Reheating fried chicken sandwiches in the microwave can seem tricky. The goal is to heat the sandwich thoroughly without making the bun soggy or the chicken rubbery. With some simple tips, you can quickly reheat fried chicken sandwiches and restore that hot, crispy, freshly-fried taste.
Can you microwave fried chicken sandwiches?
Yes, you can microwave fried chicken sandwiches to reheat them. The microwave provides a quick and convenient way to heat a fried chicken sandwich without overcooking it. With the right technique, the microwave can produce a fried chicken sandwich almost as good as fresh.
How long do you microwave a fried chicken sandwich?
The optimal microwave time for a fried chicken sandwich is 30 seconds to 1 minute at 50% power. This short burst of lower-powered microwaving prevents the bun from getting soggy while thoroughly heating the chicken. Check the temperature after 30 seconds, and continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until heated through. For a cold sandwich straight from the fridge, lean toward a full minute. For a sandwich at room temp, 30 seconds should suffice.
Microwave fried chicken sandwich in steps
Follow these steps when reheating a fried chicken sandwich in the microwave:
- Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave at 50% power for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Allow the sandwich to rest for 1 minute after microwaving to let the heat distribute evenly.
- Enjoy your hot, crispy fried chicken sandwich!
Tips for the best results
Here are some top tips to ensure your microwaved fried chicken sandwich tastes great:
- Use a paper towel or paper plate – This prevents steam from sogging the bun.
- Wrap in a dry paper towel – The towel absorbs excess moisture for a crisper bun exterior.
- Elevate on a microwave-safe rack – This allows steam to escape from the bottom bun.
- Microwave open-faced -Microwaving with the top bun off prevents trapping steam.
- Apply pressure – Place a flat plate or pan on the sandwich while microwaving to help crisp the bun.
Why does fried chicken get rubbery in the microwave?
Fried chicken can become rubbery in the microwave when overheated. This occurs because the low-moisture environment of the microwave can cause the proteins in chicken to get too hot and coagulate, taking on a tough, rubbery texture. Using lower power and reheating just until hot prevents this. Resting the reheated chicken also allows moisture to redistribute evenly.
How to keep fried chicken crispy in the microwave
It can be tricky getting fried chicken skin to stay crispy in the microwave, but these tips help:
- Use a paper towel to absorb moisture
- Elevate on a rack to allow air flow
- Microwave open-faced
- Wrap in foil and crispy 2-3 minutes after microwaving
- Brush on a thin layer of oil before microwaving
The key is limiting the food’s contact with moisture during reheating. Aim to just heat through and then use additional techniques like broiling or air frying to recrisp the skin after.
Best practices for microwaving meats and bread
To microwave meats and bread products like fried chicken sandwiches most effectively:
- Use lower power around 50%
- Heat in short bursts, checking frequently
- Allow resting time after microwaving
- Keep items elevated and uncovered
- Wrap breads in dry paper towels
- Use indirect heat like a microwave-safe rack
- Cook meats close to done before microwaving
Following these general guidelines prevents meats and breads from drying out or becoming rubbery in the microwave.
How to store and reheat leftover fried chicken sandwiches
To best store and reheat leftover fried chicken sandwiches:
- Let the sandwich cool completely after initially cooking
- Disassemble the sandwich and store the buns and chicken filling separately
- Wrap the chicken filling tightly in plastic wrap or foil
- Store buns at room temp up to 2 days or freeze
- Refrigerate chicken for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage
- Reheat chicken in the microwave until hot, around 1 minute
- Crisp bun briefly in oven at 300°F if needed
- Assemble reheated sandwich with desired toppings
Proper storage and reheating helps maximize the sandwich’s crispy and crunchy textures.
Can you reheat fried chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, an air fryer is a great way to reheat fried chicken sandwiches and other fried foods. To use an air fryer:
- Disassemble the sandwich and place chicken in air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until hot and crispy.
- You can also place the open bun halves cut-side down to air fry for 1-2 minutes to recrisp.
- Assemble heated sandwich ingredients and enjoy!
The circulating hot air of an air fryer mimics deep frying for crispy results without the oil.
Can you bake fried chicken sandwiches to reheat?
Baking is another excellent reheating method for fried chicken sandwiches. To bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet.
- Bake 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- For crispier breading, bake longer at a lower 300°F.
- Broil 2-3 minutes after baking to crisp the bun tops and chicken skin.
The dry environment of the oven helps revive the sandwich’s crunchy textures. Just avoid overbaking, which can dry out the bun.
Tips for the best homemade fried chicken sandwich
Taking your homemade fried chicken sandwiches to the next level:
- Use good quality chicken breast or thigh fillets for juicy meat
- Brine chicken for added moisture and flavor
- Double dredge chicken in flour mixture for extra crunchy coating
- Fry chicken in peanut oil for optimal crispiness
- Toast brioche or potato buns for a sturdy base
- Brush bun with spicy mayo or honey butter
- Include crunchy coleslaw or pickles for texture
Using high-quality ingredients and nailing the cooking techniques results in next-level texture and taste.
Conclusion
The microwave provides a quick and convenient way to reheat fried chicken sandwiches without overdrying. Use lower power, heat in short bursts, and allow sandwiches to rest after microwaving for the best results. Employing tricks like paper towels, elevated racks, and open-faced microwaving helps retain crispy textures. Air frying or baking can also recrisp the crust after microwaving. With the proper reheating methods, you can enjoy hot fried chicken sandwiches from your kitchen that taste nearly as good as fresh.