Chapter 8

When I was organizing this chapter, I was tempted to include all of these microwave recipes in the "Cooking for Everyday" chapter. After all, the microwave is certainly becoming part of our everyday life.

The reason I didn't is$well, there are two reasons. First, if I put all the microwave recipes in one chapter, you won't have to waste time hunting for them. Second, there are a number of tips on using the microwave successfully, and I thought you might like to have them all in one place, also.

The microwave is a wonderful convenience, but in my case, I used to use it for reheating foods or for boiling water and not much else. Are you the same? Ah, but there's so much more to it than that! Having spent time with the Perdue food technologists and home economists, and especially after studying the techniques and recipes from Rita Marie Schneider, the home economist who developed the majority of the Perdue microwave recipes, I'm a convert now. I've come to appreciate the versatility of the microwave as well as the speed.

There's a reason I happen to have spent time with the Perdue experts. Once when Frank was microwaving nuggets for himself at HIGH, he found that by the time all of them were heated, one of them was badly overcooked and therefore, dried out and$what a dirty word this is in the Perdue household!$tough. Frank didn't know that the microwave was the problem and instead assumed it was his product that was at fault.

How can I even tell you about the crisis that one tough "tender" caused! Frank didn't seem as upset when a whole processing plant burned down the year before. Because of that one tough tender, he called the plant manager, the quality control people, the packaging people, the man who wrote the cooking directions, the food technologists, the woman who runs the tasting lab, and probably half a dozen other people as well. It didn't matter that it was the weekend$the situation had to be addressed immediately! He kept repeating disconsolately, "I have no right to sell a product like this."

Eventually, one of the Perdue food technicians came out to our house and checked the microwave and suggested that we'd get more even cooking if we used MEDIUM HIGH. She said that at this setting, the microwaves reach an equilibrium so heating is much more even. And when there are no hot spots and no cold spots, the chicken gets uniformly warm with no dried out tough parts.

While she was there, she had a number of other tips for me as well, and as I talked with other Perdue people, I collected still more. By now, knowing a few little tricks about the microwave, I know how to make much better use of it. Because of the time it saves in cooking, and the time it saves in clean-up (no baked on bits of food to scrub), I use the microwave about as often as my oven.

Tips for Using Your Microwave

_The best microwave tip I know is, learn about the "cold spots" in your microwave so you don't end up with unevenly cooked chicken. To learn your microwave's "cold spots," line the bottom of your microwave oven with wax paper and then spread an eighth-inch layer of pancake batter over it. Turn the oven on HIGH, and then check it at 30 second intervals. At some point, (in my case after a minute and a half), you'll see that in some places the batter is dried out and hard, while in others, it's still soupy, as if the heat hadn't touched it. Once I made this check, I gained an immense respect for the fact that microwaves don't necessarily cook evenly, and I've made sure to compensate ever since by stirring or turning foods as directed in microwave recipes.

_Do not use utensils with metal trim (including the gold trim on fine china), handle clamps, or fastening screws. Metal trim can cause arcing (sparking). Aluminum foil, in small amounts on the other hand, won't cause arcing in most microwaves as long as it doesn't touch the sides of the oven.

_The coverings used in microwave cooking have definite purposes: use plastic wrap to steam and tenderize; use wax paper to hold in heat without steaming; use paper towels to absorb moisture, yet hold in heat.

_To obtain a crisp, crunchy crumb-coated chicken, first cook covered with wax paper, then switch to a paper towel covering and, finally, complete cooking with chicken uncovered.

_If the bony parts of your chicken are overcooking before the meatier parts are done, shield the bony parts by placing strips of thin aluminum foil over them.

_If you're microwaving chicken livers, prick each one to allow steam to escape. Before I knew this tip, I've had them explode in the oven.

_Microwave recipes usually call for smaller amounts of seasonings than conventionally cooked dishes. Microwaving tends to intensify flavors, so you won't need as much seasoning.

_Don't ignore the standing time called for in some of these recipes. In microwave cookery, standing time allows further cooking to occur after you have removed the food from the microwave oven. Covering the food holds heat in and speeds this final, important step. When I've cheated on this step, I've found the chicken hard to carve and undercooked.

_When possible, arrange food in a circular or donut shape; without corners, food cooks more evenly from all sides. For example, if you're cooking drumsticks, arrange them like a wagon wheel with the meatier portions at the outer edge, and the drum stick end in the center.

_Thin foods cook faster than thick foods because microwaves lose power after they penetrate food.

_Ingredients also affect cooking time. Foods higher in sugar or fat heat faster and to higher temperatures than do those with lower sugar or fat content.

_When the recipe says "70% power," or MEDIUM HIGH, don't be tempted to get things done faster by going for 100% power. At 70% power, the microwaves cook the product more slowly but also more evenly, so there's less worry about cold spots.

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH ALMOND SAUCEServes 4 Of course you can serve the pre-cooked chicken just as it comes from the store, without doing anything else to it at all. I've done this many times with our Perdue Done It! roasted chicken when I've been in a hurry. But this recipe only takes a few extra minutes and you'll have a show piece at the end. As you're making it, be glad for a moment that you're not making this recipe in the year 1911. A typical recipe in a the December issue of The Wisconsin Farmer assumes that you've already plucked the bird and removed its head and feet. It directs you "to singe the bird over a burning newspaper on a hot stove." The stove would probably have been a wood-burning one, and in all probability, it would have been up to you to get the wood for the stove. When I think of then and I think of now, I'm glad that "We've come a long way, baby". 1 roasted chicken 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 cup chicken broth 2 tablespoons Amaretto or other almond liqueur 1-1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup sliced toasted almonds Heat pre-cooked roasted chicken in its own microwave tray following package directions. In 2-cup glass container, combine cornstarch, broth, liqueur and lemon juice. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 or 4 minutes until bubbly and thick; stir twice during cooking. Add almonds. Slice chicken onto a platter and top with sauce.

FIVE-MINUTE ROASTED DRUMSTICKS 1 package roasted chicken drumsticks (4-6 per package). Following package directions, warm roasted drumsticks in a conventional oven or, using package tray, heat in a microwave oven. Brush with your favorite bottled barbecue sauce.

CHICKEN POCKET SANDWICHESServes 4 You could use regular chicken breasts for this, but the roaster breast has a richer, more chickeny flavor. ("Chickeny" is a word, by the way. Frank uses it all the time, and he ought to know.) 1 roaster boneless breast 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper 4 pita breads Lettuce leaves 1 container (8-ounces) plain yogurt 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion Cut chicken into 1-inch chunks. In 3-quart microwave-safe utensil, combine olive oil, lemon juice, onion, garlic, salt, oregano, and Cayenne pepper; add chicken chunks and stir. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 10 minutes or until chicken has turned white. Stir mixture 3 or 4 times during cooking. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Cut each pita bread into 2 pockets, line with lettuce and spoon in chicken. In small bowl, combine yogurt and green onion; serve over chicken.

CHICKEN A LA MONTMORENCYServes 6 Any recipe with the word "Montmorency" is apt to have cherries in it. The sauce for this one is particularly good and Frank liked it enough to spread the leftovers on toast the next day at breakfast. If you don't want to microwave the roaster breast, just cook it in your oven, following the package directions. When I'm in a hurry, I use this microwave recipe, but breasts are the hardest part of the chicken to keep tender in a microwave because they're fairly dry to begin with, and if you overcook them, they'll get tough. 1 roaster breast 1 can (16-ounces) pitted dark sweet cherries 1/4 cup dry red wine Water 5 teaspoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons red currant jelly (optional) 1 tablespoon butter or margarine Salt and ground pepper to taste Place breast, skin side down, on microwave-safe roasting utensil. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM HIGH (70% power) and cook 12 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn breast, skin side up; brush with drippings in utensil. Re-cover with wax paper; complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 15 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when breast is cut near bone. Drain cherries, reserving syrup in a 4-cup glass container. Place cherries and red wine in small bowl. Add enough water to cherry syrup to measure 1 cup. Stir in cornstarch, mixing until well blended. Microwave at HIGH 3 minutes, stirring twice. Stir cherries with wine into thickened syrup. Continue cooking at HIGH 1 to 2 minutes or until mixture thickens and boils for 1 minute. Add jelly, if desir ed, and butter; stir until smooth. To serve, slice chicken and place on warm platter. Spoon some of cherry sauce over chicken slices; pass remaining sauce.

CHICKEN A LA NANCYServes 4 Unlike me, Frank does not enjoy puttering around in the kitchen. He loves the results, but cooking is not his favorite way to spend his free time. (He'd be more apt to watch a game on TV or visit with friends.) When he does cook, I can almost guarantee that it will be something quick and carefree. But there is one exception, and it's this recipe. I've never dared ask just who Nancy is, but Frank once won a cooking contest using her recipe, so he's been fond of it ever since. He says to point out that the cooked lemon with rind does remain as a part of the food. It adds an unusual taste and texture. If you don't like a strong lemony flavor, you might start by using half the lemon that the recipe calls for. That's what I do when I make this recipe. 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves or 1 thin sliced boneless roaster breast 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 lemon with peel, very thinly sliced 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced 1/4 cup dry white wine 1 tablespoon flour 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 1 can (14-ounces) water-packed whole artichoke hearts, drained and quartered Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap. Pound to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into 2 inch squares. If using thin sliced boneless Roaster breast, skip the pounding and simply cut into 2 inch squares. Frying Pan Method: In a large skillet over medium heat, hat oil. Add garlic and saute until soft. Add lemon and mushrooms and saute 1 to 2 minutes. Add all other ingredients except artichokes. Fry, stirring frequently, approximately 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Add artichokes and heat. aMicrowave Method: In 3-quart microwave-safe round dish, combine oil, mushrooms, lemon slices and garlic; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 minutes, stirring once. In a 1-cup glass measuring cup, combine wine and flour; stir into mushroom mixture. Arrange chicken pieces on top of mushroom mixture and cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 6 minutes per pound, stirring mixture 3 times. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and oregano. Stir in artichoke quarters; re- cover and microwave at HIGH 2 minutes. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes.

CHICKEN THIGHS PARMESANServes 3-4 The Dijon mustard called for in this recipe is quite sharp before it's cooked. After heating in the microwave, you'll find that it loses much of its sharpness and leaves behind a subtle spicy flavor. Yellow mustard won't produce the same effect. 6 chicken thighs 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Remove skin from thighs. On wax paper, combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. In shallow dish, combine butter, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Brush thighs with butter mixture and then roll in crumbs to lightly coat both sides. Reserve remaining butter mixture and crumbs. Arrange thighs in circular pattern on microwave-safe roasting utensil; cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn thighs over; spoon on remaining butter mixture and sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture. Cover with a double thickness of paper towels. Complete cooking; remove paper towels during last 2 minutes cooking time. Let stand, uncovered, 2 minutes before serving.

CHICKEN WITH MANGO SAUCEServes 6 Mangos, which are rich in vitamins A and C, make a delicious, colorful and unusual sauce for a roaster breast. When mangos aren't available, try fresh or canned peaches. 1 roaster breast 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/2 cup fresh orange juice 2 ripe mangos, peeled and cut into chunks 2 tablespoons cherry- or orange-flavored liqueur Salt and pepper to taste Place skin side down on microwave-safe roasting utensil. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) and cook 12 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn breast skin side up; brush with drippings in utensil. Re- cover with wax paper and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 15 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when breast is cut near the bone. In a 4-cup glass container, place butter. Microwave at HIGH 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in cornstarch until blended; stir in brown sugar and orange juice. In blender or food processor fitted with steel blade, puree mango chunks. Stir pureed mangos into orange juice mixture. Microwave at HIGH 4 minutes, stirring twice. Add liqueur; microwave 1 minute longer. To serve, slice chicken and place on warm platter. Spoon some of mango sauce over slices, then pass remaining sauce.

CURRY-GLAZED BREASTServes 4 Curry powder is a blend of many spices, so you don't need to combine spices yourself. Indian Curry Powder is mild and Madras Curry Powder is quite hot. 1 whole roaster breast 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons curry powder 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste Place breast bone side down on a microwave-safe roasting utensil. Place butter in a 2-cup glass container; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 45 seconds. Stir in honey, mustard, curry powder and salt; brush mixture all over breast. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 12 minutes per pound. Baste breast and rotate utensil 3 or 4 times during cooking. Let stand, covered with wax paper, 15 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when breast is cut near bone.

HAM AND CHICKEN ROLL-UPSServes 4 If you can't easily find the prosciutto called for in this recipe, substitute any thinly sliced ham, such as the pre- sliced ham you find in the deli section of your supermarket. Or try thin slices of smoked turkey ham. If you slice the cooked Roll-Ups crosswise, they make wonderful hors d'oeuvres or appetizers. 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves or 1 thin sliced boneless roaster breast 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crumbled Salt and ground pepper to taste 4 thin slices prosciutto Place chicken breast halves between 2 sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Skip the previous step if you are using thin sliced boneless roaster breasts. Brush breasts with olive oil to help seal in moisture; sprinkle with rosemary, salt and pepper. Roll up each breast half, starting from narrow end. Wrap a slice of prosciutto around each roll. In 8-inch square microwave-safe baking dish, place chicken rolls seam side down. Cover with wax paper. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 8 minutes, rotating dish 2 or 3 times during cooking. Let stand 5 minutes. Check for doneness after standing; juices should be clear with no hint of pink when chicken is cut near center.

HEAVENLY CHICKENServes 4 If you're using fresh asparagus spears for this, here's how to tell the tender part from the part that's too tough and fibrous to be good eating. Take the bud end of an asparagus spear in one hand and the butt end in the other and then bend the spear until it breaks. The part on the bud side is tender enough to use. The spears will always break at just that point. But don't throw away the tough end. If you peel the tough end with a potato peeler, you'll get down to the tender, edible part underneath and can use that portion also. Cook the leftover parts until tender and use them in soups or omelettes. 4 chicken breast halves 12 fresh or frozen asparagus spears 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup butter or margarine 4 tablespoons flour 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger 1 1/2 cups chicken broth 1/2 cup dry white wine Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 1/4 cup chopped pecans 1/4 cup crushed crackers On microwave-safe roasting pan, arrange breasts, bone side up, in a circular pattern. Cover loosely with plastic wrap; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 8 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time turn breasts over; re- cover with plastic wrap and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Rinse asparagus and remove tough end. On microwave-safe rack, arrange asparagus with stem ends toward outside. Place rack in microwave-safe utensil. Add water; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 to 7 minutes or until tender-crisp. Let stand, covered, 3 to 5 minutes. In 4-cup glass container, place butter; microwave at HIGH 1 minute. Blend flour and ginger into melted butter. Gradually add chicken broth, wine, salt and pepper, stirring constantly. Microwave at HIGH 5 minutes or until thick and smooth, stirring 3 times. In 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe dish, arrange cooked asparagus, with stem ends toward outside; pour half of wine sauce over asparagus. Arrange chicken breasts on top with meatier portions toward outside; spoon remaining sauce over breasts. Sprinkle pecans and cracker crumbs on top; cover with a double thickness of paper towels. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH 5 minutes or until heated through.

MICROWAVE MARMALADE DRUMSTICKSServes 4 This recipe calls for a microwave-safe utensil. Do you know how to tell for sure if your utensil is suitable?

1. Place the utensil and a cup of water side by side in the microwave oven.

2. Turn the oven to the HIGH setting for 1 minute. If the dish is warm, then it is absorbing microwave energy. Do not use it in the microwave oven. 5 roaster drumsticks 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 3/4 cup finely chopped onion 1/2 cup orange marmalade (You can also use current jelly) 1/2 teaspoon curry powder In 9-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine butter and onion. Cover; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Blend in marmalade and curry powder; turn drumsticks in mixture. Place drumsticks with meatier portions toward outer edge of utensil; cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 12 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn chicken over, re-cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Let stand, covered, 15 minutes.

SAUCY MICROWAVE CHICKEN WINGSServes 4 To make an attractive presentation, try tucking the tip of each wing under to form a triangle. 1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 small clove garlic, minced 16 chicken wings In 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine all ingredients except wings; turn wings in mixture. Cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 8 minutes per pound, turning wings over 3 to 4 times during cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes.

TEX-MEX DRUMSTICKSServes 4 Removing skin from chicken is an easy way to reduce calories, and because moisture doesn't evaporate readily in microwave cooking, the chicken will remain juicy and flavorful. 6 chicken drumsticks 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans 1/4 cup fine, dry bread crumbs 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 cup taco-flavored or other pourable salad dressing Remove skin from drumsticks. On wax paper, combine pecans, bread crumbs, parsley and chili powder. Brush drumsticks with taco dressing, then roll in crumb mixture to coat all sides. Reserve crumbs and dressing. On microwave-safe roasting pan, arrange drumsticks in circular pattern, with meatier portions toward outside. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn drumsticks over, spoon on remaining dressing and sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture. Cover with a double thickness of paper towels. Complete cooking, removing paper towels during last 2 minutes. Let stand, uncovered, 5 minutes before serving.

MICROWAVE CHICKEN BREASTS PAPRIKASHServes 4 One way of avoiding having your eyes tear when the slicing the onion in this recipe is to do the cutting under running tap water. The vapors that hurt your eyes won't have a chance to get into the air, but instead will just wash down the drain. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 green peppers, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 can (8-ounces) tomato sauce 1 tablespoon sweet paprika 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste Ground pepper to taste 4 chicken breast halves 1 container (8-ounces) commercial sour cream 1 tablespoon flour In a 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine oil, peppers and onion. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, paprika, marjoram, salt, and pepper. On top of tomato mixture, place breasts bone side up with meatier portions toward outside. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH 5 minutes; reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) and cook 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn breasts over and stir mixture. Re-cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Let stand 5 minutes. Stir sour cream and flour into tomato mixture. Cover; microwave at HIGH 1 minute. Stir and let stand 2 minutes. Pour over chicken breasts.

CORNISH HENS WITH LEMON TARRAGON SAUCEServes 4 You can get more juice from a lemon if you roll it around on a flat surface first while pressing your palm against it fairly hard. This ruptures the little juice sacks. You'll also get more juice if the lemon is at room temperature rather than just out of the refrigerator. 2 fresh Cornish game hens 1/4 cup flour 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh tarragon, divided, or 1/2 teaspoon dried 1 cup chicken broth Juice of one lemon (about 1/4 cup) Salt and ground pepper to taste 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, or substitute green beans 2 teaspoons water With sharp knife or poultry shears, cut hens in half, lengthwise. Remove and discard backbone and skin. Coat hen pieces lightly with flour and sprinkle with half of tarragon. Place hens bone side up, with legs to inside, on a microwave-safe roasting utensil. In a 4-cup glass container, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, remaining tarragon and pepper. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 to 4 minutes, or until boiling. Baste hens with half of hot broth. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound combined weight of hens. Halfway through cooking time, turn hens bone side down and baste with remaining broth mixture. Re- cover and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Slice asparagus diagonally into 1-inch pieces and place in a 2-quart microwave-safe utensil with water. Cover; microwave at HIGH 3 TO 4 minutes. Let stand 2 minutes; drain and set aside. When ready to serve, add asparagus to lemon sauce and pour over hens.

MICROWAVE HENS JUBILEEServes 2 This is a close cousin of CHICKEN A LA MONTMORENCY, but it's spicier and less sweet. 2 fresh Cornish game hens 1 can (16-ounces) dark sweet cherries in syrup 1/4 cup dry sherry 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/2 cup chili sauce 1 clove garlic, minced Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste With poultry shears or sharp knife, split hens lengthwise, removing backbone, if desired. In 12 x 8 microwave-safe utensil, arrange hens, bone side up with meatier portions to outside. In 2-quart microwave-safe utensil, drain liquid from cherries; blend in sherry and cornstarch. Add cherries, chili sauce, garlic, salt and pepper. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 to 4 minutes, stirring once, until mixture begins to boil and thicken. Pour sauce over hens. Cover loosely with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 8 minutes per pound, turning the hens over halfway through cooking time. Re-cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes.

PINEAPPLE BAKED CORNISH HENSServes 4 Green peppers and most other fresh vegetables are ideal for microwaving. They retain their clear color and stay crunchy and fresh tasting. For extra color, substitute 1/2 sweet red pepper and 1/2 green pepper for the single whole green pepper. 2 fresh Cornish game hens 1 green pepper, cored, finely chopped 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 can (8-ounces) crushed pineapple in natural juices 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons dry mustard 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger With poultry shears or sharp knife, split hens lengthwise and remove and discard skin. Place hens bone side up on a microwave-safe 12 x 8-inch utensil, arranging with legs to inside. In a 2-quart microwave-safe utensil, place green pepper, onion and oil. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 2 to 3 minutes or until pepper is tender. Add pineapple, soy sauce, mustard and ginger; microwave at HIGH 1 to 2 minutes. Baste hen halves with half of pineapple mixture. Cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound combined weight of hens. Halfway through cooking time, turn hens bone side down and baste with remaining pineapple mixture. Re-cover and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Serve with pineapple sauce.

ROSEMARY HENS WITH LIGHT WINE GRAVYServes 4 Game hens are sold both fresh and frozen. If you've selected a frozen one, follow your microwave manufacturer's directions for defrosting and turn and rearrange the birds frequently for even defrosting. I've tried game hens both fresh and frozen, and I found that there's enough of a difference in flavor and tenderness to make me strongly prefer fresh. 2 Cornish game hens 6 sprigs fresh parsley 1 small onion, halved 1 clove garlic, halved 3 small carrots, peeled, cut in 1/2-inch slices (1 cup) 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and cut in wedges, or 6 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 medium zucchini, cut in 3/4-inch slices (1 cup) 1/4 pound mushrooms, quartered (about 1 cup) 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/4 cup dry white wine 1 and 1/2 teaspoon minced, fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 2 tablespoons cold water 2 teaspoons cornstarch Into each hen cavity, place 3 sprigs parsley, 1/2 onion and 1/2 garlic clove. Place carrots, tomatoes, zucchini and mushrooms in a microwave-safe baking dish. Combine chicken broth, wine and 1/4 teaspoon rosemary; pour over vegetables. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Arrange hens, breast side down, on top. Sprinkle with remaining rosemary and pepper. Cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 11 minutes per pound combined weight of hens. Halfway through cooking time, stir vegetables; turn hens breast side up and rotate dish. Re-cover with wax paper. Remove hens to serving platter, reserving juices for gravy. Using slotted spoon, arrange vegetables around hens and cover with foil; allow to stand 10 minutes. Cut hens in half to serve. To prepare gravy, in a 4 cup glass container, combine water and cornstarch. Slowly add reserved cooking juices (about 3/4 cup) from hens; stir to blend. Microwave at HIGH 2 minutes or until thickened, stirring twice. Serve with Cornish hens.

HONEY MUSTARD ROASTERServes 8 Covering is a key technique in successful microwave cooking. In a conventional oven a sweet honey-mustard basting sauce could overbrown. Instead, in the microwave it dries as the roaster skin cooks and it forms an attractive golden glaze on the bird. 1 whole roaster (about 6 pounds) 4 tablespoons butter or margarine 1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper Remove giblets from roaster. With rounded wooden picks, fasten skin across cavity and neck openings. Place roaster, breast side down, on microwave-safe roasting pan. Melt butter in a 1-cup glass measuring cup by microwaving at HIGH (100% power) 1 minute. Stir in honey and remaining ingredients; brush roaster with mixture and cover with wax paper. Microwave at HIGH 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) and cook 12 minutes per pound, brushing frequently with honey mixture. Halfway through cooking time, turn roaster breast side up; complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 20 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when thigh is pierced. Pour drippings from utensil into remaining sauce mixture in measuring cup; microwave at HIGH 2 minutes or until heated through. Serve sauce with roaster.

MEXICAN MICROWAVE CHICKEN CASSEROLE Leftover Mexican Chicken Casserole makes a fast and delicious taco filling. Shred chicken, reheat in sauce and serve with shredded lettuce and cheese and a dollop of sour cream. 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup) 1 large green pepper, chopped (1 cup) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 can (14.5 ounces) tomato sauce 2 tablespoons flour 1 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper 1 chicken cut in serving pieces 1 can (17-ounces) corn, drained In 3 to 5-quart microwave-safe utensil, combine butter, onion, pepper and garlic. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 to 5 minutes or until onion and pepper are tender. Stir in tomato sauce, flour, salt, cumin, oregano and pepper. Place chicken pieces, bone side up with meatier portions toward outside of utensil, on top of mixture. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) and cook 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn chicken pieces over; re- cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Remove chicken pieces to serving dish; cover. Add corn to sauce in utensil; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH 2 minutes. To serve, pour sauce over chicken.

PLUM-SPICED CHICKENServes 4 The plum sauce is a low-fat way to make the chicken develop an attractive color as it cooks in the microwave. 1 chicken, cut in half lengthwise 1 cup plum jelly or preserves 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/4 cup chopped onion 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional) Place chicken halves, skin side down, on microwave-safe roasting utensil, set aside. In a 4-cup glass container, combine jelly and remaining ingredients. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 4 minutes, stirring 3 times. Brush chicken halves with sauce; cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 to 12 minutes per pound, brushing chicken frequently with sauce. Halfway through cooking time, turn chicken halves over; brush with sauce. Re-cover with wax paper; complete cooking. Let stand, covered 15 minutes.

STUFFED CHICKEN CHARLESTON STYLEServes 4 The microwave oven makes it possible to make this succulent roast chicken and all the trimmings in less than an hour. To complete the meal with "baked" potatoes, you can microwave them during the chicken's standing time. 1 whole chicken 4 strips uncooked bacon, diced 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 1/2 cups packaged cornbread stuffing 1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans 5 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted, divided 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons dry sherry, divided 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 1 teaspoon salt or to taste Ground pepper to taste Remove giblets. In 1 1/2-quart microwave-safe utensil place diced bacon; cover with paper towel. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 3 minutes or until crisp, stirring twice. With slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towel to drain; set aside. Reserve drippings. In same 1 1/2-quart microwave-safe utensil, combine onion and celery; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH 2 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine onions and celery with stuffing, pecans, and cooked bacon. In cup, blend 2 tablespoons butter, 3 tablespoons sherry and water; toss with stuffing. Spoon stuffing loosely into cavity and neck openings of chicken. With rounded wooden picks, fasten skin across cavity and neck openings. Combine 1 tablespoon butter with 1 teaspoon sherry; brush on chicken. Place chicken, breast side down, on microwave- safe roasting utensil; cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound, brushing chicken frequently with butter-sherry mixture and drippings. Halfway through cooking time, turn chicken breast side up; re-cover with wax paper. Complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 15 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when thigh is pierced Pour pan drippings into a 2-cup glass container. Add 1/2 cup sherry to roasting utensil to loosen pan juices; pour into container with drippings. Microwave at HIGH 3 minutes; stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter and parsley. Serve chicken, sliced, with stuffing and gravy.

CHEESY MICROWAVE THIGHSServes 4 Chicken thighs and drumsticks are fairly uniform in size, making them an ideal choice for quick cooking in the microwave. 6 chicken thighs 4 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided 1 cup finely chopped onion 2 tablespoons flour 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1 cup milk 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons white wine Pinch freshly grated or ground nutmeg Minced, fresh parsley (optional) Remove and discard skin from thighs. In a 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine 2 tablespoons butter and onion. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes. Arrange thighs in a circular pattern on top of onions. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn thighs over; re-cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Place remaining butter in 4-cup glass container; microwave at HIGH 30 to 50 seconds. Blend in flour and salt; gradually stir in milk, mixing well. Microwave at HIGH 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until mixture boils and thickens. Add cheeses, wine and nutmeg; stir until cheese is melted. Pour sauce over chicken thighs; cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Garnish with parsley if desired.

CHICKEN MARENGOServes 3-4 Frank admires Napoleon because he was such an effective leader and motivator of men. But Frank has another reason to like the famous French general. Napoleon liked chicken so much that during his campaigns, he ate it almost every night. In 1800 when Napoleon was fighting in Italy, the supply wagons were late and his chef had to scour the countryside for whatever food he could find. The result was a chicken dish made with olive oil, mushrooms, tomato, garlic and other ingredients available from the nearby farms. Napoleon liked the dish so much that he named it "Chicken Marengo," in honor of the battlefield where he had just been fighting, and from then on ordered it served to him after every battle. 6 chicken thighs 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 cups coarsely chopped fresh plum tomatoes 1/2 cup chopped green pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons minced, fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste Remove and discard skin from thighs. In 3-quart microwave- safe utensil, combine remaining ingredients; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes, stirring twice. Arrange thighs in circular pattern on top of tomato mixture; spoon mixture over thighs. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn thighs over; re-cover and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes before serving.

CHINESE CHICKENServes 4 The shape of foods affects cooking results. Thin areas cook faster than thicker ones, so meatier portions should always be placed toward the outer edge of the utensil where microwave energy is greater. 4 chicken drumsticks 4 chicken thighs 1/4 cup melted butter 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper 1/8 teaspoon minced, fresh ginger 1 can (3-ounces) chow mein noodles 1/4 cup sliced almonds Salt to taste Remove and discard skin from drumsticks and thighs. In small bowl, mix butter, soy sauce, pepper and ginger. In blender or food processor fitted with steel blade, finely chop chow mein noodles, almonds and salt; transfer to wax paper. Brush chicken with soy mixture, then roll in noodle mixture to coat all sides. Arrange on microwave-safe roasting pan, with meatier portions toward outside; cover with wax paper. Reserve remaining soy and noodle mixture. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time turn legs and thighs over; spoon on remaining soy mixture and sprinkle with remaining noodle mixture. Cover with a double thickness of paper towels. Complete cooking, remove paper towels during last 2 minutes. Let stand, uncovered, 5 minutes before serving.

DRUMSTICKS LITTLE ITALY STYLEServes 4 Do you know how to tell when rice is done? The aim of cooking rice is to have all the little starch granules inside each grain swell with water but not burst. You can tell that rice is undercooked if you pinch a grain and feel a hard or gritty core. You can tell that it's overcooked if you look at a grain closely and find that the edges are split and ragged. It's perfectly cooked if the grain is the same smooth shape as the uncooked grain, only puffed, swollen and soft. 1 cup chopped, canned tomatoes 3/4 cup long grain rice 1 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup dry white wine 1 medium onion, chopped 1 large clove garlic, crushed 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 5 roaster drumsticks Salt and ground pepper to taste 2 tablespoons or more minced, fresh parsley In a 3 quart microwave-safe utensil combine tomatoes and rice. Stir in broth and wine; add onion, garlic, thyme, and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at high (100% power) 5 minutes. Arrange drumsticks over top of mixture, with meatiest portions to the outer edge of utensil. Re-cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes then at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 12 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time stir and turn drumsticks over. Re-cover and complete the cooking. Let stand, covered 10 minutes before serving. Test for doneness after standing; juices should run clear with no hint of pink when drumstick is pierced. Season with salt and pepper. Add parsley to rice mixture for garnish.

OLIVE MICROWAVED CHICKENMakes 6 Drumsticks When you saw the title of this recipe, did you hesitate because you were concerned that the calories in olives could wreck your diet? Not to worry! Olives are actually a fairly low calorie food, with the average one having only 4-5 calories. The largest jumbo olive has only 12 calories. 6 chicken drumsticks 1 cup slivered onion strips 1/2 cup slivered green pepper strips 1/2 cup thawed lemonade concentrate 1/2 cup ketchup 1/4 cup sliced pimento-stuffed olives 1/4 cup sliced pitted ripe olives 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 clove garlic, minced Remove and discard skin from drumsticks. In a 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine remaining ingredients; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes, stirring once. Turn drumsticks in sauce to coat. Arrange drumsticks in circular pattern in sauce with meatier portions toward outside of utensil. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn drumsticks and spoon sauce on top. Re-cover with wax paper; complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes before serving.

PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH-COUNTRY DRUMSTICKSServes 2 When you're buying the apples for this recipe, you can tell which ones are Red Delicious by looking at the base of the apples. A Red Delicious always has five knobs or points at the base. 5 roaster drumsticks Salt and ground pepper to taste 6 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided 1/2 cup apple juice (1/4 cup for microwave) 1 tablespoon soy sauce (1-1/2 teaspoons for microwave) 1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly-packed (1/8 cup for microwave) 2 Red Delicious apples, peeled, cored and cut into 8 wedges each 2 tablespoons sugar Conventional Method: Season drumsticks with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add drumsticks and brown for 4 to 5 minutes per side. In a measuring cup combine apple juice, soy sauce and brown sugar and pour over drumsticks. Cover and simmer 20 minutes. Turn and simmer 25 minutes longer. Ten minutes before end of cooking time, in another skillet, over medium-high heat, melt remaining butter. Add apple wedges and brown on one side. Sprinkle with sugar and turn. Brown other side. Transfer chicken to serving dish and top with apple wedges. Spoon sauce over top. aMicrowave Oven: Place 2 tablespoons of butter in a 9-inch microwave-safe utensil. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 40 seconds. Combine 1/4 cup apple juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce and 1/8 cup firmly packed brown sugar with melted butter. Place drumsticks in apple juice mixture and turn to coat well. Arrange drumsticks with meatiest portions toward outer edge of utensil. Cover with wax paper. Microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 12 minutes per pound. Half way through cooking time turn drumsticks and spoon sauce over each. Re-cover and complete cooking. Let stand, covered, 5 to 10 minutes. Place 2 tablespoons butter in a 2-quart microwave-safe utensil. Microwave at HIGH 40 seconds. Sprinkle butter with 2 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar; stir. Place apple wedges in brown sugar mixture; toss gently to coat. Microwave at HIGH 3 minutes, stir. Microwave an additional 3 minutes or until apples are tender. Transfer chicken to serving dish and top with apple wedges. Spoon sauce over top.

ROASTER THIGHS IN WINEServes 4 For the longest shelf life and the best flavor, don't wash the mushrooms called for in this recipe until just before using them. And don't soak them, just lightly mist them or wipe them with a damp paper towel. With soaking, they easily become waterlogged and lose some of their flavor. 4 roaster boneless thigh cutlets 4 strips uncooked bacon, diced 1 cup Burgundy or other dry, red wine 2 tablespoons cognac or brandy 16 small whole onions, peeled 8 ounces sliced, fresh mushrooms, 2 cups 3 tablespoons flour 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley 1 bay leaf 1 1/2 teaspoons minced, fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried Cut thigh cutlets in half. In 3-quart microwave-safe utensil, place bacon; microwave at HIGH (100% power) until crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Combine wine and Cognac and add to utensil with remaining ingredients; stir well. Arrange thighs, with thicker portions toward outer edge, on top of vegetables. Cover with wax paper; microwave at HIGH 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) and cook 12 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, stir vegetable mixture and turn cutlets over. Let stand, covered, 15 minutes before serving.

SPICY AFRICAN DRUMSTICKSServes 4 If you eliminate the crushed pepper in this recipe, it could be a dish children would love. Be sure the peanuts you use in the recipe are fresh. Once a package has been opened, keep it in the refrigerator since peanuts rapidly go rancid. As an emergency first aid measure for peanuts that aren't as fresh as you wish they were, try this tip I got from a peanut farmer in Georgia. Put the peanuts in a sieve and pour boiling water over them. The hot water will wash away some of the oils that are responsible for the off-flavor. 6 chicken drumsticks 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 cup chopped onion 1 garlic clove, minced 1 can (16-ounces) tomato puree 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/4 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup chopped peanuts Remove and discard skin from drumsticks. In a 12 x 8-inch microwave-safe utensil, combine oil, onion and garlic. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 5 minutes or until onions are tender. Stir in tomato puree, salt and red pepper. Arrange drumsticks in utensil with meatier portion toward outside; spoon tomato sauce over top. Cover with wax paper; microwave at MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power) 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn drumsticks over; re-cover with wax paper and microwave remaining time. Remove drumsticks to serving platter; cover with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Stir peanut butter and peanuts into tomato sauce. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH 2 minutes. To serve, spoon sauce over drumsticks.

CORNUCOPIA STUFFED ROASTERServes 8 A roaster stuffed with vegetables and rice is a tasty meal in one dish. The stuffing doesn't increase the cooking time, which is about one hour less in a microwave than required for conventional roasting. 1 whole roaster (about 6 pounds) 1/4 cup hot water 1/4 cup butter or margarine 1 cup frozen peas and carrots 1 1/2 cups cooked rice 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon salt or to taste Browning spray (optional) Remove giblets. In a 1-cup glass measuring cup, place water and butter; microwave at HIGH (100% power) 1 minute. In 1-quart microwave-safe utensil, place peas and carrots; cover. Microwave at HIGH 4 minutes, stirring once; drain. In a small bowl, combine rice, melted butter mixture, peas and carrots, parsley, thyme and salt. Place in cavity of roaster; with rounded wooden picks, fasten skin across cavity opening and at neck. Place roaster, breast side down, on microwave-safe roasting pan. Spray with browning spray or brush roaster with melted butter if desired; cover with wax paper. Microwave at HIGH 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power). Cook 12 minutes per pound, brushing with drippings several times during cooking. Halfway through cooking time, turn roaster over, using paper towels to protect hands. Pour off drippings and reserve, if desired. Baste roaster with drippings or use browning spray; cover with wax paper and complete cooking. Let stand, covered with aluminum foil, 20 minutes. Test for doneness after standing; juice should run clear with no hint of pink when thigh is pierced. To serve, spoon stuffing into serving bowl and slice roaster. CHICKEN WING PAELLAServes 4-6 Paella is a Spanish dish with a mixture of rice, vegetables, meat and sometimes shellfish. I lived in Spain for a couple of years and came to the conclusion that there must be almost as many versions of Paella as there are Spanish cooks$which means that you have a lot of latitude to vary the ingredients according to what you have handy in your refrigerator. I like this better the next day, when the different flavors have had a chance to "marry." 10 chicken wings 1 pound sweet Italian sausage links 1 teaspoon browning sauce 1 large onion, chopped 1 sweet red pepper, cut into thin strips 1 medium-sized zucchini, chopped 1 can (16-ounces) tomatoes, undrained 1/2 cup hot water 1 teaspoon salt or to taste 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco 2 cups hot cooked rice 1 cup frozen peas, thawed Cut wing-tip section from wings. Set tips aside to cook later in soup or stew, if desired. Brush sausages with browning sauce; cut into 1-inch pieces. In 3-quart microwave-safe dish, place sausage pieces; cover with wax paper. Microwave at HIGH (100% power) 6 to 7 minutes, or until sausage loses its pink color, stirring twice. With slotted spoon remove sausage. To drippings in dish, add onion, red pepper and zucchini; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH 5 minutes, stirring twice. Add tomatoes, browned sausages, water, salt, oregano, paprika, turmeric and Tabasco; stir to blend. Arrange chicken wings in circular pattern on top of tomato mixture. Cover with plastic wrap; microwave at HIGH 5 minutes. Reduce power to MEDIUM-HIGH (70% power); cook 10 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking time, turn wings over; re-cover and complete cooking. Stir in hot cooked rice and peas; microwave at HIGH 3 minutes. To warm for serving, cover with plastic wrap to speed cooking and microwave at HIGH until heated through. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.