How Long to Reheat Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer for Juicy, Tender Results

Chicken breast is a versatile ingredient that can be used in all sorts of dishes. However, leftovers inevitably happen. When it comes time to reheat your chicken breast, using an air fryer is a great option to keep it tender and juicy But how long should you reheat chicken breast in an air fryer? Let’s take a look

Why Reheat Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer?

An air fryer is a small convection oven that sits on a counter and cooks food with hot air. In recent years, air fryers have become more popular because they can make food crispy and tasty with little to no oil.

Reheating chicken breast in an air fryer has some advantages over using a microwave or conventional oven

• Retains moisture and tenderness: The hot air circulation of an air fryer heats food quickly from the outside in. This keeps the delicate chicken breast meat tender and juicy.

• Achieves a crispy exterior: The high heat of an air fryer gives leftovers a crispy exterior without drying them out.

• Cooks evenly: Air fryers cook food fast and evenly, eliminating cold spots.

• Adds flavor: air-frying chicken breast gives it a deliciously crispy taste that you can’t get from microwaving it.

• Quick and easy: Air fryers preheat and cook food much faster than a full-size oven.

For these reasons, an air fryer is an excellent way to reheat leftover chicken breast so it tastes fresh and delicious.

What is the Best Temperature for Reheating Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer?

You should set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) when you want to reheat chicken breast. The chicken breast can be heated through quickly and completely at this temperature without getting too done.

When the temperature goes above 375°F (190°C), the chicken breast meat can become dry. Lower temperatures may not heat the chicken through properly.

So for the best results, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) before placing the chicken breast inside.

How Long Does it Take to Reheat Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer?

The reheating time for chicken breast in an air fryer can vary based on the size and thickness of the pieces, as well as your specific model of air fryer.

As a general guideline, it takes 6-8 minutes to reheat a single boneless, skinless chicken breast in an air fryer.

Here are more specific reheating times based on the size and type of chicken breast:

• Small chicken breast slices or tenders: 3-5 minutes
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (6-8 oz): 6-8 minutes
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (12-16 oz): 8-10 minutes
• Bone-in chicken breasts: 10-12 minutes
• Large chicken breasts (over 1 lb): 12-15 minutes

These times are for chicken breast pieces that are completely thawed and at refrigerator temperature. If reheating frozen chicken breasts, add 3-5 additional minutes.

No matter what size you are reheating, always use an instant-read thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken breast reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Step-by-Step Guide for Reheating Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer

Follow these simple steps for reheating juicy, tender chicken breast in an air fryer:

1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This takes around 3-5 minutes depending on your model.

2. Pat chicken dry and brush with oil (optional). This helps achieve a crispier exterior.

3. Place chicken breast in air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.

4. Air fry for 6-8 minutes (time varies based on size of chicken). Set timer and air fry at 350°F.

5. Flip chicken and air fry 3-4 minutes more. This ensures even cooking.

6. Check internal temperature with a thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F.

7. Let chicken rest 1-2 minutes before serving. The resting time allows juices to redistribute.

8. Enjoy your reheated chicken breast! Dig in while it’s hot and juicy.

The great thing about air fryers is that they require very little preheating time, so you can enjoy a freshly reheated chicken breast meal in under 15 minutes.

Tips for the Best Results When Reheating Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer

Follow these tips and tricks for ensuring your reheated chicken breast turns out moist and delicious using an air fryer:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Too much chicken prevents proper air circulation. Reheat in batches for even cooking.

• Use a meat thermometer to accurately determine doneness instead of relying solely on time.

• Brush with oil or broth to prevent chicken from drying out.

• Flip halfway through for the best texture on both sides.

• Let it rest before cutting to allow juices to absorb back into the chicken breast.

• Add extra flavor by seasoning before or after reheating. A spritz of lemon or sprinkle of herbs goes a long way.

• Reheat within 4 days for optimal freshness and food safety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reheating Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer

It’s easy to end up with dried out, rubbery chicken if you don’t use proper technique when reheating it in an air fryer. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Overcooking: Relying on time alone can lead to overcooked chicken. Always use a thermometer to check for 165°F.

• Too high heat: Temperatures over 375°F can make the chicken breast meat tough and dry. Stick to 350°F.

• Not preheating: Failing to preheat prevents even cooking and browning.

• Overcrowding: Too much chicken prevents air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.

• Not flipping: One side will get much crispier and drier if you don’t flip halfway through cooking.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into chicken straight out of the air fryer causes juices to run out.

With the right reheating time and a few simple tricks, you can easily reheat juicy, flavorful leftover chicken breast in your air fryer. In just 10-15 minutes, you can enjoy a quick meal that tastes like it just came off the grill or oven. Follow this guide for tender, safe results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to reheat a frozen chicken breast in an air fryer?

It takes 10-15 minutes to reheat a frozen chicken breast in an air fryer, depending on thickness. Add 3-5 minutes to the normal reheating time for refrigerator temperature chicken. Always check internal temperature.

Can you reheat a grilled chicken breast in an air fryer?

Yes, an air fryer works great for reheating grilled chicken breasts. Follow the same guidelines for time and temperature. The air fryer mimics the charred flavor.

Is reheated chicken breast safe to eat?

Yes, as long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F and it is stored properly before reheating, leftover chicken breast is safe to eat when reheated. Only reheat it once for food safety.

Can you reheat a breaded chicken breast in an air fryer?

Breaded chicken breast can be reheated in an air fryer to crispy it back up. Use a lower temperature around 300°F and increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes to account for the breading.

What is the best way to reheat a chicken breast besides an air fryer?

The oven or skillet are good alternatives. For the oven, use 350°F while monitoring temperature. For the skillet, use medium heat with a sprinkle of water to steam and retain moisture.