How To Reheat KFC Chicken (4 Best Ways)

KFC chicken is a popular fast food item known for its crispy skin and juicy meat.

However, it’s not uncommon to have leftovers or want to reheat it for another meal.

To make sure you get the best taste and texture, it’s important to know the right way to reheat KFC chicken.

In this article, I’ll go over all the methods for reheating KFC chicken, including oven, microwave, stove, and air fryer.

Let’s dive in!

How To Reheat KFC Chicken

Reheating KFC Chicken in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the KFC chicken on a baking tray and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
3. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to crisp up the skin.
5. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pros and Cons of Using the Oven Method

Pros:

• Reheating in the oven is a simple and straightforward process.
• The oven can evenly heat the chicken, ensuring that it is heated through and hot.
• The added step of removing the foil and baking for an additional 5-10 minutes can help crisp up the skin, making it taste similar to freshly fried KFC chicken.

Cons:

• The oven can take longer to preheat compared to other methods, such as the microwave.
• The oven method requires more equipment, such as a baking tray and aluminum foil, which may not be readily available.
• The chicken can dry out if left in the oven for too long, so it is important to monitor it closely while reheating.

Reheating KFC Chicken in the Microwave

1. Remove the KFC chicken from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Cover the plate with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a lid.
3. Heat the chicken on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Check the chicken and continue to heat it in 30-second intervals until it is fully heated through.
5. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pros and Cons of Using the Microwave Method

Pros:

• Reheating KFC chicken in the microwave is quick and convenient, taking only a few minutes.
• It is a great option when you are in a hurry and need to reheat the chicken quickly.
• The microwave is easy to use and does not require any special equipment.

Cons:

• The microwave can cause the chicken to become tough and chewy if it is heated for too long.
• The chicken may not be evenly heated, resulting in some parts being hot while others are still cold.
• The skin of the chicken may become soggy when reheated in the microwave, which can affect the overall taste and texture of the chicken.

Reheating KFC Chicken on the Stove

1. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add a small amount of oil to the pan to prevent the chicken from sticking.
3. Place the KFC chicken in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. If necessary, cover the pan with a lid to help evenly heat the chicken.
5. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pros and Cons of Using the Stove Method:

Pros:

• Reheating KFC chicken on the stove can help preserve the crispy texture of the skin.
• The stovetop method allows for more precise temperature control, ensuring that the chicken is heated through without being overcooked.
• The stovetop method is versatile and can be used with a variety of pans, including skillets, frying pans, and woks.

Cons:

• The stovetop method can take longer than other methods, such as the microwave, to reheat the chicken.
• It requires more attention and monitoring to ensure that the chicken is evenly heated and does not burn.
• The stovetop method requires a heat source and a pan, which may not be readily available in all circumstances.

Reheating KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

Reheating KFC chicken in an air fryer can be an efficient and delicious alternative to traditional oven heating methods.

Steps for air fryer reheating:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
2. Place the KFC chicken pieces in the air fryer basket
3. Set the timer for 7-8 minutes
4. Flip the chicken pieces halfway through to ensure even heating
5. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F
6. Serve and enjoy!

Pros of using the air fryer method:

• Quick and efficient heating
• Maintains the crispy exterior of the KFC chicken
• Uses less oil than deep frying

Cons of using the air fryer method:

• May not achieve the same level of crispiness as deep frying
• Limited capacity for larger quantities of chicken
• Higher upfront cost compared to traditional ovens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several different methods for reheating KFC chicken, each with its own pros and cons.

The best method for reheating KFC chicken ultimately depends on personal preference and the equipment available.

Oven reheating is a good option for those who have the time and patience to wait for their chicken to heat through, while microwave reheating is the quickest and most convenient option.

Air fryer reheating is a great option for those who want to enjoy crispy chicken without the added fat of deep frying.

When choosing the best method, consider the taste, texture, and crispiness you desire, as well as the time and equipment available.

Whichever method you choose, the goal is to have delicious, warm KFC chicken ready to enjoy in no time!