Chicken is a versatile meat that can be used in many different dishes. However, leftovers often need to be reheated before they can be enjoyed again. Reheating chicken properly is important to keep it moist and flavorful. Follow these tips to learn how to reheat chicken breasts, thighs, wings, and more.
How to Reheat Chicken in the Oven
The oven is one of the best ways to evenly reheat chicken. Follow these steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place chicken pieces in a baking dish or sheet pan. Make sure they are not overlapping.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil. The steam created will keep the chicken moist.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through. The time will vary based on the amount and thickness of chicken.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Avoid overcooking or the chicken will dry out.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will continue rising slightly.
This technique works well for reheating boneless chicken breasts, thighs, wings, and more. Just adjust bake times as needed.
How to Reheat Chicken in the Microwave
The microwave provides a quick way to reheat chicken. Follow these guidelines:
- Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a paper towel or vented plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High in 1-minute intervals until heated through, flipping halfway. Check temperature.
- Allow thicker pieces like breasts and thighs to stand for 1-2 minutes to allow heat to evenly distribute.
- Take care not to overcook or chicken will be rubbery.
- Add a tablespoon of water or broth to help prevent drying out.
- Stir reheated chicken shreds or pieces into soups, fried rice or pasta dishes.
How to Reheat Grilled Chicken
For grilled chicken pieces like breasts or kabobs:
- Preheat oven or toaster oven to 325°F.
- Place on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, use your grill on medium heat. Quickly warm pieces for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Take care not to overcook or the chicken will dry out.
Tips for Keeping Chicken Moist
- Use foil or a lid to trap steam and moisture.
- Cook at lower temperatures for a longer time, avoiding high heat.
- Add a small amount of broth or sauce to reheated chicken to boost moisture.
- Let chicken rest after reheating so juices can redistribute.
Additional Questions About Reheating Chicken
How do you reheat baked chicken?
Baked chicken like chicken parmesan can be reheated effectively in the oven. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy again. The foil will trap moisture. You can also reheat in the microwave using lower power for 3-5 minutes to maintain texture.
Can you reheat chicken tenders?
Chicken tenders and nuggets reheat well in the oven or microwave. For the oven, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. In the microwave, heat on 50% power in 1-minute intervals, flipping halfway through. Avoid reheating breaded chicken at full power or it will become soggy.
What is the best way to reheat fried chicken?
Fried chicken is best reheated in the oven to recrisp the crust. Preheat oven to 350°F and place fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until hot and crispy. The wire rack allows air circulation underneath. Microwaving will make fried chicken soggy.
How can you tell if reheated chicken is safe to eat?
Chicken that has been reheated properly to an internal temperature of 165°F is safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to take the temperature in multiple spots to ensure don’t have any cold spots where bacteria could survive. The chicken should be steaming hot throughout. If reheated chicken smells bad or has an off color, it may be spoiled and unsafe to eat.
Here are some recommended microwaves and ovens that work well for reheating chicken:
Microwaves:
- Panasonic NN-SN966S – This microwave has an inverter technology that provides consistent heating at lower power levels, great for gently reheating chicken without drying it out.
- Toshiba EM131A5C-BS – The sensor cooking feature on this 1.2 cubic feet microwave can automatically adjust time and power based on the amount of steam coming from the food. Helpful for chicken.
- GE JES1656SRSS – With a crusty plate and reheat button, this microwave is designed to crisp up chicken and retain moisture. The interior ceramic enamel surface allows for easy cleaning.
Ovens:
- LG LDE4415ST – The dual convection fan and lower temperature convection bake settings circulate air evenly around chicken for thorough reheating.
- Bosch HGI8056UC – The integrated temperature probe in this oven can accurately read the internal temp of chicken pieces, so you don’t overcook them.
- Frigidaire Gallery FGET2765PF – The air fry setting on this oven is ideal for reheating fried chicken without drying it out by using a high-powered convection fan.
- GE JTS5000SNSS – This oven has a “reheat” option that uses low, continuous heat perfect for gently and evenly reheating leftover chicken without drying it out.
Look for microwaves with adjustable power levels and ovens with convection or air fry modes to get the best reheated chicken results.
Following these guidelines will help you perfectly reheat chicken so it stays tender and delicious.
