How to Reheat Fried Chicken Perfectly: Maintain Crispy, Juicy Texture Every Time

Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide — crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. But once it’s reheated, many home cooks end up with soggy, dry results. The key to reheating fried chicken properly lies in preserving that ideal balance of crispiness and juiciness. In this guide, we’ll share proven methods to reheat fried chicken so it tastes nearly as good as fresh — no soggy liners or dry meat allowed.

Understanding the Context

Why Fried Chicken Becomes Sad When Reheated

Fried chicken’s signature crispy coating is what makes it irresistible. However, exposure to heat during reheating causes moisture loss and softenens the crust. If reheated improperly, the texture becomes wet, and the chicken can lose its mouthwatering crunch.

The good news: With the right technique, you can restore crispiness and drink up on that signature flavor.

how to reheat fried chicken

Key Insights

Best Methods to Reheat Fried Chicken

1. Oven Reheating – Retains Maximum Crispiness

The oven is one of the best methods for reheating fried chicken without sacrificing crispness.

How to do it:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Place fried chicken breast or drumettes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, preventing sogginess.
  • Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Avoid covering the chicken — loose or open positioning preserves crunch.

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Final Thoughts

Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to give a golden, fresh finish.

2. Air Fryer – Quick and Crispy

Air fryers deliver restaurant-quality crispiness when reheating fried chicken.

How to do it:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  • Layer chicken pieces in a single layer (no overlapping).
  • Heat for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Optional: Lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with melted butter for extra crunch and flavor.

3. Microwave – Fast, But Crisp Backup Needed

While microwaving quickly reheats chicken, it often leaves it soggy. However, you can maintain texture with smart steps.

How to do it: