To reheat fried chicken and maintain its crispiness, the best method involves using your oven.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
-
Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the fried chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This helps it reheat more evenly.
-
Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Give it Air: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, promoting crisping. Place the chicken pieces on the wire rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
-
Bake: Bake the fried chicken for 12-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Why this works: The high heat helps to re-crisp the skin without drying out the chicken too much. The wire rack allows for even heating and air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture.
Alternative Methods (Less Ideal):
-
Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Reheat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This is a good option if you have an air fryer and want a quick result, but it may not be as crispy as the oven method.
-
Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispiness): While convenient, microwaving fried chicken will make it soggy. If you must use a microwave, wrap the chicken in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave in short intervals (30 seconds) until heated through. This is generally not recommended if you are aiming for crispiness.
Important Considerations:
- Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding in the oven or air fryer will steam the chicken instead of crisping it.
- Don't Overheat: Overheating will dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on the internal temperature.
- Enjoy Immediately: For the best taste and texture, consume the reheated fried chicken immediately.
