How to Reheat Fried Chicken

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as indulging in leftover fried chicken. But the challenge? Keeping that crispy crust and juicy meat intact. Thankfully, with a few handy tips, you can enjoy your chicken the way it was meant to be.

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How To Reheat Fried Chicken

When reheated improperly, fried chicken can become soggy, rubbery, or overly dry. Proper reheating techniques ensure you maintain the chicken’s original flavor and texture.

Different methods can help achieve crispy results, but not all are created equal. The USDA guidelines recommend reheating chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Here are the best methods to consider.

Oven

This method ensures air circulates around the chicken, keeping the crust crispy.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place chicken pieces on a baking rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally.

Air Fryer

Air fryers mimic deep frying, giving you a crunch similar to the original.

1. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Reheat in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for about 10 minutes or until crispy.

For a crispy accompaniment to your fried chicken, learn how to perfectly reheat your leftover French fries with our easy guide.

Microwave

While quick, microwaves can make your chicken’s crust soggy. If you must use a microwave, use it only to warm the chicken, not to make it crispy.

1. Lay a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate and place the chicken on it.
2. Set the microwave to medium power.
3. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking between each.
4. Ensure the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C) before eating.

Pan Frying

Re-frying can make the chicken overly greasy and may overcook the meat.

1. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pat chicken dry with a paper towel.
3. Fry pieces without overcrowding, 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Tips For Optimal Results

Follow these guidelines for the best reheating results:

• Don’t Rush: Faster isn’t always better. Gentle reheating helps preserve the chicken’s texture.
• Thaw First: If your chicken is frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator first. This ensures even reheating.
• Avoid Steaming: Keep the chicken uncovered when reheating to prevent steam from making the crust soggy.

Also, check out my post on how to reheat chicken tenders or rotissoire chicken as they are similar but not exactly the same techniques.

Method	Pros	Cons
Oven	Keeps crust crispy, Even heating	Takes longer
Air Fryer	Quick, Mimics original frying	May not be available for everyone
Microwave	Fastest method	Soggy crust, Uneven heating
Pan Frying	Crispy	Greasy, Risk of overcooking

Conclusion

Reheating fried chicken doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right method, you can enjoy your leftovers just as much as when they were freshly cooked. Remember, the key is in the approach!