Chicken is a versatile protein that can be incorporated into many delicious meals. Leftover chicken is also a great ingredient to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners. However, reheating chicken properly is key to maintaining taste and texture. When using the microwave, it’s important to understand how long to reheat chicken.
Should You Reheat Chicken in the Microwave?
The microwave provides a fast and convenient way to reheat chicken. However microwaves tend to draw moisture out of food which can make chicken dry or rubbery. Microwaving can also create hot and cold spots, leading to uneven cooking.
While the microwave is not ideal, you can take steps to mitigate the downsides As long as you are mindful about power level and cooking time, the microwave can yield decent reheating results.
Tips for Reheating Moist, Tender Chicken
Follow these tips to reheat chicken in the microwave successfully
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Reheat the chicken at 20% power to make sure it’s heated evenly and gently. Use a lower power level. High power can overcook the outer layers.
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Reheat in short increments – Microwave chicken in 1-2 minute intervals, checking periodically. This prevents overdrying.
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Allow resting time – Let chicken rest 2-3 minutes after microwaving so heat distributes evenly.
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Add a splash of liquid—Add a little water or chicken broth to keep things from drying out.
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Cover with a damp paper towel – Traps in steam to keep chicken moist. Vent to allow excess steam to escape.
How Long to Microwave Chicken
Microwaving times ultimately depend on a few factors:
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Size—The longer it takes to reheat chicken, the more of it you have. It might take one breast one to two minutes, but three to four minutes for a plate of chicken pieces.
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Thickness – Boneless chicken breast reheats faster than a thick chicken thigh or leg.
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Microwave wattage: Microwaves with more wattage will heat food up more quickly than microwaves with less wattage. Refer to your appliance specs.
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Starting temperature – Refrigerated chicken takes longer than chicken left at room temp.
As a general guideline, 1-2 minutes per chicken breast or 2-3 minutes per 4-6 ounces of chicken pieces should suffice when using 50% power. Check for doneness and continue microwaving in 30 second intervals if needed.
The best way to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F is to use a food thermometer. This prevents undercooking.
Avoid Overdrying with Proper Storage
Proper storage is key to prevent chicken from drying out when initially cooked. Here are some tips:
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Let chicken cool completely before storing in the fridge in an airtight container.
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If freezing for later use, wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags.
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Only store chicken for 3-4 days in the fridge to maintain freshness.
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When ready to reheat, thaw frozen chicken gradually in the fridge overnight before microwaving.
Get the Best Results with Smart Microwaving
It is possible to enjoy tasty reheated chicken using the microwave when you are mindful of cook times, power levels, and storage practices. Allowing the chicken to rest before serving and adding a splash of moisture also improves juiciness. Follow these tips to get the best results when reheating chicken in the microwave.
How to Reheat Chicken in the Oven
To warm up bigger pieces of chicken or a bird that’s still on the bone, the oven is the best place to do it. Here’s how it’s done:
Step 2: Prep the Meat
Place the leftover chicken into the air fryer basket (or on the air fryer tray, depending on your model) in a single layer.
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FAQ
Can you reheat cooked chicken in the microwave?
If it’s a very small amount (a serving for a single meal), begin with 1. 5 minutes of reheating using the normal setting on your microwave–usually 1000 watts. If you have a large amount of chicken, begin with 2. 5-3 minutes of microwaving. At the halfway mark, carefully flip the chicken over so both sides heat evenly.
Is 3 minutes enough to reheat chicken?
Reheat: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes per piece of chicken. Check Temperature: Check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 75°C (165°F). Jan 3, 2025.
Can you heat up raw chicken in the microwave?
While you technically can cook raw chicken in the microwave, it’s generally not recommended due to the risk of uneven cooking and potential for foodborne illness. Microwaves can cook food unevenly, potentially leaving some parts undercooked and harboring bacteria.
Can You reheat chicken in a microwave?
For reheating chicken, the ideal power level is 50%. Setting the microwave to 50% power ensures a gentler reheating process, allowing the heat to penetrate the chicken more evenly without causing excessive moisture loss. This power level reduces the risk of overcooking the outer layers of the chicken while the inner portion remains cold.
How long does it take to reheat cooked chicken?
A: The reheating time will vary depending on the size and amount of chicken. Reheat for 30 to 60 seconds at a time, stirring or turning every 30 seconds, until the internal temperature reaches 74°F (165°C). Q: Can I reheat cooked chicken in the microwave multiple times?.
Can you cook chicken breast in a microwave?
Place the whole chicken breast or cut in small pieces. Keep it on a microwave-safe plate. Do not overcrowd the plate and leave space in-between each piece. Cover the meat with a dampened paper towel. Reheat it in a microwave on high for one to two minutes. Flip the pieces and periodically check the internal temperature.
Can I reheat cooked chicken without a cover?
Can I reheat cooked chicken in the microwave without a cover. It is not recommended to reheat cooked chicken in the microwave without a cover. Reheating cooked chicken safely and effectively is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses.
How long does it take to cook chicken in a microwave?
For an average-sized chicken’s leftovers, it would normally take around 1. 5 to 2 minutes on each side. This number, however, can vary depending upon the size of your chicken and microwave power. Lower wattage microwaves will take longer than higher wattage microwaves, so adjust accordingly. The times given here correspond to a 1000-watt microwave.
Can You reheat breaded chicken?
You can do this by using an oven safe dish and heating in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave safe plate and cover with microwave safe plastic wrap, making sure to vent one corner. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes per piece of chicken. Can I reheat breaded chicken leftovers?.