Check out these 3 simple methods to reheat chicken so that it stays juicy and flavorful before reaching for the microwave if you have leftover chicken for a delicious lunch or a quick dinner.
Everyone has a go-to chicken recipe that makes enough for one or two additional meals, making it simple to “heat and eat.” But if you don’t watch it, simply putting a piece of cold chicken in the microwave can lead to overcooked meat that’s difficult to chew and requires a gallon of water to wash down.
You’ll find every hint and step-by-step guide you need to reheat chicken to the tender perfection you remember it to be below.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chicken?
Here’s how to reheat leftover chicken without it becoming chewy or flavorless.
The USDA recommends using a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating. Of course, the most crucial step is to reheat it safely.
Does the Type of Chicken Matter?
What kind of chicken you’re cooking determines the best way to reheat it. Use an air fryer to reheat restaurant chicken wings for a crispy bite. On the stovetop, smaller chicken pieces work well, such as sliced chicken breast and rotisserie chicken without the bone. While fried chicken is ideal for the toaster oven, leftover breaded chicken (such as chicken parmesan) or bone-in chicken reheats well in the oven.
Of course, the microwave is the best option if you’re in a hurry, especially if you have a sauce to keep your chicken moist!
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Large aluminum foil is used to line a baking sheet. The foil needs to be large enough to extend past the baking sheet’s sides.
On the stove This method requires practice and is less effective than the ones above because it may be difficult with chicken you want to keep juicy and tender.
High heat should be used in the oven and the pan to prevent the chicken from drying out and making it tough and difficult to cut. The same thing will happen if you microwave it for too long. ADVERTISEMENT.
The ideal method is to place it in the oven while it is wrapped in foil (with a small opening for steam). To moisten it, you can even add a small amount of water or broth, but it’s not strictly necessary. depending on the size of the chicken, preheat the oven to at least 350 degrees and cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees.
There are obviously many different types of chicken, but we’re only talking about a chicken breast or tenderloin that needs to be warmed up in the oven or toaster oven.
It is advised to allow your chicken to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven for even greater success.
Best Way to Reheat Cooked Chicken
I strongly recommend baking or cooking chicken in advance for quick meals later in the week. There are a few methods for properly reheating the chicken without drying out the meat, including using a stovetop, an oven, or a microwave. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages, which I’ve outlined for you below:
| Oven Pros | Oven Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for bone-in, skin-on cuts, and breaded cuts | Takes longer |
| Keeps chicken skin crispy | |
| Evenly reheats the meat |
| Microwave Pros | Microwave Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for non-breaded cuts of chicken | Easy to dry out the chicken |
| Fast | Unevenly reheats the meat |
| Stovetop Pros | Stovetop Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for boneless, skinless chicken cuts | Loss of seasonings |
| Retains the most moisture | Not suitable for breaded or basted chicken |
| Evenly reheats the meat |
FAQ
Can you reheat chicken in a toaster oven?
The steps listed below, according to Sidoti, will help you reheat your fried chicken in a toaster oven. Aluminum foil should be used to line the baking sheet from your toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and wait a few minutes for it to pre-heat. Place a handful of fried chicken on a plate.
What is the best way to reheat chicken breast?
In a medium or large skillet, add a little water or chicken broth, then add the chicken breasts and heat over medium-high heat. About 10 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast reads 165°F, cover with a lid and heat until thoroughly warmed through.
How do you reheat chicken breast without drying it out?
Just enough water should be added to a skillet to cover the bottom. When the water begins to simmer, place the pan over medium heat and add the chicken. Reduce the heat, stir the chicken gently, and cook until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F. When the chicken is thoroughly heated, eat it quickly.
How do you reheat breaded chicken breast in a toaster oven?
- Line your toaster with baking paper lined with aluminum foil.
- For a few minutes, heat the oven toaster to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- For one to two minutes, bake the fried chicken in the toaster oven.
