If you love fried chicken but don’t want to eat it cold or soggy, then you need to learn how to reheat it properly. Fortunately, an air fryer can be a great solution for reheating fried chicken. In this article, we will discuss how to reheat fried chicken in an air fryer, step by step.

Why use an air fryer to reheat fried chicken?
An air fryer is a great option for reheating fried chicken because it uses hot air to circulate around the food. This creates a crispy exterior while retaining the moisture inside, making it perfect for reheating fried chicken without making it soggy. Additionally, air fryers are quick and easy to use, so you can have your chicken ready in just a few minutes.
Preparing your fried chicken for reheating
Before reheating your fried chicken in the air fryer, you should prepare it by removing any excess breading or batter that may have fallen off during cooking. This will prevent the chicken from becoming too greasy or soggy. You can do this by gently shaking the chicken or wiping it with a paper towel. You should also let the chicken come to room temperature before reheating it in the air fryer.
Step-by-step guide on reheating fried chicken in an air fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Place the fried chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each piece.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once the chicken has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How long to reheat fried chicken in an air fryer
The amount of time it takes to reheat fried chicken in an air fryer will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general rule, you should reheat the chicken for 6-8 minutes, flipping it over halfway through the cooking time. However, you should always check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached 165°F.
Tips for achieving crispy fried chicken in the air fryer
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and becoming crispy.
- Use a light coating of oil or cooking spray on the chicken to help it crisp up.
- Preheat the air fryer before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after reheating to allow the juices to redistribute.
Common mistakes to avoid when reheating fried chicken in an air fryer
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket
- Using too much oil or cooking spray
- Reheating the chicken for too long, which can cause it to become dry
- Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer
Other methods for reheating fried chicken
If you don’t have an air fryer, there are other methods you can use to reheat fried chicken. Here are a few options:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
- Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that this method may make the chicken soggy.
- Toaster oven: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Conclusion
Reheating fried chicken can be a challenge, but with the right method, you can enjoy it just as much as you did when it was fresh. Using an air fryer is a great way to reheat fried chicken without making it soggy, and with a little bit of practice, you can achieve perfectly crispy chicken every time. Just remember to prepare your chicken properly, avoid common mistakes, and check the internal temperature to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
FAQ
- Can you reheat fried chicken more than once?
It’s generally safe to reheat fried chicken once, but reheating it multiple times can increase the risk of foodborne illness. It’s best to reheat your chicken only once and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
- How do I know when my fried chicken is reheated enough?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F before it’s safe to eat. You can check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
- Can I use an air fryer to reheat other types of fried foods?
Yes, an air fryer can be used to reheat other types of fried foods, such as French fries or onion rings. Just be sure to follow the same steps for preparing and reheating your food.
- How do I prevent my fried chicken from becoming too greasy when reheating it?
Be sure to remove any excess breading or batter from the chicken before reheating it, and avoid using too much oil or cooking spray.
- Can I freeze fried chicken and reheat it later?
Yes, you can freeze fried chicken and reheat it later. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing, and let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating it.