Life hacks are especially necessary when it comes to our meals. Why be saddled with a long meal prep time when there is an easier way that guarantees a scrumptious outcome? As a mum and entrepreneur, I am constantly on the lookout for easier and faster ways to prepare meals for my family and this led to one of my all-time favorite discoveries, how to reheat chicken breast in the microwave.
There are other ways to reheat chicken breast, but using the microwave is for people like me who do not have a lot of time on their hands and still want to have something tasty.
When the chicken breast is reheated just right in the microwave, it is a five-star experience you would repeat again and again. I use the phrase just right because caution must be applied when microwaving chicken to avoid it getting dry and rubbery.
In this article, I share how to reheat chicken breast in the microwave, how long it takes to reheat chicken breast, and tips to remember while reheating.
So, let’s get into it.
Can you reheat chicken breast in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat chicken breast in the microwave. However, make sure to place it on a microwave-safe plate, not on aluminum or plastic containers. Next, cover the plate with a microwaveable lid or wrap it with a moist paper towel. Then reheat for about 1 and a half minutes.
Another thing to note about reheating chicken breast in the microwave is the temperature, you must be sure to monitor the time and temperature carefully.
Some people have concluded that chicken breasts cannot be microwaved because they ended up with dry and chewy chicken. But when reheated at the right temperature and properly monitored, the result is edible and delicious.
Is it safe to reheat chicken breast in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat chicken breast in the microwave if it was stored properly. Chicken that is stored in the fridge at 40°F or below can be reheated. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), chicken is a perishable food that must be frozen or refrigerated within two hours after cooking in order to be safe to reheat.
Furthermore, for health and safety reasons you can only reheat your chicken once and it must be consumed in one sitting.
How do you reheat chicken breast in the microwave?
If you want to reheat chicken breast that is at room temperature, it is best to do so in a microwave. First, make sure the chicken breast has enough time to defrost. Next, place the chicken breast on a microwavable plate and wrap it with a damp paper towel.
Add a smidgen of water over the top of the chicken and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chicken breast. Not only does this combination of water and olive oil help keep the chicken moist, but it also enhances its flavor. You could also garnish your chicken breast platter with vegetables before reheating in the microwave.
Your chicken breasts can be put as it is into the microwave, or you could cut them into smaller pieces to ensure the heat gets into every part. Also do not overcrowd your plate; leave enough space between each piece.
The appropriate internal temperature for reheated chicken breast is 74 °C or 165 °F. A cooking thermometer is ideal because you would be able to gauge the temperature accurately to avoid chicken breast getting overcooked.
Timing is everything when it comes to reheating chicken breast in the microwave, which takes us to our next point.
How long do you reheat chicken breast in the microwave?
If you want to reheat chicken breast in the microwave, it will take about 2 minutes per pound. If you keep it in the microwave for too long, the chicken will become dry and rubbery. It is also important to remember that the weight and thickness of the chicken breast, as well as the wattage of your microwave, affect how long it takes to reheat.
If it is a small amount (for a single serving), you can reheat for 1.5 minutes, using the normal setting of your microwave, which is usually 1000 watts. But if the chicken breast is of a larger amount then the estimated time is between 2 to 3 minutes on high heat.
Even though the sizes may differ, once the halfway point is reached, either for the smaller sized chicken breast or larger sized chicken breast, carefully flip the chicken over so both sides can be heated evenly.
If you do not have a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken breast, you can use your fingers or have a little sample taste test to know if it is reheated all the way through. If you will be doing the latter, be aware that it can be hot therefore take necessary precautions so you do not get burned.
Tips to remember when reheating chicken breast in the microwave
- Below are some helpful tips to bear in mind when reheating chicken breast in the microwave:
- Cut chicken breast into smaller pieces; this makes reheating much easier.
- Sprinkle water and drizzle olive oil on the chicken breast before reheating. This will keep the chicken moist, retaining its juiciness and flavor.
- Place chicken breast on a microwaveable plate. Do not use aluminum or regular plastic containers.
- Flip the chicken breast at intervals to ensure it is reheated evenly.
- Do not flip the chicken breast with your hands; instead, use a pair of tongs.
- Reheated chicken breast can be consumed when the internal temperature is 165°F. Use a cooking thermometer to help you gauge accurately.
Wrapping up
Reheating chicken breast in the microwave is not only the easiest way but it is also the quickest. Remember to use microwavable plates, and stick to the 2 minute time frame to avoid chicken breast drying out. Follow through with this guide and you are guaranteed a tasty outcome for your meal. Give it a go.
FAQ
What are some tips for safely storing leftover chicken?
When storing leftover chicken, make sure to put it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. Additionally, store cooked and raw chicken separately so as not to cross-contaminate them. Leftover cooked chicken should be consumed within three days after cooking.
Can you fry leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can fry leftovers rotisserie chickens by cutting it into pieces and coating them with breadcrumbs or flour prior to frying them in oil. Make sure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F when fully cooked by using a meat thermometer.
How long should you cook frozen skinless chicken breast in the oven?
A: The amount of time needed to cook frozen skinless chicken breasts will depend on their size and shape; however, generally speaking, they should take 20-30 minutes at 375°F when placed on an oven safe dish such as glass or ceramic baking dishes that have been lightly coated with cooking spray or oil. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How do I cook chicken in the microwave?
To cook chicken in the microwave, start by placing your raw chicken pieces on a microwave safe plate and covering it with plastic wrap. Pierce the plastic wrap a few times to allow steam to escape. Then, set your microwave to high power and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, stick a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure it’s cooked thoroughly. If not, keep cooking for additional 30 second intervals until done.
Can you reheat cooked chicken in the microwave?
Yes, you can safely reheat cooked chicken breast as long as you take proper precautions while doing so. Start by transferring it onto an oven-safe dish or plate and cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Before microwaving, pierce small holes in both materials to allow steam to escape throughout the process. Finally, heat on high power for 1 minute increments until warm throughout or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I store leftover cooked chicken?
Yes! Storing leftover chicken is very easy and convenient; just be sure to refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking time (1 hour if over 90°F/32°C) and consume within 3-4 days from initial cooking time for optimal freshness. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months if desired for future enjoyment!
How can I reheat a rotisserie chicken in the microwave?
To reheat a rotisserie chicken in the microwave, first transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat on medium heat for about two minutes per side, or until cooked through. Make sure to use a hot dish to avoid food poisoning and keep your rotisserie chicken moist. Finally, let the chicken rest before serving.
What is the best way to reheat leftover pan juices from my roasted chicken?
The best way to reheat leftover pan juices from a roasted chicken is by transferring them into a saucepan, adding some hot sauce or dipping sauce if desired, and heating over medium heat until slightly bubbling. Stir occasionally as you heat the liquids to ensure an even temperature throughout the juice.
Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven for my store bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use an air fryer instead of an oven for your store bought rotisserie chicken! Put your whole bird in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, depending on size and desired crispiness. For wings, set your air fryer temperature at 375°F and cook 6-8 minutes per side until crispy. Be sure to monitor closely so that you don’t overcook your meat!
How long does it take to reheat cooked chicken in a microwave?
A: Reheating cooked chicken in a microwave typically takes 1-2 minutes per every 4 ounces of chicken. Be sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature after reheating to ensure it is at least 165°F.
How do you reheat chicken breast in an oven?
A: To reheat a chicken breast in an oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the frozen or thawed chicken into an oven-safe container with some liquid such as broth or water. Cover the container with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Check the internal temperature of your food before consuming it; it should be at least 165°F.
What is the best way to reheat roast chicken in a microwave?
The best way to reheat roast chicken in a microwave is by placing it on a plate and covering loosely with paper towels or other light coverings, then microwaving on medium power for 2 minutes per each 4 ounces of meat. Check that all areas are hot by using a thermometer; once fully heated, remove from heat and enjoy!
How can I reheat chicken without drying it out?
To avoid drying out your chicken when reheating, use lower temperatures and shorter cooking times than baking or roasting would usually require. For example, microwaving on medium power instead of high will ensure that your food heats gradually without becoming dry or tough. Additionally, adding moisture such as broth when heating can help keep your food tender and moist while still achieving thorough heating throughout.