How to Microwave Chicken Wings

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

4 oz
  • 4 oz
  • 8 oz
  • 16 oz
  • 32 oz

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

Microwave oven by power - 700w
700w
  • 700w
  • 800w
  • 900w
  • 1000w
  • 1100w
  • 1200w

Recommended 

Dish

2.5-Cup Glass Square Dish Multipack

Ingredients

  • 4 oz chicken wings or drumettes (about 2 pieces)
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

  1. Place the chicken wings in an Anyday dish and season with salt and pepper. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 6

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

    [[video-power]]

    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

    for 3-4 minutes, or until the wings are pale white and cooked through. You can check for doneness using a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  3. Toss the chicken wings with your favorite sauce and enjoy.

Suggestions

  • Classic Buffalo Wings: Toss the cooked chicken wings in a mixture of hot sauce, butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Serve with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • Lemon pepper wings: Season the wings with a combination of lemon zest, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of olive oil. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
  • Sweet Chili Lime Wings: Coat the wings in a sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Elote-style wings: After cooking, toss the wings in a seasoning mix of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and lime zest. Top with crumbled Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
  • Discover more chicken recipes by exploring our collection here!

Recipe Notes

  • The wings can be placed in a preheated air fryer at 450°F (230°C) for a quick crisping of the skin.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Compatible Dishes for this Recipe

Microwave Match Up:Chicken Wings

See for yourself— microwaving chicken wings is simply faster, start to finish.

Appliance Cook Time
Microwave in an Anyday dish 3-5 mins
Stovetop* 15-20 mins
Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* 20-25 mins
*Includes preheat time

All You Need to Know About Cooking Chicken Wings in the Microwave

Ingredient Power Level Cook Time
4 oz party wings (about 2) 6 3-4 mins
8 oz party wings (about 4) 6 4-5 mins
16 oz party wings (about 8) 6 9-10 mins
32 oz party wings (about 16) 6 14-15 mins
Cook time calculated for 700w microwave

Can I cook chicken wings in the microwave?

Yes, chicken wings can be cooked quickly and efficiently in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Cooking chicken wings plain (without seasoning) allows you to customize them after cooking with your preferred sauces and seasonings.  Enjoy these fast chicken wings as an appetizer, or serve with a veggie side for a full dinner! Discover more chicken wing recipes by exploring our collection here!

How do I know when chicken wings are fully cooked?

Chicken wings are done when they are no longer pink inside, and the juices run clear. To make sure the chicken wings are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Can I crisp up chicken wings after cooking them in the microwave?

Yes, while the microwave cooks the wings through, you might be missing the crispy skin. Transfer them to a skillet, air fryer, or oven for a crispy finish. Simply sear them for a few minutes in a hot skillet or broil (or air fry!) them at a high temperature until the skin is golden and crispy.

How do I store cooked chicken wings?

Once cooled, cover the Anyday dish with its lid and refrigerate the chicken wings for up to 3 days. Chicken wings can be seasoned or sauced just before reheating for added flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat chicken wings?

To reheat from the fridge, place the wings in an Anyday dish, cover with the lid, and microwave on full power for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. For frozen wings, microwave on full power for 4-6 minutes, stirring or flipping as needed to ensure even heating.

Can I season chicken wings before cooking them in the microwave?

Yes, you can add basic seasonings like salt, pepper, or garlic powder before cooking. However, cooking them plain allows you to customize the seasoning or sauce afterward to suit different recipes or preferences.

How can I use plain cooked chicken wings?

Plain cooked chicken wings are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Toss them in your favorite sauce for a quick snack, season them for game-day appetizers, or shred the meat for salads, tacos, or soups. Discover more chicken wing recipes by exploring our collection here!

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