6 Methods To Use When Reheating Fried Chicken

Nothing beats the crispy, juicy goodness of fresh fried chicken, but what about the leftovers? Cold fried chicken can be tasty, but sometimes you want that warm crunch back.

Reheating, on the other hand, can be tricky because nobody wants soggy skin or dried-out meat. So here are six reliable methods to bring your leftover fried chicken back to life.

1. Oven Method: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Oven Method: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
© Serious Eats

The oven stands as the gold standard for bringing leftover fried chicken back to life. Preheat to 350°F and place your chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This elevation allows hot air to circulate around the entire piece, preventing the dreaded soggy bottom.

Cook for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remember to let your chicken rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before reheating – tossing cold chicken into a hot oven can lead to uneven warming.

2. Air Fryer Revival: Quick Crispy Perfection

Air Fryer Revival: Quick Crispy Perfection
© Easy Healthy Recipes

Air fryers have revolutionized the leftover game, especially for fried foods. Set your air fryer to 375°F and arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, giving them breathing room. A light spritz of cooking oil helps restore that fresh-fried texture.

Three to four minutes is usually perfect – any longer risks drying out your precious poultry. The rapid air circulation creates that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender inside. For larger pieces, you might need an extra minute.

3. Stovetop Skillet Method: Old-School Approach

Stovetop Skillet Method: Old-School Approach
© Country Living Magazine

My grandmother swore by this method, claiming it brought chicken back to life better than any newfangled gadget. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil to a heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Place chicken pieces skin-side down first, then cover with a lid for about three minutes.

This creates a mini-oven environment that heats the meat through. Remove the lid for the final minute to re-crisp the exterior. The direct contact with the hot pan gives you a wonderfully crunchy bottom while maintaining moisture inside.

4. Toaster Oven Technique: Energy-Efficient Option

Toaster Oven Technique: Energy-Efficient Option
© Country Living Magazine

Perfect for small batches or single servings, the toaster oven offers precision without heating up your entire kitchen. Preheat to 350°F and place chicken directly on the rack or a small tray. A sheet of foil on the bottom catches any drips.

Eight to ten minutes usually does the trick, but flip halfway through for even heating. The compact space means faster preheating and cooking times compared to a standard oven.

I’ve found this method particularly useful for lunch at work when the break room has limited options.

5. Microwave-to-Oven Combo: The Emergency Solution

Microwave-to-Oven Combo: The Emergency Solution
© Tasting Table

Sometimes hunger won’t wait for preheating. Start by microwaving chicken pieces at 50% power for 30 seconds per piece to warm the center without rubbery skin. Immediately transfer to a preheated 400°F oven or toaster oven for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

The microwave handles the inside while the oven tackles the outside. This hybrid approach saves time while avoiding the dreaded all-microwave result.

Just don’t leave the chicken sitting between appliances for long, or you’ll lose the benefit of the quick transfer.

6. Re-Frying Method: Bold But Effective

Re-Frying Method: Bold But Effective
© Bon Appetit

The most dramatic comeback requires returning to where it all began – the fryer. Heat oil to 350°F in a deep pot or fryer. You need enough to submerge the chicken halfway.

Lower pieces gently into hot oil for just 60-90 seconds – we’re not cooking, just reheating and re-crisping. Any longer risks oil-logged chicken and overcooked meat.

Drain well on paper towels. While this method uses more resources, nothing quite matches the texture revival.

The hot oil instantly reactivates the outer coating for that fresh-from-the-fryer experience.