How Long to Reheat Chicken in Oven at 400 Degrees? A Definitive Guide
Reheating chicken in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is a viable method, but requires careful monitoring. Generally, expect to reheat chicken for approximately 15-20 minutes, but this depends greatly on the size and thickness of the chicken piece and whether you’re heating from refrigerated or frozen. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C).
Why Reheat Chicken in the Oven? A Superior Method
Reheating chicken in the oven is often preferred over methods like microwaving or frying because it’s more likely to preserve the chicken’s moisture and flavor. While a microwave can make chicken rubbery and frying can add unwanted oil, the oven offers a more gentle and even heating process.
The Benefits of Using the Oven
- Moisture Retention: The oven helps prevent the chicken from drying out excessively, especially when using techniques like adding a little broth or covering it with foil.
- Even Heating: Unlike a microwave, the oven provides more uniform heat distribution, reducing the risk of cold spots.
- Flavor Preservation: The oven allows the original flavors of the chicken to remain intact, rather than being altered by the intense heat of a microwave.
- Versatility: You can reheat various types of chicken – fried, roasted, grilled – using this method with good results.
The Process: Step-by-Step Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside.
- Prepare the chicken. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator approximately 15-20 minutes before reheating to allow it to come closer to room temperature. This helps with more even heating.
- Add Moisture (Optional): Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the dish to create steam and help prevent drying.
- Cover (Recommended): Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps trap moisture and prevent the chicken from burning.
- Reheat. Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: After 15 minutes, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding bone.
- Continue Reheating: If the internal temperature is below 165°F (74°C), continue reheating in 5-minute increments, checking the temperature each time.
- Remove and Rest: Once the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist product.
What To Do With Different Chicken Pieces
The amount of time it takes to reheat chicken can differ considerably depending on the piece of chicken. Below is a general breakdown.
| Chicken Piece | Estimated Reheating Time (Minutes) | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 15-20 | The larger and thicker the breast, the longer it will take. Adding moisture and covering with foil is crucial. |
| Chicken Thigh | 18-22 | Thighs generally retain moisture better than breasts. Bone-in thighs may require slightly longer reheating times. |
| Chicken Wing | 12-15 | Wings are smaller and heat up quickly. Be careful not to overheat and dry them out. |
| Whole Roasted Chicken | 25-35 | Cover tightly with foil. Adding moisture to the bottom of the dish is essential. Check internal temperature in multiple spots. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overheating: Reheating the chicken for too long will result in a dry and unappetizing product.
- Underheating: Failing to heat the chicken to a safe internal temperature (165°F) can lead to foodborne illness.
- Skipping the Moisture: Not adding moisture can cause the chicken to dry out.
- Not Using a Thermometer: Relying on visual cues alone is not sufficient to determine if the chicken is properly heated. Always use a meat thermometer.
- Reheating Frozen Chicken: Reheating directly from frozen is not recommended. Thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator before reheating for best results and safety.
How To Improve The Taste
- Adding lemon juice to the broth.
- Sprinkling with herbs.
- Finishing with a light coating of BBQ sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to reheat chicken in the oven more than once?
It’s generally not recommended to reheat cooked chicken more than once. Each reheating cycle increases the risk of bacterial growth, even if the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. It’s best to only reheat the amount you plan to consume at that time.
2. Can I reheat fried chicken in the oven without it becoming soggy?
Yes, but you need to take extra steps to ensure it stays crispy. Place the fried chicken on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, helping to maintain its crispiness. Reheat uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until heated through. This allows moisture to evaporate, rather than being trapped and creating a soggy texture.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully reheated?
The only reliable way to know if the chicken is fully reheated is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding bone. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.
4. Can I reheat chicken from frozen in the oven?
While technically possible, reheating chicken from frozen is not recommended due to uneven heating and increased risk of bacterial growth. If you must reheat frozen chicken, ensure it’s thawed completely in the refrigerator first. This may take a day or two depending on the size of the piece. Reheating from frozen will also considerably affect the final quality.
5. What if my chicken starts to burn on the outside before it’s heated through?
If the chicken starts to burn on the outside before it’s heated through, lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue reheating until it reaches the correct internal temperature. You can also add a layer of foil over the top to protect it from further burning.
6. How long can I store cooked chicken in the refrigerator before reheating it?
Cooked chicken should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and consumed within 3-4 days for optimal safety and quality. After that, the risk of bacterial growth increases significantly.
7. Should I add any seasonings or sauces before reheating the chicken?
Adding seasonings or sauces before reheating can enhance the flavor of the chicken. However, be mindful of the sodium content, as reheating can concentrate the flavors. If the original sauce has a high sugar content, it will burn.
8. Can I use the same method for reheating other types of poultry, like turkey or duck?
Yes, the same general method can be used for reheating other types of poultry. However, adjust the reheating time based on the size and thickness of the poultry piece. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level (165°F/74°C for poultry).
9. What’s the best type of dish to use for reheating chicken in the oven?
An oven-safe dish, such as a glass, ceramic, or metal baking dish, is suitable for reheating chicken. Avoid using plastic containers, as they may melt or leach chemicals into the food at high temperatures.
10. How can I prevent my reheated chicken from tasting like leftovers?
To prevent reheated chicken from tasting like leftovers, add fresh herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating. Serving it with a fresh side dish can also help to mask any leftover flavors.
11. Will reheating affect the nutritional value of the chicken?
Reheating may cause a slight decrease in some nutrients, particularly water-soluble vitamins. However, the overall nutritional value of the chicken remains relatively stable. The most important thing is to reheat it safely and enjoy it.
12. What is the impact of microwave reheating on the texture and taste of chicken compared to oven reheating?
Microwave reheating can often lead to a dryer, tougher texture due to its rapid and uneven heating process. The oven, with its more gradual and consistent heat distribution, helps retain moisture and flavor, resulting in a more palatable outcome. Oven-reheated chicken more closely resembles freshly cooked chicken in terms of texture and taste.