If you're looking for a fast and convenient way to reheat cooked chicken, using an air fryer is a great option. Air fryers are known for their ability to cook and crisp up food quickly and evenly, making them a perfect choice for reheating leftover chicken. In this article, we'll go over the steps for reheating chicken in an air fryer and provide some helpful tips along the way.
Some Tips
It is generally safe to reheat fried chicken in an air fryer. The air fryer can help to quickly and evenly reheat the chicken, and can also help to restore some of the crispy texture that the chicken may have lost after being cooked the first time.
That being said, it is important to handle and store the fried chicken safely to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Here are some tips to follow:
- Cool the fried chicken to room temperature before storing it in the fridge or freezer.
- If you are storing the chicken in the fridge, make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it in foil or plastic wrap. It is best to eat the chicken within 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen fried chicken can be kept for up to 3 months.
- When you are ready to reheat the chicken, make sure to do so thoroughly to kill any potential bacteria that may have developed while the chicken was stored. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Reheat Chicken in an Air Fryer
Here are the steps to follow for perfectly reheated chicken in an air fryer:
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer.
Before you start cooking, it's a good idea to preheat the air fryer. This will help the chicken reheat faster and more evenly. To preheat the air fryer, set it to 350°F and let it run for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket.
Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to add the chicken. Try to arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving some space between them to allow hot air to circulate. If you want to make the chicken extra crispy, you can spray it with a little bit of oil or cooking spray before cooking it.
Step 3: Cook the chicken.
Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook the chicken for 7-10 minutes, or until it is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It's important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 4: Serve the chicken.
After the chicken has finished cooking in the air fryer, take it out and let it sit for a bit before serving. The chicken is now ready to be enjoyed as a main course or used in sandwiches, salads, or other dishes.
Conclusion
Reheating chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy leftover cooked chicken. By following the steps outlined above and using a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, you can enjoy perfectly reheated chicken in no time. Plus, using an air fryer to reheat chicken helps to preserve its flavor and texture, making it a tasty and convenient choice for a quick meal.
Annie Shepherd is a 38-year-old woman who loves reading, swimming, and practicing yoga. In her free time, she enjoys writing a blog about all things related to the kitchen and food. When she's not busy working or keeping up with her hobbies, Annie can be found trying out new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients in the kitchen.
