How much should over-the-range microwave stick out?
As much as the microwave needs it to. They almost always stick out some, both forward and below the side cabinets.
Most upper cabinets are ~12&quot; deep. My microwave comes out another 2-1/2&quot; or so beyond the face of the cabinets (without the handle) and hangs below about 2&quot;. The top mounting screws are maybe 10&quot; from the wall, so as long as your cabinet has that depth and is robust enough to support the weight, all good.