How To Reheat Fried Chicken So It’s Crispy (2024)

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If you have leftover fried chicken from last night’s dinner, you want it to be just as crispy and delicious as it was when it was freshly cooked. Luckily, there is a way to reheat leftover fried chicken so it’s still nice and crispy.

In this post, we’re sharing four tried and true methods to reheat leftover fried chicken.

What is the Best Way to Reheat Fried Chicken?

The best way to reheat fried chicken is to use an oven. It won’t take long, and the skin will be deliciously crisp. Fried chicken can also be reheated on the stove top and in an air fryer. If you’re short on time, a microwave can be used but the texture of the skin won’t be crispy.

How Long to Reheat Fried Chicken in the Oven

In an oven preheated to 400°F, leftover fried chicken will take between 10 to 20 minutes to reheat depending on the size of the pieces.

How to Reheat Fried Chicken

Method 1: How to Reheat Fried Chicken in the Oven (The Best)

Start by removing the chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 20 minutes until warmed through. Smaller pieces like wings or drumsticks won’t take as long as larger thighs or breasts, so be sure to check the chicken after 10 minutes. When the chicken is heated through, remove it to a rack to slightly cool.

Method 2: In an Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to 375°F and place the chicken in the basket in a single layer. Heat the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes, turning it at the halfway point. When warmed through, place the chicken on a rack to slightly cool.

Method 3: In a Skillet

Fill a skillet with a neutral oil such as canola or corn oil and heat over medium-high. When the oil reaches 300°F, carefully add the leftover chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan as that will cause the temperature of the oil to drop and the chicken will get oily. When the chicken is crispy, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before eating.

Method 4: In the Microwave

If you’re short on time and must use a microwave to reheat fried chicken, place the chicken on paper towels in a microwave-safe bowl or plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, turning after every 30 seconds until the chicken is warmed through. The paper towels will help to keep the chicken from becoming too soggy.

Tips and Tricks for Keeping Fried Chicken Crispy

• Bring the chicken to room temperature before reheating: Take the chicken out of the fridge about 20 to 30 minutes before reheating. This will reduce the amount of time needed to reheat the chicken and will help to prevent it from drying out.
• Go high and fast: Using a high temperature for a short amount of time produces the best results. Chicken reheated in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes will be moist on the inside and crispy on the outside.

Can you Reheat Cooked Frozen Fried Chicken?

Yes. If you have leftover chicken that was stored in the freezer it can be reheated from frozen. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the frozen fried chicken on a baking pan in a single layer. Depending on the size of the pieces, it will take 30 to 40 minutes to reheat.

How Long Does Leftover Fried Chicken Last in the Fridge?

According to the USDA, properly stored cooked chicken can remain in the fridge for 3-4 days in the fridge, and in the freezer for two to three months.

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