Best Ways to Reheat Fried Chicken
If you have leftover fried chicken and want to enjoy it as deliciously crispy as when it was freshly cooked, reheating it the right way is key. Reheating fried chicken can be tricky because it can turn soggy or dry if not done properly. Luckily, there are several effective methods to bring back its crispy exterior and juicy inside. In this section, we’ll explore the best ways to reheat fried chicken and share practical tips to make it taste great again.
Oven Method
The oven is one of the best ways to reheat fried chicken if you want to preserve its crunchiness. It heats the chicken evenly and helps keep the crispy coating intact. To do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. If you don’t have a wire rack, use a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little oil. This helps restore some moisture and promotes crispiness.
- Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking. Using a wire rack helps hot air circulate around the chicken and keeps the coating crispy. Avoid wrapping the chicken in foil, as steam can make the coating soggy.
Skillet or Pan Method
Reheating fried chicken in a skillet is quick and keeps the crispy skin. It’s especially handy if you only have a few pieces. Here’s how:
- Heat a tablespoon or two of oil (vegetable or canola oil works well) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the fried chicken pieces. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece space to reheat evenly.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until heated through and crispy.
- Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
This method crisps up the outside beautifully while keeping the meat moist. Just be careful not to burn the coating, and make sure the chicken reaches a safe temperature.
Microwave Method (Quickest, but Less Crispy)
If you’re short on time, the microwave is the fastest way to reheat fried chicken. However, it can make the coating a little soggy. To improve the results:
- Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel.
- Cover it loosely with another paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway through. If needed, continue in 30-second bursts.
After microwaving, you can quickly crisp up the coating by popping the chicken into a hot skillet for a minute or two. This two-step process helps restore some crunch.
Slow Cooker or Air Fryer
While less common, these methods can also work well. The slow cooker is useful if you’re reheating large quantities, but it can make the coating soggy if not careful. To avoid this, use low heat and keep the lid slightly ajar for some air circulation.
The air fryer is excellent for quick reheats that keep the chicken crispy. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5–10 minutes. Shake or flip the chicken halfway through for even crispiness.
Practical Tips for Perfect Reheating
- Always check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) before eating.
- For best results, reheat chicken until just hot to avoid drying out the meat.
- Adding a tiny bit of broth or water and covering with foil can help retain moisture during oven reheating.
- If your leftover chicken is very greasy, blot off excess oil before reheating.
Tips for Keeping It Crispy
If you want your fried chicken to stay crispy after reheating, a few simple techniques can make a big difference. Reheated fried chicken often loses its crunch and can turn soggy, but with the right approach, you can bring back that fresh-out-of-the-fryer texture. Let’s explore some friendly and practical tips to keep your fried chicken deliciously crispy.
1. Use the Oven Instead of the Microwave
The microwave might be quick, but it often makes fried chicken soggy because it heats unevenly and adds moisture. Instead, the oven or toaster oven works best for maintaining crispiness. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to about 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, preventing it from sitting in its own moisture and becoming soggy.
2. Keep It Dry Before Reheating
Before reheating, check if the fried chicken is moist or greasy. If it’s overly greasy, gently blot it with paper towels to remove excess oil. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so the drier the surface, the better the chances of keeping it crispy once reheated.
3. Reheat in the Oven for Best Results
As mentioned, the oven is your friend here. Spread the chicken pieces evenly on a wire rack. This way, hot air can reach all sides, helping the breading stay crispy. Reheat for about 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is hot all the way through. You can check with a meat thermometer, aiming for at least 165°F (74°C). Avoid covering the chicken with foil during reheating, as trapping steam can make the crust soggy.
4. Use a Little Spray of Oil
If your chicken looks a bit dry after reheating, you can give it a quick spritz of cooking oil or lightly brush it with oil. This helps restore some of the crispiness and gives it a freshly fried look. Just a light coating is enough—no need to drown it in oil.
5. Avoid the Microwave and Stovetop Methods
While it might be tempting to use a microwave for speed, it’s not ideal for crispy reheating. The stovetop can work in a pinch, but it’s tricky to get all sides evenly hot without overcooking. For best crispy results, stick with the oven or toaster oven method.
6. Serve Immediately
Once reheated, serve the fried chicken right away for the best texture. The longer it sits, the more the crispiness can diminish. If possible, avoid stacking or covering the pieces before serving to keep that crunch intact.
Extra Tips for Perfect Crispy Reheat
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow good airflow.
- If reheating multiple pieces, space them out evenly.
- For a quick fix, you can briefly reheat individual pieces in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil, turning frequently until crispy.
Oven vs Microwave: Which Is Better?
When it comes to reheating fried chicken, many home cooks wonder whether an oven or microwave will give the best results. Both appliances have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on what you’re looking for in taste, texture, and speed.
The microwave is often the fastest way to reheat food. If you are in a hurry, just place the fried chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely with a paper towel, and heat on high for 1–2 minutes. Keep in mind, though, that microwaving can sometimes make fried chicken lose its crispiness and become soggy. The moisture from the microwave tends to steam the breading, softening the crust.
On the other hand, the oven is great if you want to restore that crispy, crunchy exterior. To reheat fried chicken in an oven, preheat it to around 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around it. Reheat for about 10–15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. This method helps maintain the original texture and flavor, making the chicken taste almost as good as fresh.
There are some important tips to get the best results with each method. When microwaving, try to arrange the pieces evenly and avoid overcrowding. If the chicken is thick, consider slicing it so heat can penetrate better. To help keep the crust crispy, place a paper towel under the chicken and cover it loosely to prevent splatters.
For oven reheating, a key trick is to add a little oil or melted butter over the chicken before baking. This can help refresh the crispy coating and add flavor. Using a wire rack not only keeps the chicken from sitting in its own juices but also allows heat to reach all sides evenly.
Some common mistakes to avoid include reheating fried chicken for too long, which can dry it out, or microwaving straight from the fridge without allowing the chicken to come to room temperature first. If you’re short on time but want better crust, try the microwave briefly to warm the chicken and then finish with a quick stint in the oven for crispiness.
Ultimately, if you need quick leftovers and don’t mind a slightly softer crust, the microwave is your best bet. But for the most flavorful, crispy fried chicken, the oven clearly has the advantage. You can even combine methods — microwave first to warm, then oven to crisp — for a perfect balance of speed and texture.
Step-by-Step Reheating Guide
Reheating fried chicken so it stays crispy and delicious can be a bit tricky, but with the right approach, you’ll get great results every time. The key is to reheat it safely while maintaining the juicy interior and crunchy coating. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you do just that.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by taking the fried chicken out of the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps it reheat more evenly and prevents the outside from burning before the inside is heated through.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). A good temperature for reheating fried chicken is warm enough to heat the meat thoroughly while keeping the outside crispy. Avoid higher temperatures, which can burn the coating, or too low, which may make the chicken soggy.
3. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Placing a wire rack on top of the sheet is optional but helpful. The rack allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crisp on all sides. If you don’t have a rack, just place the chicken directly on the lined sheet.
4. Reheat the Chicken
Place the fried chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet or rack. Space them out so they aren’t touching. Put the tray in the preheated oven and heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Larger pieces, like drumsticks, may take a bit longer.
5. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C), which is the safe temperature for reheated cooked chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut into the thickest part to see if it’s hot all the way through.
6. Optional: For Extra Crispiness
If after reheating the chicken still isn’t crispy enough, you can broil it for 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. Alternatively, briefly flipping the pieces and returning them to the oven can help heat evenly and crisp up the coating.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the fried chicken to rest for a couple of minutes after removing from the oven. Then, serve while hot for the best flavor and crunch. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that tastes close to freshly cooked!
- Tip: If you’re in a hurry, reheating in a toaster oven or air fryer at 375°F works well for quick, crispy results.
- Tip: Avoid microwaving fried chicken if you want to keep the crust crispy. It tends to make the coating soggy.
- Mistake to avoid: Reheating at too high a temperature can burn the coating, leaving a bitter taste.
Following these steps will help you enjoy your fried chicken leftovers just as much as the first time. Reheating properly ensures safety, taste, and texture, making your leftovers worth savoring.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Reheating fried chicken can be tricky because it’s easy to end up with dry, soggy, or unevenly heated leftovers. Knowing the common mistakes and how to prevent them will help you enjoy your fried chicken just as much the second time around. It’s all about maintaining that crispy exterior and juicy interior while ensuring the chicken is heated safely and evenly.
One major mistake is using the microwave to reheat fried chicken. While quick, microwaves tend to heat unevenly and can turn the crispy coating soggy. Instead, opt for methods that preserve the crunch, like using an oven or skillet. Another error is not preheating your equipment properly, which can cause uneven heating and soggy spots.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reheating in the microwave: Microwaves heat from the inside out and tend to make fried chicken soggy because of the steam that builds up. If you must use a microwave, place a paper towel under the chicken to absorb moisture and use medium power. However, for the best results, avoid this method if you want crispy leftovers.
- Skipping preheating the oven or skillet: Putting cold chicken directly into a hot oven or skillet can lead to uneven heating and soggy results. Always preheat your oven to around 375°F (190°C) or your skillet on medium heat before adding the chicken.
- Overcrowding the pan or baking sheet: Crowding causes the chicken to steam rather than crisp up. Arrange pieces with space between them so the heat circulates evenly and the coating stays crispy.
- Using too much oil or covering the chicken: Covering the chicken or adding extra oil can trap steam, making the coating soggy instead of crispy. It’s best to reheat uncovered or loosely covered to let excess moisture escape.
- Ignoring internal temperature: Reheated chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer ensures that you’re reheating the chicken thoroughly and safely.
- Not letting the chicken rest after reheating: After removing from the oven or skillet, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes on a wire rack. This step helps excess moisture escape, keeping your crust crispy.
Tips for Best Results
- Use an oven or air fryer for best crispy results. Reheat at moderate temperature and check frequently to prevent burning.
- If using an oven, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate around the chicken evenly.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray before reheating.
- If your chicken was stored in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before reheating. This helps it heat more evenly.
- Always reheat leftovers sooner rather than later to ensure freshness and safety.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following practical tips, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful fried chicken even after it’s been refrigerated. Remember, patience and the right method make all the difference for reheating leftovers beautifully.
Maximizing Flavor and Texture
Reheating fried chicken can be tricky if you want to keep it tasting delicious and maintaining its crispy texture. Luckily, there are simple strategies you can use to make your leftovers just as good as when they were freshly cooked. Whether you are using an oven, skillet, or microwave, these tips will help boost the flavor and preserve that appealing crunch.
First, think about how you reheat the chicken. The goal is to heat it thoroughly without making it soggy or dry. The oven or skillet methods are often best for keeping the crispy exterior intact, while microwaving is faster but can sometimes result in sogginess. Choose the method that suits your time and preference while keeping these tips in mind.
Using the Oven
Reheating fried chicken in the oven is a popular choice because it helps restore crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This setup allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, which keeps the skin crispy on all sides.
Lightly brush the chicken with a small amount of oil or cooking spray before baking. This can help revive some of that fresh fried flavor and add a little shine. Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking, which can dry the meat out.
Using a Skillet
The skillet method is great if you want to reheat in less time and maintain a crispy crust. Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cover the skillet with a lid to help heat the inside without drying out the outside.
Turn the chicken every few minutes to ensure even heating. This method usually takes around 8–10 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Be careful not to overheat, which can make the meat tough and the coating greasy.
Tips for Best Results
- Let the chicken come closer to room temperature before reheating to ensure even heating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or oven; give each piece space so it can crisp up evenly.
- If your chicken was already seasoned or sauced, consider reheating it uncovered to prevent sogginess.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little more seasoned flour or bread crumbs before reheating.
Microwave Reheating
The microwave is the quickest way to reheat fried chicken but can lead to soggy skin. To minimize this, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on medium power in short intervals, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking in between.
To improve texture, after microwaving, quickly crisp the chicken in a hot skillet or oven for a few minutes. This combo approach helps reheat the chicken evenly while restoring some of that crispy quality.
Additional Tips for Flavor Boost
- Adding a pinch of salt or spices after reheating can bring back some lost flavor.
- Serve with fresh dips or sauces to add moisture and flavor contrast.
- If the chicken feels dry, a quick brush of broth or hot sauce can help revive moisture.
By following these practical tips, your reheated fried chicken will come out flavorful, juicy, and crispy. A little patience and the right technique can turn your leftovers into a delicious treat once again.