Chicken tenders are a popular food item that can be enjoyed hot and fresh or reheated later. When reheating chicken tenders, it is important to use the proper temperature and method to ensure food safety and optimal taste and texture. This article will provide tips on the best way to reheat chicken tenders.
What is the proper temperature for reheating chicken tenders?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), all poultry products, including chicken tenders, should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This high temperature helps kill any bacteria that may have grown on the food during storage.
When you reheat chicken tenders, use a food thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading. Reheating to this proper temperature will help prevent foodborne illness.
Tips for reheating chicken tenders
Here are some tips to follow for safely reheating chicken tenders to 165°F:
- Use the oven or microwave – The oven or microwave are preferred methods for evenly reheating chicken tenders to the proper internal temperature. Chicken can be placed on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Microwave in short bursts – If using the microwave, heat the tenders in short 30 second bursts, checking the temperature in between, to prevent overcooking.
- Use a sauce or broth – Adding a sauce, broth, or even water to the chicken can help prevent drying out when reheating.
- Ensure even heating – Turn or stir the chicken halfway through reheating to promote even heating.
- Allow standing time – After reheating, allow the chicken to stand for a few minutes before serving so the temperature can equilibrate.
What temperature should you reheat chicken tenders to?
The USDA recommends reheating chicken tenders to an internal temperature of 165°F. Checking the internal temperature with a food thermometer is the only reliable way to ensure chicken reaches a high enough temperature to kill any harmful bacteria present.
How do you reheat chicken tenders in the oven?
Reheating chicken tenders in the oven is simple:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake tenders for 15-20 minutes until heated through to 165°F internally.
- Flip tenders halfway through baking.
- Allow to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Baking gives chicken tenders a nice crispy exterior. Monitor temperature and bake time to prevent drying out.
How long does it take to reheat chicken tenders in the oven?
It typically takes 15-20 minutes to reheat chicken tenders in a 350°F oven. However, reheating time can vary depending on:
- Amount and size of chicken tenders – The more chicken, the longer it will take.
- Oven temperature – Higher heat reheats faster.
- If frozen or refrigerated – Frozen takes longer.
- Desired crispness – Bake longer for crispier skin.
The most reliable way to check doneness is to use an instant-read thermometer and reheat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Oven Reheating Time Guidelines
| Amount | Oven Temp | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 lb tenders | 350°F | 15-20 |
| 2 lbs tenders | 350°F | 20-25 |
How do you reheat chicken tenders in the microwave?
To reheat chicken tenders in the microwave:
- Place chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on HIGH in 30 second intervals until heated to 165°F.
- Flip tenders and rearrange halfway through heating.
- Allow to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
The microwave can quickly overcook chicken. Use short intervals and check temperature to prevent drying out.
How long does it take to reheat chicken tenders in the microwave?
Microwave reheating time for chicken tenders can vary based on:
- Amount of chicken
- Power of the microwave
- If frozen or refrigerated
For 1 pound of chicken tenders, the typical microwave reheating time is 2-4 minutes using 30 second intervals on HIGH power. Always check internal temperature with a thermometer for food safety.
Microwave Reheating Guidelines
| Amount | Power Level | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 lb tenders | HIGH | 2-4 minutes |
| 2 lbs tenders | HIGH | 4-6 minutes |
How do you reheat chicken tenders without drying them out?
To reheat chicken tenders without drying them out:
- Use the oven or microwave for even heating.
- Microwave in short 30 second increments.
- Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to add moisture.
- Use an oven-safe dish and add 1-2 tablespoons of water before baking.
- Coat tenders in a sauce like barbecue, buffalo, or ranch before reheating.
- Stir or flip chicken halfway through reheating.
- Allow chicken to rest after reheating so moisture redistributes.
Monitoring temperature and not overheating the chicken is the best way to maintain juiciness and prevent dry, overcooked meat when reheating.
What is the best way to reheat chicken tenders?
The best practices for reheating chicken tenders include:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F on a sheet pan until 165°F internal temperature.
- Microwave: Heat tenders on HIGH in 30 second increments until hot, checking internal temperature.
- On stovetop: Place in skillet with small amount of oil or broth over medium heat until heated through.
- In air fryer: Set air fryer to 370°F and cook about 5 minutes until crispy.
The oven and microwave allow the most control for evenly reheating chicken without drying it out. Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature for food safety.
Can you reheat chicken tenders more than once?
It is not recommended to reheat chicken tenders more than once. Reheating chicken tends to dry out the meat, and reheating again can make it even more dried out and rubbery.
Additionally, the more times chicken is reheated, the higher the risk for bacterial growth. Leftover chicken should be reheated only once, and then any remaining chicken should be discarded.
For food safety and quality, cook fresh chicken tenders instead of trying to reheat leftovers multiple times. Only reheat the amount that will be consumed in one sitting.
Conclusion
Properly reheating leftover chicken tenders is important for food safety. Always reheat chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F, measured with a food thermometer. The oven or microwave provide the best reheating methods to ensure even heating. Prevent drying out the chicken by using short microwave intervals, stirring, and keeping reheating time brief. Only reheat chicken once, and discard any remaining portions after one reheating. Following these tips will result in safe, delicious reheated chicken tenders.