How to Reheat Fried Chicken: A Comprehensive Guide to Retaining Moisture and Crispiness

I. Introduction

Fried chicken is a delectable meal that can be enjoyed in various forms – plain, in a salad, or as a sandwich. However, leftover fried chicken can be unappetizing if it’s not reheated correctly. In this article, we’ll discuss the best methods and tips for reheating fried chicken so that it can retain its moisture and crunch.

Here are some of the challenges people face when reheating fried chicken:

• Lack of equipment or kitchen appliances
• Fried chicken becomes dry and unappetizing after reheating
• Undercooked or overcooked fried chicken
• Losing the crispiness of the fried chicken
• Not getting the desired flavor and texture of the fried chicken after reheating

II. The Basics: Reheating Fried Chicken 101

Before diving into the different methods of reheating fried chicken, let’s discuss the basics. The ideal temperature for reheating fried chicken is 375°F (190°C) in an oven. At this temperature, the chicken will heat up evenly and retain its moisture.

Before reheating the fried chicken, it is essential to bring it to room temperature. Avoid putting cold chicken directly into the oven or pan as it will change the cooking time. Allow the chicken to rest on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before reheating.

Additionally, covering the fried chicken with foil or a lid while reheating will prevent it from drying out and make sure it heats up evenly. If you’re using a microwave, add a damp paper towel to the plate to keep the chicken moist during reheating.

III. 5 Quick and Easy Ways to Reheat Fried Chicken

If you’re in a hurry, here are the fastest ways to reheat fried chicken:

1. Oven: This method takes the longest time, but it’s the most effective way to reheat fried chicken without losing its texture. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), arrange the chicken on a baking sheet, and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to achieve the desired crispiness.
2. Frying: Heat some oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until crispy. This method is not recommended for those who are conscious about their oil intake.
3. Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the chicken on the basket, and spray with oil. Air fry for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, and turn it over halfway through the cooking time.
4. Grilling: Grill the chicken on medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it’s heated through. This method will add a smoky flavor to the chicken, but it may dry out if left on the grill for too long.
5. Microwave: This method is the quickest way to reheat fried chicken, but it’s not recommended as microwaves tend to dry out the chicken. Put the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds per piece.

IV. The Ultimate Guide to Making Leftover Fried Chicken Taste Like It Was Just Cooked

If you want to make your reheated fried chicken taste fresh and crispy, here are some tips:

• Seasonings: Add some seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the fried chicken before reheating to add some flavor and a kick of spice.
• Bread Crumb Coating: Crush some panko crumbs, dip the chicken in egg and then coat it with the panko crumbs, bake in the oven or air fryer to make the chicken extra crispy.
• Buttermilk Bath: Soak the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before reheating to enhance the flavor and texture of the chicken.
• Zap with Moisture: Zap the reheated chicken with a few squirts of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and succulent.
• Dry it out: Pat the chicken dry before frying in the oil to get that extra crunch.

V. How to Reheat Fried Chicken Without Drying It Out

The most common problem with reheating fried chicken is that the chicken becomes dry after reheating. Here are some methods to avoid drying out your fried chicken:

• Steam: Add a bit of moisture to the chicken by microwaving it with a damp paper towel or putting it in the oven with a dish filled with water.
• Sauce: Serve the fried chicken with a sauce such as gravy or ranch to keep it moist.
• Cover: Cover the chicken with foil or a lid during reheating to stop the moisture from escaping.
• Spraying with Oil: Before reheating the chicken, spray it with oil to help retain its moisture.
• Use a Dutch Oven: If you have a Dutch oven, place the chicken on a wire rack and put it inside the Dutch oven. The chicken will cook in its juices and remain moist.

VI. 7 Methods for Reheating Fried Chicken That Will Keep It Crispy

Preserving the crispiness of fried chicken can be challenging, but here are some methods to help you retain the crunch:

• Broiling: Preheat the broiler on high, place the chicken on a wire rack, and broil for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Air Frying: Heat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the chicken on the basket, and air fry for 5-10 minutes or until crispy.
• Toaster Oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C), arrange the chicken on the rack, and toast for 10-15 minutes or until crispy.
• Deep Frying: Heat some oil in a pot, fry the chicken until crispy, and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
• Pan Frying: Heat some oil in a skillet, put the chicken in, and fry until crispy. Turn over halfway through the frying time.
• Baking Powder: Lightly coat the chicken with baking powder before reheating in the oven or air fryer. This will create a crunchy texture on the chicken.
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), arrange the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy.

VII. From Oven to Microwave: How to Reheat Fried Chicken in Any Situation

Here are some methods for reheating fried chicken that cater to different situations:

• If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave method. It’s quick and easy, but keep in mind that the chicken may not be as flavorful as using other methods.
• If you’re at the office, use the toaster oven method. It’s smaller than a regular oven and easy to clean.
• If you’re at home, use the oven or air fryer method. These methods are the most effective for retaining the flavor and crispiness of the chicken.
• If you don’t have an oven, use the frying or broiling method. These methods will add extra flavors to the chicken, but watch it carefully to avoid burning it.

VIII. Reheating Fried Chicken: Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Meal

Here are some general tips that apply to all reheating methods:

• Do not overcrowd the pan or basket when reheating the chicken. This will lead to uneven heating and will result in lousy tasting chicken.
• Do not refrigerate leftover fried chicken with the skin on, as it will lose its crispy texture when reheated.
• Season the chicken according to your taste preference before reheating to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Discard the leftover fried chicken after two days. Consuming leftover fried chicken beyond two days may lead to food poisoning.
• Store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to retain its flavor.

By following these tips, you can turn reheated fried chicken into a delicious meal without compromising its texture and taste.

IX. Mastering the Art of Reheating Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a summary of all the methods discussed in the article:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring the chicken to room temperature.
3. Cover the chicken with foil or a lid.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes for crispiness.
5. For frying, heat some oil in a skillet and put the chicken in until heated through.
6. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry for 5-10 minutes.
7. For grilling, grill the chicken on medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side.
8. For microwaving, add a damp paper towel to the plate with the chicken, and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds per piece.

X. Conclusion

Reheating fried chicken can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these different methods, tips, and tricks, you can enjoy delicious, juicy, and crispy fried chicken, even if it’s been sitting in the fridge for a couple of days.

Remember to always heat the chicken to the right temperature, use the right method depending on your preference and cooking equipment, and maintain the right texture and flavor by following our tips and tricks.

So next time you have some leftover fried chicken, don’t throw it away – try out these methods and enjoy a delectable meal.