There is so much to know about Henny Penny ovens. This post explores almost every aspect of these versatile pieces of commercial kitchen equipment, including a long list of capabilities and requirements.
| Henny Penny Pros | Henny Penny Cons |
| Performs multiple functions and replace multiple appliances, including a grill, steamer, and convection oven | Is a significant investment |
| Comes with an automatic cleaning process that reduces labor time | Requires a quality water hook-up (though DynaSteam2 boilerless steam technology reduces the risk of lime build-up in the unit and part failure) |
| Stores 50 multi-stage programs | Requires training so employees can learn to use and clean |
| Available in gas and electric models |
Pros of Henny Penny Ovens
Henny Penny Ovens can replace other appliances.
Henny Penny ovens are capable of using dry and moist heat, or a combination of both, to prepare food. In essence, this means Henny Penny ovens can poach, roast, steam, braise, smoke, and dehydrate, and even work as a heated holding cabinet. These ovens are also incredibly accurate, maintaining a precise combination of steam and heat via easy-to-use controls and a high-resolution touch screen. Humidity levels can be set in 25% increments. A 5-speed auto-reverse fan ensures fast and even cooking of all product in the oven.
These ovens are also versatile enough to fit in almost food service operation. Henny Penny combi ovens come in a variety of electric and gas models with a small footprint that fits in even the most compact spaces. Bigger Henny Penny ovens also have the capacity for large-scale operation and can hold more product with the Crosswise racking system.
Henny Penny combi ovens can store 50 multi-stage programs.
Because it offers multiple functions, Henny Penny ovens can cook proteins, potatoes, pizza, pastries, rice, cakes, fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other menu items. In all, the Henny Penny combi ovens can hold as many as 50 multi-stage programs, making them easy-to-use and reducing labor time. The units also come with a USB port, making adding programs easy and convenient.
Combi ovens are easy-to-clean.
In addition to easy preparation and cooking, Henny Penny combi ovens are equipped with an automatic cleaning process. The Wave Clean cleaning system sanitizes the unit to HACCP standards with a 2-in-1 cleaner and rinse aid cartridge. The automatic cleaning process minimizes risk to employees because there is no contact with chemicals. The Wave Clean also reduces the need for personal protective equipment for cleaning and lengthy trainings.
Cons of Henny Penny Ovens
Combi ovens are an investment.
The price of a Henny Penny combi oven is typically more than a single convection oven or steamer. However, these ovens pay for themselves when calculating the total cost of the three appliances (and heated holding oven) it replaces. Henny Penny ovens also double the capacity with the Crosswise racking system, which realizes a quick return-on-investment. The cost of a Henny Penny combi oven—and cost savings—can be calculated by contacting a commercial equipment professional.
Henny Penny ovens require a water hook-up and drain.
Henny Penny ovens provide moist heat, meaning they require a water source. In some cases, the water can cause lime build-up and damage part. To avoid any issues, owners and managers should have their water source tested before purchasing a Henny Penny oven. The ovens may not be easy to move around in the space because of the hook-up and drain required.
These ovens require a bit more training.
Unfortunately, Henny Penny combi ovens tend to be underutilized because food service owners and managers don’t understand all the capabilities of these appliances. While it may require a bit more training, Henny Penny ovens have a high return-on-investment, both in operating costs and in capacity boosts.