How to Reheat Fried Chicken Breast in Air Fryer for Perfect Results

By Avi Green October 05, 2023

Barbecue enthusiasts know the struggle all too well: you wake up the next day and find leftover fried chicken in the fridge, and all you want is for it to taste as crispy and delicious as it did fresh out of the fryer. Luckily, learning how to reheat fried chicken breast in air fryer can save you from soggy breading and dry meat. In this guide, we will delve into the best techniques to reheat your fried chicken using an air fryer.

how to reheat fried chicken breast in air fryer

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a kitchen appliance that has gained massive popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Air fryers cook food with hot air, resulting in a crispy texture similar to deep frying but without the oil. This makes it perfect for reheating fried items. When you reheat fried chicken breast in an air fryer, you get the best of both worlds: crispiness and moisture.

Steps to Reheat Fried Chicken Breast

Preparation

Before you even think about turning on that air fryer, it's crucial to prepare your chicken breasts. Take the fried chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the chicken reheat more evenly, reducing the chances of biting into a piece of chicken that's hot on the outside but cold on the inside.

Using the Air Fryer

Now, let's talk about the actual reheating process. Set your air fryer to 350F (175C). While it's preheating, arrange your chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure there's a bit of space between each piece for the hot air to circulate. Avoid overcrowding the basket or stacking the chicken pieces.

Timing and Temperature

Reheat Time

Reheating times can vary based on the size and thickness of the chicken breast. On average, it will take around 7-10 minutes to reheat your fried chicken in an air fryer. Flip the chicken halfway through the process to ensure even reheating. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 165F (74C) when the chicken is fully reheated.

Pro Tips for Extra Crispiness

Mist with Oil

If you really want that extra crispiness, consider misting your chicken lightly with a bit of cooking spray or oil before placing it in the air fryer. This step is optional but highly recommended for the ultimate crispy texture.

Check Frequently

The air fryer cooks rapidly, and different brands might have varying heat levels. Therefore, it's always wise to check your chicken frequently to prevent it from drying out or becoming overly crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

No barbeque enthusiast likes a kitchen mishap, and reheating fried chicken is no exception. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Overcrowding the Basket

Overcrowding the air fryer basket will lead to uneven cooking. To get that crispy exterior, always make sure to arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Just like an oven, an air fryer should be preheated to ensure even cooking. Always give your air fryer a few minutes to reach the desired temperature before placing your chicken inside.

Additional Resources for Barbecue Lovers

If you love everything BBQ, you might find these articles useful:

FAQs

Can I reheat frozen fried chicken breast in an air fryer?

Yes, you can. However, you may need to increase the temperature slightly and add more time to ensure it's thoroughly reheated. It's best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.