How to Heat Up a Rotisserie Chicken and Keep It Juicy
Written By James Morgan
Welcome, barbecue enthusiasts! Whether planning a family dinner or preparing for an outdoor grill party, understanding how to heat up a rotisserie chicken properly is essential. Not only does it make for a convenient quick meal, but it also can serve as an excellent base for a multitude of dishes.
Everybody loves a perfectly roasted rotisserie chicken, but reheating it can often lead to dry and less appetizing results. Fortunately, I've gathered the best methods to reheat your rotisserie chicken without compromising on its juiciness and flavor.
The Basics of Reheating Rotisserie Chicken
First things first, let's get one thing straight: not all reheating methods are created equal, especially when it comes to keeping your chicken moist and flavorful. Each method has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. From the oven to stovetop techniques, here's an extensive look into what works best.
Reheating in the Oven
The oven is often the go-to method for reheating rotisserie chicken because it is efficient and delivers consistent results. Start by preheating your oven to 350F (175C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and add a bit of broth or water this step is crucial to keep the meat moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to hold in the heat and moisture. Reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
Pros:
- Even heating
- Retains moisture if done correctly
- Better texture and flavor
Cons:
- Takes time
- Consumes more energy
Microwave Method
The microwave is an incredibly convenient tool for reheating, especially when you are in a rush. However, it is not without its drawbacks. Place your rotisserie chicken on a microwave-safe plate, and cover it with a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Add a small amount of water or broth before covering it to keep it moist. Heat it in 1 to 2-minute intervals, checking regularly to avoid overcooking.
Pros:
- Quick and efficient
- Convenient for small portions
- Uneven heating
- Risk of drying out the chicken
- Not ideal for large portions
- Quick and simple
- Makes the skin crispy
- Requires attention
- Not ideal for whole chicken
- Fast
- Keeps skin crispy
- Limited capacity
- May require flipping
- Adds smoky flavor
- Makes the skin crispy
- Requires constant monitoring
- Cooking time may vary
Cons:
Stovetop Technique
Reheating your rotisserie chicken on the stovetop provides a quick and effective way to bring your chicken to the perfect temperature. Place a skillet on medium heat and add a little bit of oil or butter. Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and add a splash of broth or water. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches the desired temperature.
Pros:
Cons:
Air Fryer
The air fryer is an excellent method to reheat rotisserie chicken while keeping it crispy and juicy. Preheat the air fryer to 360F (180C) and place the chicken in the basket. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
Pros:
Cons:
BBQ GrillThe Enthusiasts Choice
If you are a true barbecue enthusiast, nothing beats reheating your rotisserie chicken on the grill. This method not only warms up your chicken but also imparts that smoky barbecue flavor we all crave. Preheat your barbecue grill to medium heat. Place the chicken on the grill rack away from direct heat and close the lid. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pros:
Cons:
Extra Tips for Reheating Rotisserie Chicken
Here are some additional tips to consider when reheating your chicken to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful:
Keep the Skin On
Keeping the skin on helps lock in the moisture during reheating, which results in a juicier final product.
Use Broth or Water
Adding a splash of broth or water not only helps in retaining moisture but also adds a bit of flavor back into the meat.
Check the Temperature
Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (74C) to guarantee it's heated through.
When to Use Each Method
Oven: Choose this method when you have more time and need to reheat a large portion.
Microwave: Ideal for quick reheating of smaller portions.
Stovetop: Best for reheating portions without drying them out, especially when you want the skin crispy.
Air Fryer: Great for fast and crispy results.
BBQ Grill: Perfect for adding a smoky flavor and crispiness to your reheated chicken.
Creative Ways to Use Reheated Rotisserie Chicken
Why stop at just reheating when you can get creative with your leftovers? Here are some delicious ideas that will make your reheated rotisserie chicken feel like a brand-new meal.
Tacos
Shred your reheated chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with a variety of toppings like avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
Quesadillas
Use your reheated chicken as a filling for ooey-gooey quesadillas. Add some cheese, onions, and peppers for extra flavors.
Salads
Simply shred or chunk the reheated chicken and toss it in a fresh garden or Caesar salad.
Sandwiches
Place reheated slices of chicken in a hearty sandwich with spinach, cheese, and your choice of condiments.
Soups
Add diced or shredded reheated chicken into a simmering pot of soup for extra protein and flavor.
FAQs
Q: How long can I store rotisserie chicken?
A: Generally, it can be stored in the fridge for up to four days and in the freezer for up to four months.
Q: Can I reheat the chicken more than once?
A: It is advisable not to reheat more than once to maintain the quality and flavor of the meat.
Q: What is the best way to cut rotisserie chicken?
A: For cutting tips, check out our detailed guide on how to cut rotisserie chicken. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
