Hello, fellow fried chicken aficionados! It’s your culinary buddy, Mikey, here to tackle a question as timeless as the quest for the crispiest crust: How to reheat fried chicken in the microwave. We’ve all been there—faced with the dilemma of leftover chicken and the longing for that just-cooked taste and texture. Let’s dive into the art and science of reviving your fried chicken to its former glory using the microwave.
Advantages to Microwaving Fried Chicken
Do you want the good news or bad news first? Let’s start with the good news about using your microwave to reheat fried chicken.
Quick and Convenient
The microwave wins hands down on speed. In just a few minutes, you can transform cold, sad chicken into a warm, inviting meal, making it a go-to method for those in a hurry.
Energy Efficient
Compared to firing up an oven, the microwave uses less energy for the short bursts needed to reheat food, which can be a little kinder to your utility bills.
Disadvantages to Microwaving Fried Chicken
Potential for Sogginess
The microwave’s biggest downfall is its tendency to steam food, which can mean the crispy, crunchy exterior of your chicken becomes a bit soggy.
Uneven Heating
Microwaves can sometimes heat food unevenly, leading to hot spots and cooler areas, which isn’t ideal for the texture of reheated fried chicken.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating Fried Chicken in the Microwave
Step 1: Let Chicken Come to Room Temperature
Remove your fried chicken from the fridge and let it sit out for about 10 minutes. This step reduces the shock of rapid heating, promoting more even warmth throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Plate
Line a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Arrange the chicken pieces on the plate, not touching, to allow for even heat distribution.
Step 3: Cover Lightly
Drape a paper towel lightly over the top of the chicken. This helps manage moisture without steaming the chicken too much.
Step 4: Use Low Power
Set your microwave to a low power setting, around 30-50%. This slower approach helps heat the chicken more evenly without zapping away the moisture or making the coating too tough.
Step 5: Microwave in Short Bursts
Heat the chicken in 30-second intervals, checking the temperature between each. For smaller pieces, you might only need a minute or two. Larger pieces may require more time.
Step 6: Check for Readiness
Ensure the chicken is heated through to at least 165°F (74°C) internally. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Allow the chicken to sit for a minute after heating. This rest period helps redistribute the heat and finishes the warming process.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
Don’t Overcrowd
Microwaving too many pieces at once can lead to uneven heating. Work in batches if you have a lot of chicken to reheat.
Refresh the Crisp
If you’re not strictly limited to using a microwave, a quick stint under a broiler after microwaving can help crisp up the skin.
Moisture is Key
The paper towel technique helps manage moisture levels, keeping the chicken from drying out while also preventing it from becoming too soggy.
Conclusion
While the microwave might not be your first thought for reheating something as delicate as fried chicken, with the right technique, it’s entirely possible to bring back much of that crunchy exterior and moist interior we all love. The key lies in moderation—moderate temperature, moderate time, and a little bit of patience.
Remember, the goal is to reheat, not recook. By following these steps, you can enjoy your fried chicken nearly as much as when it first came out of the fryer. Bon appétit!
FAQs: How To Reheat Fried Chicken In Microwave
Can I reheat boneless fried chicken the same way?
Yes, the same principles apply, though boneless pieces may require slightly less time due to their smaller size and lack of bone insulation.
How long does fried chicken last in the fridge?
Properly stored, fried chicken can last up to four days in the fridge. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.
Can I reheat fried chicken in the microwave more than once?
It’s best practice to only reheat what you will eat. Repeated reheating can degrade the quality and raise food safety concerns.
What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken?
Cool the chicken completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.