Crispy Coated Chicken

• Cornflake crumbs are a tasty option when microwaving chicken if you are looking for a crunchy exterior similar to that of fried chicken. Crush cornflakes in a zippered bag using a rolling pin and season them with salt, pepper and your favorite seasonings. Dip boneless chicken pieces in milk or beaten egg, and roll them in the seasoned crumbs until they are coated. Use a microwave-safe roasting rack, and cover the chicken with a paper towel. Cook for six minutes or until chicken pieces register 165 degrees Fahrenheit on an instant-read thermometer.

Pre-Cooked Chicken Strips

• Many types of pre-cooked and breaded chicken products are available and, when cooked correctly, can remain crisp in the microwave. Use an oven-safe roasting rack to allow the juices to drip from the meat and enable the outer breading to crisp. Follow package directions for cooking time and be careful not to overheat, which can dry out the meat. Cover the chicken with a paper towel when cooking. When done, remove the chicken from the microwave and allow it to sit for two minutes before eating.

Starting Chicken in the Microwave

• Starting chicken in the microwave and finishing it in the oven is another option that produces crisp chicken and is especially useful if you want to make a roasted chicken without using breading. Sprinkle a whole chicken with salt and pepper and stuff its inner cavity with rosemary and lemon or your favorite herbs. Tie the legs together using kitchen twine and place the entire chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave the chicken on high for 10 minutes, flip it over and microwave it again for 10 more minutes or until the juices run clear. Drain excess juices and transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish. Roast the chicken in a 500 F oven for five to eight minutes until its skin is crisp. Allow the chicken to stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Microwave Cooking Tips

• As with many types of cooking, having the right tools is important when cooking in the microwave. If you plan on cooking regularly in the microwave, invest in a microwave roasting rack to allow meats to cook more evenly and develop a crisper coating. Always cover foods cooked in the microwave with a paper towel to absorb some moisture and prevent sogginess. Do not leave foods sitting in the microwave once they are done because this also encourages sogginess. Remove foods promptly and allow them to cool outside of the microwave before serving.