If meat has been overcooked in the microwave and has become tough, there are a few techniques you can try to make it more tender:
Marinating: Place the overcooked meat in a marinade to help break down the fibers and add moisture. Use an acidic marinade, such as one with vinegar or citrus juice, as the acidity can help tenderize the meat. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cooking it again.
Moist cooking methods: Consider using moist cooking methods like braising or stewing to help tenderize the meat. These methods involve cooking the meat slowly in liquid, which helps to break down the tough fibers. You can use a slow cooker, a stovetop pot, or an oven for these techniques.
Thin slicing: If the meat is thick and tough, you can try thin slicing it across the grain. This cuts through the muscle fibers and can make the meat more tender to chew.
Adding moisture: If the meat is dry, you can try adding moisture back to it. This can be done by serving it with a sauce, gravy, or even by briefly simmering it in a small amount of broth or liquid to rehydrate it.
Resting: Allow the overcooked meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it slightly more tender.
While these techniques can help improve the tenderness of overcooked meat, it's important to note that they may not completely reverse the effects of excessive cooking. It's always best to monitor the cooking process carefully to prevent overcooking in the first place.