How To Reheat Fried Chicken In Oven [FULL GUIDE]

Fried chicken, with its golden, crispy crust and tender, juicy interior, is one of the most beloved comfort foods worldwide. However, enjoying it fresh out of the fryer or oven is often a fleeting moment. Leftovers are common, and the challenge lies in reheating fried chicken without compromising its texture or flavor. Microwaving may seem convenient, but it often results in a soggy, rubbery exterior, losing the signature crunch that defines great fried chicken. Reheating in the oven, on the other hand, offers a method that can restore crispiness while keeping the meat moist, making it almost as enjoyable as when first cooked. Understanding the right temperature, timing, and techniques is crucial to achieving reheated fried chicken perfection.

Best Temperature To Reheat Fried Chicken In Oven

The ideal oven temperature for reheating fried chicken is typically 350°F (175°C). This temperature strikes a delicate balance: it’s hot enough to crisp the exterior without overcooking or drying out the meat.

• Why 350°F? At this moderate temperature, the heat penetrates the chicken evenly, gently warming the interior while allowing the coating to regain its crunch. Higher temperatures, such as 400°F or above, risk burning the crust before the inside is adequately heated. Conversely, lower temperatures around 300°F may reheat the meat evenly but fail to restore the crispiness.
• For extra crispiness: Some chefs recommend preheating to 375°F but lowering the chicken’s placement in the oven to prevent the top from browning too fast. The key is controlled heat that restores texture without sacrificing juiciness.

Best Cooking Time To Reheat Fried Chicken In Oven

Timing is as crucial as temperature. For standard pieces of fried chicken (like drumsticks or thighs), reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F should take approximately 15-20 minutes.

• Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pieces take slightly longer because the heat must penetrate deeper to warm the meat near the bone. Boneless pieces may only require 10-15 minutes.
• Checking doneness: Internal temperature is a reliable guide. Fried chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety without overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Avoid over-reheating: Extending cooking time unnecessarily can dry out the chicken and toughen the crust.

How To Reheat Fried Chicken In Oven

Reheating fried chicken in the oven is straightforward but requires careful steps to maintain quality:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Allow it to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes to ensure even heating. Pat the surface dry if it feels moist.
3. Use a wire rack: Place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, preventing soggy bottoms and promoting even crispiness.
4. Reheat: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway if needed. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
5. Rest before serving: Let the chicken sit for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

When Not To Reheat Fried Chicken In The Oven

Not every situation is ideal for oven reheating. Avoid using the oven when:

• The chicken is very old: Fried chicken stored beyond 3-4 days in the refrigerator may not safely reheat without compromising quality.
• Moisture issues exist: If the coating has become heavily saturated or soggy, the oven alone may not restore crispiness. In such cases, combining oven and broiler methods or using a toaster oven can help.
• Time constraints: Oven reheating requires 15-20 minutes; if you’re in a rush, the microwave may be faster, though texture will be compromised.

Reheating Fried Chicken More Than Once

Reheating fried chicken multiple times is strongly discouraged. Each cycle of heating and cooling:

• Reduces moisture, leading to dry meat.
• Weakens the crust, making it less crisp.
• Increases bacterial risk if not handled properly.

If you must reheat, portion the chicken and only reheat what you will eat immediately to maintain quality and safety.

What If I Use A Different Oven Temperature?

Altering the oven temperature can significantly affect the outcome:

• Higher than 350°F (e.g., 400°F-425°F): The crust may brown quickly, sometimes burning, while the interior remains underheated. You may need to lower the rack or cover the chicken loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Lower than 350°F (e.g., 300°F): The chicken heats evenly but the crust may remain limp and fail to regain its crispiness. Longer baking time is necessary, but this can dry the meat.

What If I Use A Different Oven Cook Time?

Adjusting cook time without considering temperature can either overcook or undercook the chicken:

• Shorter time: The interior may be cold or lukewarm, risking uneven heating.
• Longer time: Even at 350°F, excessive cooking can dry out meat and toughen the crust. Monitoring internal temperature is the safest approach.

Best Ways To Reheat Fried Chicken

While the oven is generally the best method, alternatives exist for specific goals:

1. Conventional Oven: Best for overall texture and safety.
2. Toaster Oven: Works well for smaller portions, providing crispiness with minimal effort.
3. Air Fryer: Excellent for restoring crunch quickly; use at 350°F-375°F for 5-10 minutes.
4. Skillet Reheating: Can revive crispiness with a light layer of oil, but careful attention is needed to prevent burning.

Tips For Optimal Reheating Results

• Use a wire rack: Prevents soggy bottoms.
• Don’t overcrowd the oven: Adequate airflow ensures even crisping.
• Check internal temperature: Always aim for 165°F for safety.
• Optional finishing step: A quick 1-2 minute broil at the end can add extra crunch if needed.
• Avoid foil directly on chicken: Traps steam and softens the coating.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Reheat Fried Chicken In The Oven?

The best way to reheat fried chicken in the oven is to preheat it to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the chicken stays crispy while being evenly reheated.

How Do I Keep The Fried Chicken Crispy When Reheating It?

To keep the fried chicken crispy, reheating on a wire rack is essential. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, preventing the coating from becoming soggy. Additionally, you can lightly brush the chicken with oil before reheating.

Should I Cover The Chicken With Foil When Reheating It In The Oven?

It is generally not recommended to cover fried chicken with foil while reheating as it can trap steam and make the coating soggy. Instead, leave the chicken uncovered to maintain its crispiness.

How Long Does It Take To Reheat Fried Chicken In The Oven?

Reheating fried chicken in the oven typically takes 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on the size of the chicken pieces. It’s important to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s thoroughly heated.

Can I Reheat Frozen Fried Chicken In The Oven?

Yes, you can reheat frozen fried chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What Temperature Should The Oven Be Set To When Reheating Fried Chicken?

The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C) when reheating fried chicken. This temperature allows the chicken to reheat evenly while maintaining its crisp exterior.

Is There A Way To Reheat Fried Chicken Without Drying It Out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, cover it loosely with foil for the first 5 minutes of reheating, then remove it for the remaining time. Also, using a wire rack ensures even heating, and adding a light spritz of water or broth before reheating can help retain moisture.

Can I Reheat Fried Chicken In A Toaster Oven?

Yes, a toaster oven can be used to reheat fried chicken. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a rack or baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How Can I Reheat Fried Chicken In The Oven Without A Wire Rack?

If you don’t have a wire rack, you can place the fried chicken directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For extra crispiness, you can flip the chicken halfway through the reheating process.

What Should I Do If My Fried Chicken Is Too Greasy After Reheating?

If your fried chicken is greasy after reheating, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Additionally, using a wire rack in the oven allows the grease to drip off, helping to keep the chicken crisp.