved chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully transformed your dry microwave chicken into a succulent masterpiece! With these 10 fixes, you’ve unlocked a world of flavors and moistness.
Just imagine, marinating the chicken before microwaving, using a microwave-safe cover to trap the tantalizing aromas, and adding a splash of chicken broth for an extra burst of juiciness.
Your taste buds will dance with delight as you savor each tender bite. So go ahead, embrace these tips and elevate your microwave chicken to new heights of culinary excellence!
Ben, a culinary enthusiast and owner of RelishedRecipes.com, shares his passion for food and cooking through delectable recipes and valuable tips. Ben delights in exploring international cuisines and inspiring home cooks on their culinary journeys.