Reheating fully cooked fried chicken properly ensures it regains its crispy texture and is safely heated through. Based on available information, you can achieve this using either an oven or an air fryer.
There are two effective methods to reheat fully cooked fried chicken to make it crispy again: using a conventional oven or an air fryer.
Reheating in the Oven
Using an oven is a reliable way to heat larger batches of chicken while aiming for a crispy finish.
Steps for Oven Reheating:
- Initial Heating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place Chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, helping to crisp the bottom.
- First Cook Time: Heat the chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. This step focuses on heating the chicken through.
- Crisping Step: After 15 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Final Cook Time: Continue baking for a few more minutes at the higher temperature. This temperature bump helps to crisp the skin. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Practical Insight: The exact time needed at 400°F will depend on the size of the chicken pieces and your oven. Check frequently until the skin reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Reheating in an Air Fryer
An air fryer is excellent for quickly reheating smaller quantities and achieving extra crispiness.
Steps for Air Fryer Reheating:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer unit to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Chicken: For best results, lightly spray each side of the fully cooked chicken pieces with cooking spray. This aids in achieving a crispy exterior.
- Cook and Flip: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Cook, flipping the pieces every three minutes.
- Check Temperature: Continue cooking, flipping as directed, until each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a food thermometer to verify the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken.
Practical Insight: Flipping helps ensure even heating and browning on all sides. Cooking time will vary depending on the air fryer model and chicken size.
Comparison of Reheating Methods
Here's a quick comparison of the two methods:
| Feature | Oven Reheating | Air Fryer Reheating |
|---|---|---|
| Batch Size | Good for larger quantities | Best for smaller quantities |
| Initial Temp | 350°F | 350°F |
| Crisping Temp | 400°F (after initial heating) | Achieved at 350°F with spray/flipping |
| Time | ~15 mins at 350°, then more at 400° | Cook, flipping every 3 mins, until 165°F |
| Technique | Two-stage temperature | Spraying, frequent flipping, internal temp check |
| Result Focus | Heats through, then crisps skin | Quick heating, very crispy exterior |
Choosing the right method depends on how much chicken you need to reheat and your preference for convenience and crispiness. Both methods, when followed correctly, will revive your fully cooked fried chicken.
