Delicious Whole Chicken in Oven: Easy Recipe for Busy Hosts

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the challenges and experiences of Pampered Chef consultants regarding cooking a whole chicken in an oven versus a microwave during cooking shows. Participants share their personal experiences and techniques, as well as the logistical issues that arise from varying kitchen equipment sizes.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses confusion about how to adapt a cooking demonstration after discovering the host's microwave is too small for the planned recipe.
  • Another participant shares their experience of cooking whole chickens in a DCB, noting that it typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours at 350°F or 375°F, usually with the lid on for moisture.
  • Several users mention the idea of cooking the chicken beforehand and bringing it to the show, allowing for a different demonstration while still using the chicken in a recipe.
  • One participant recounts a past experience where they had to adapt their cooking plans due to a similar issue with microwave size, highlighting the importance of checking equipment beforehand.
  • Another participant suggests that cooking at a higher temperature, like 450°F, could reduce cooking time to about 30 minutes, although this is not universally agreed upon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to cooking the chicken and adapting to equipment limitations, with no clear consensus emerging on the optimal cooking method or time.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal anecdotes related to their experiences with cooking shows, emphasizing the variability in kitchen equipment and the need for flexibility in demonstration plans.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling unexpected challenges during cooking demonstrations may find the shared experiences relevant.

candiejayne
Messages
1,526
I was going to do the 30 minute chicken at an upcoming show, but my host just called and said her husband was out of his mind to pick that because she has a tiny microwave. I know I can do it in the oven, but how long, at what temp, and lid on or off?!?

Any help would be appreciated!
 
I have done whole chickens in my DCB - and depending on the size- I usually take about 1 hr to 1.5 (for a bigger bird). I want to say that's at a 350 F or 375. (Any Betty Crocker or Good Housekeeping type cookbook should have the info on roasting a chicken.) And I usually do it with the lid on- at least for most of the time. It will result in a very moist bird.That's just how I do it. Others my have different experience/technique. :D But maybe you can ask the host to tell you how tiny is "tiny". She may think it's small, but it may actually be large enough- you never know.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
I went over and saw it, it's the smallest microwave I have ever seen... My toaster oven which can hold 6 slices of bread at once is about the same size or even a little bigger. They are really upset about it, but not for them, but because they want me to be able to demo it the way that was planned. They don't want me to do an oven chicken now... they still want me to micro it. Now they want me to bring MY microwave... LOL! ummmm.... yeah... I don't think so! I told them I would come up with something else, but I mailed the invites out saying we'd have a 30-minute chicken, so I'm kinda baffled as to what to do right now. LOL I may be taking my microwave! OY! This better be a HUGE show! If they weren't "friends" I wouldn't even be considering it. I work for her husband on a contract basis, I'm stuck in the feeling of being obligated to caterer to them. I shouldn't feel that way, and I know they aren't the kind of people that would want me to feel that way, but I do...
 
Last edited:
Well, live and learn, right? You'll know what to ask or be more specific on next time, that's for sure! (And the rest of us will learn from this too!) :D let us know how it turns out!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
:) I will... this is going to be one of the most interesting showes I'll ever do, not sure if thats a good thing or bad thing LOL!
 
I thought I had read somewhere on here that if you put the oven at 450 degrees, it would only take half an hour. You might want to look into this on one or the threads.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Thanks, I did some searching before I started this thread, but I'll search some more tomorrow. I'm off to bed now! Good night!
 
Maybe you could make the chicken at your house just before you leave, keep it covered in the DCB (it's supposed to rest anyway), then make one of the suggested salads or sandwiches with the chicken?

I did my first 30 minute chicken show last Friday night. It was awesome, so relaxing and fun. The chicken is so easy. After I put the chicken in the microwave, I joked that this was probably the shortest cooking show they've ever been to. We also made the garlic bites, and I brought a couple of potatoes so that they could try the mandoline. The host's husband said that it was probably the moistest chicken he's ever eaten.

Good luck!

Kelly
 
I live in Virginia, but went to California for Easter, and a friend agreed to host a show while I was there. It was held at her church, and she wanted to do the Pork Loin Fajita. I asked her to measure the microwave at her church to make sure it was big enough for the DCB. She checked it out and wrote back (most of the communication was by e-mail and private message on Facebook) that is was a standard sized microwave. I arrived in SF the morning of the show, went to the church that evening as planned, got the pork loin prepped (I wanted it to be a quick show, as the show was being held during the time these ladies usually meet for Bible Study, and they're used to being out of there within an hour and a half), and went to put the DCB in the microwave. It was just thatmuch too small! Ok, we'll do it in the oven (they have a full kitchen), but now it's going to take way more than 10 minutes, and throw off the timing of the show.

The men's group came to the rescue. They have a larger microwave, and someone brought that over! Show still ran long though, as there were twice as many guests as expected!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Kelly!!! GREAT IDEA! I may do that!!!! I offered to prepare the chicken in my micro and bring it, but then she felt bad that I couldn't demo it. I'll definately do another recipe with the chicken in it and bring it prepared! woohoo! you are a life saver!

Sarah, how did the show turn out with so many extra people? I know you were out of town and not looking for bookings, but did you atleast do well with sales?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients do I need for the Delicious Whole Chicken in Oven recipe?

For this recipe, you will need a whole chicken, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer, such as rosemary or thyme. You can also add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete meal.

How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in the oven?

The cooking time for a whole chicken typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours at 375°F (190°C). The exact time will depend on the size of the chicken, so it's important to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time by seasoning it and letting it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it even more delicious when cooked.

What kitchen tools do I need to make this recipe?

You will need a roasting pan or baking dish, a meat thermometer, and basic kitchen utensils like a cutting board and knife for preparation. A basting brush can also be helpful for applying oil and seasonings evenly.

Can I use a frozen chicken for this recipe?

It is not recommended to cook a frozen chicken directly in the oven, as it can lead to uneven cooking. It's best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and safely.

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