How to Reheat Fried Chicken in Air Fryer
Made-from-scratch flavor in minutes! Reheat leftover fried chicken to crispy, mouthwatering perfection with this easy air fryer guide.
Equipment
Ingredients
- Leftover fried chicken Cooled to room temperature or cold from the refrigerator
- Oil sprayer bottle
- Optional extra seasonings
Instructions
- Allow chicken to cool - It's important that previously cooked fried chicken is at room temperature before being placed into the hot air fryer, otherwise it can steam and result in soggy chicken with soft skin.
- Cut larger pieces into smaller nuggets or strips - For best and most even results, cut any larger chicken pieces like breasts or thighs into smaller 1-2 inch chunks or strips before air frying. The smaller the better for getting crispy.
- Coat with oil - Use a oil sprayer bottle, brush, paper towel or your fingers to lightly coat the chicken pieces all over with a thin layer of high heat oil. This helps achieve crispy skin when reheating.
- Season (optional) - At this point, feel free to sprinkle or drizzle on any extra seasonings or sauces as desired for added flavor.
- Arrange in single layer in basket - Place the oiled chicken pieces in the basket of the air fryer. The pieces of fried chicken should be in a single layer without overcrowding. Work in batches for even cooking if needed.
- Air fry at 365-375°F - Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes at a temperature between 365-375°F until hot throughout and crispy on the outside, flipping the pieces over halfway through cooking. Depending on the size of your chicken pieces, air fryer chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, up to 5-6 minutes per side for large chicken breast or thigh pieces.
- Check internal temperature - For food safety, use an instant read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Allow to rest - Once air fried hot and crispy, let chicken pieces rest for 3-4 minutes out of the air fryer before biting in for optimum juicy texture.
- Repeat as needed - Cook any remaining chicken in additional batches.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is completely cooled to room temperature before air frying to prevent steaming and sogginess
- Cut larger pieces into smaller nuggets or strips for even crispiness
- Use cooking spray on the air fryer basket to prevent sticking
- Work in unmuddled batches and flip chicken halfway through cooking
- Adjust temperature down if browning too quickly
- Use tongs for easy flipping and removal
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer
- Let chicken rest 1-2 minutes after cooking for optimum juiciness