How to Reheat Fried Chicken: All the Tricks to Keep it Crispy and (Even More) Delicious

Fried chicken is a universally beloved dish, known for its golden, crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. There's nothing quite like biting into a piece of freshly fried chicken when it's still hot and crunchy. However, sometimes you end up with leftovers and want to enjoy them for lunch or dinner the following day, or perhaps even pack them for a picnic or a day trip out of town. In such cases, how can you restore your fried chicken to its former glory? Let's explore the best methods to reheat fried chicken and make it crispy again.

Is It Safe to Reheat Leftover Fried Chicken?

Before diving into the methods, let's answer this question, since it can plague even the best of us. According to the USDA, reheating fried chicken is safe as long as it has been stored properly. Leftover chicken should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and should be consumed within three to four days. When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to kill any potential bacteria. With these safety measures in mind, you can enjoy your leftover fried chicken without any worries.

How to Reheat Fried Chicken in The Oven

The oven is the best way to reheat fried chicken, as it helps retain the chicken's crispy texture while thoroughly heating it. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for reheating without drying out the meat. Take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This step ensures even reheating. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet, which allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, maintaining its crispiness. Arrange the chicken pieces on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra crispiness, you can switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

How to Reheat Fried Chicken in The Air Fryer

If you have an air fryer, it’s an excellent alternative for reheating fried chicken. The air fryer’s convection heating can restore the chicken's crispy texture effectively. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), as preheating is crucial for even cooking. Let the chicken come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before reheating. Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even heating. Heat the chicken for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

How to Reheat Fried Chicken on The Stovetop

If you don’t have access to an oven or air fryer, you can still reheat fried chicken on the stovetop. This method is straightforward and yields good results if done correctly. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil, which helps regain some of the chicken’s original crispiness. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken pieces in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping occasionally to prevent burning. Adjust the heat if necessary. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

The One Method You Have to Steer Clear Of

While the microwave is a convenient option for reheating food, it is not recommended for fried chicken. Microwaving can make the chicken soggy and chewy instead of crispy. The rapid heating process in the microwave causes the moisture inside the chicken to steam, resulting in a loss of texture. Additionally, microwaving can heat unevenly, leaving some parts of the chicken cold while others are overcooked. For the best results, stick to the oven, air fryer, or stovetop methods to reheat your fried chicken.