How To Reheat Rotisserie Chicken In Air Fryer Perfectly?

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There’s nothing quite like the convenience of picking up a delicious rotisserie chicken on the way home from work. It’s quick, easy, and always hits the spot. But what happens when you have leftovers? You don’t want to throw it away, but you are afraid that reheating it can leave the chicken dry and flavorless. That’s where the air fryer comes in.

Knowing how to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer has become my go-to method for achieving perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat. As someone who frequently meal preps with rotisserie chicken, I’ve experimented with various reheating methods, but the air fryer consistently delivers the best results. In this ultimate guide, I’ll share my tips and tricks to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your meal prep routine easier than ever.

Table of Contents

Necessary ingredients and equipment

When it comes to reheating rotisserie chicken in an air fryer, you don’t need many ingredients or special equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Rotisserie chicken leftovers
Air fryer
Cooking spray or oil (optional)

That’s it! Most air fryers come with a basket or tray that’s perfect for reheating chicken. If your air fryer is on the small side, you may need to reheat the chicken in batches. As for cooking spray or oil, this is optional and can be used to prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket or tray.

Why is an air fryer the best option for reheating rotisserie chicken?

An air fryer is the best option for reheating rotisserie chicken for several reasons:

It uses hot air to cook the chicken, which helps to maintain its moisture and prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
The circulating hot air ensures that the chicken is evenly reheated, so you don’t end up with cold spots or overcooked edges.
It’s quick and efficient – you can reheat the chicken in just a few minutes, without having to wait for a conventional oven to preheat.
Unlike a microwave, which can leave the chicken with a rubbery texture, an air fryer can help to maintain the crispy skin on the chicken, while also reheating the meat inside.
An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for many other tasks, making it a worthwhile investment for any home cook.

How to prepare the chicken before reheating

Before you reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken to ensure that it stays moist and flavorful. Here are the steps for preparing the chicken:

Remove the chicken from the bones and separate the meat into pieces. This will help the chicken to reheat more evenly and ensure that each piece is heated through.
Store the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you’re using aluminum foil, make sure to wrap it tightly and seal the edges so that steam can’t escape.
If the chicken has been in the refrigerator for more than a day, it’s a good idea to sprinkle a little bit of water or chicken broth over the meat to help it stay moist during the reheating process.
If desired, you can also season the chicken with additional spices or sauces before reheating to add more flavor. However, be careful not to add too much liquid or sauce, as this can cause the chicken to become soggy.
Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before reheating. This will help it to reheat more evenly and prevent the outside from becoming overcooked while the inside is still cold.

How to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer

Reheating rotisserie chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy process that results in delicious, moist and flavorful chicken. Here are three different ways to reheat different types of rotisserie chicken in an air fryer:

How to reheat whole rotisserie chicken in air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
Place the whole rotisserie chicken in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray.
Reheat the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Check the chicken by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should be 165°F.
Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before carving and serving.

How to reheat shredded rotisserie chicken in air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place the shredded chicken in the air fryer basket or on the tray.
Reheat the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Toss the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure that it’s heated evenly.
Once the chicken is fully reheated, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to reheat rotisserie chicken breast in air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F
Slice the chicken breast into thin pieces and place them in the air fryer basket or on the tray.
Reheat the chicken for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure that it’s heated evenly.
Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How long to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer?

The time it takes to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer can vary depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of the air fryer. As a general guideline, it’s best to reheat chicken for 10-15 minutes at 350°F.

How to check if the chicken is fully reheated

To check if the rotisserie chicken is fully reheated, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to touch the bone. The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165°F to ensure that it’s safe to eat. If the temperature is lower than 165°F, continue reheating the chicken until it reaches the safe temperature.

So, what to do if the chicken is still cold in the middle? If the chicken is still cold in the middle, continue reheating it in the air fryer. It’s important to make sure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If the outside of the chicken is getting too browned or overcooked, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning while the middle heats up.

Alternatively, you can remove any fully reheated pieces of chicken and continue reheating the rest until they are done. Remember to check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure that it’s fully reheated.

Tips to get crispy when you reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer

If you want to maintain the crispy texture of your rotisserie chicken when reheating it in an air fryer, here are some tips to follow:

Avoid adding any sauce or liquid to the chicken before reheating, as this can cause it to become soggy.
Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil before placing it in the air fryer. This will help to crisp up the skin.
Reheat the chicken at a high temperature, such as 400°F, for the last few minutes of the reheating process. This will help to crisp up the skin without overcooking the meat inside.
Flip the chicken over halfway through the reheating process to ensure that both sides get crispy.
If you’re reheating chicken wings or drumsticks, place them in the air fryer in a single layer with enough space between them to allow the hot air to circulate.
Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the skin to crisp up even more.

See more: How to Reheat Wings in Air Fryer: The Best Method for Delicious Results

Other ways to reheat rotisserie chicken

While reheating rotisserie chicken in an air fryer is a great option, there are other ways to reheat it as well. Here are some other methods to consider:

Microwave

The microwave is a quick and easy way to reheat rotisserie chicken, but it can also cause the chicken to become dry and rubbery if not reheated properly. Here’s how to do it:

Remove the chicken from the bones and place it in a microwave-safe dish.
Cover the dish with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid.
Heat the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes per piece, or until heated through.
Check the chicken by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should be 165°F.
Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Oven

Reheating rotisserie chicken in the oven takes longer than other methods, but it can help to maintain the chicken’s moisture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
Heat the chicken for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Remove the foil and broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to crisp up the skin, if desired.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 165°F.

Stovetop

Reheating rotisserie chicken on the stovetop is a good option if you want to add additional flavor to the chicken. Here’s how to do it:

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of cooking oil or butter.
Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s heated through.
Use a meat thermometer to make sure the temperature inside the chicken has reached at least 165°F.

How to store leftover reheated chicken

If you have any leftover reheated chicken, it’s important to store it properly to ensure that it stays safe and fresh. Here are some tips for storing leftover reheated chicken:

Let the chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Store the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will help prevent it from drying out in the refrigerator.
Label the container or wrap with the date that the chicken was reheated. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the refrigerator.
Store the chicken in the refrigerator within 2 hours of reheating it. If you are not going to eat it within 3-4 days, you can freeze it for later use.
When reheating the leftover chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
Avoid reheating leftover chicken more than once to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illness.

Explore more: How To Reheat Fried Chicken In Air Fryer For Perfect Crispy Texture

Serving suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions for reheated rotisserie chicken in an air fryer:

Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Make a salad with the chicken and your favorite greens, such as spinach or mixed greens.
Use the chicken to make a sandwich or wrap with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
Serve the chicken with a side of rice, quinoa, or other grains.
Use the chicken as a topping for a homemade pizza, along with your favorite vegetables and cheese.
Make a soup or stew with the chicken, such as chicken noodle soup or chicken and vegetable stew.
Serve the chicken with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.
Make a chicken salad with the reheated chicken, along with celery, onion, and mayo.

FAQs

Is it safe to reheat rotisserie chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, it’s safe to reheat rotisserie chicken in an air fryer as long as you follow the correct reheating procedures. The chicken should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it’s safe to eat.

Can I reheat other types of chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can reheat other types of chicken in an air fryer, such as grilled or baked chicken. However, the reheating time and temperature may vary depending on the type of chicken and its thickness.

Can I reheat vegetables in the same air fryer as the chicken?

Yes, you can reheat vegetables in the same air fryer as the chicken, as long as they are cooked separately. It’s important to keep the vegetables in a separate basket or tray to prevent them from getting contaminated with chicken juices or particles. The temperature and cooking time for vegetables may differ from chicken, so it’s important to adjust the settings accordingly.

How many times can I reheat the chicken?

It’s generally recommended to only reheat chicken once to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illness. Reheating the chicken multiple times can cause it to dry out and lose its flavor and texture. If you have leftover chicken after reheating it once, store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to reheat rotisserie chicken in air fryer is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the delicious taste of leftover chicken without sacrificing its texture and flavor. With the right temperature and time settings, you can have perfectly reheated chicken that’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy your reheated rotisserie chicken in an air fryer with confidence, knowing that it’s both safe and delicious.