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How do you reheat leftover chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Chicken tenders are a family favorite for many, but figuring out the best way to reheat leftover chicken tenders can be tricky. Using an air fryer is one of the easiest and quickest methods. Air frying leftover chicken tenders makes them come out crispy and delicious, almost like they are fresh again. Follow these simple steps for reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer.

Can You Reheat Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer?

Yes, an air fryer is a great appliance for reheating leftover chicken tenders. The hot air circulates around the food quickly and evenly, reheating the tenders while also recrisping the outside. An air fryer gives similar results to deep frying without having to use all of that oil.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

  • Gives chicken tenders a crispy exterior
  • Heats food quickly and evenly
  • Does not make tenders rubbery or soggy
  • Adds little to no extra oil or fat
  • Simple to use

Air fryers are able to reheat fried foods better than a microwave or oven can. The high heat and circulating air mimic deep frying results. Your leftover chicken tenders will come out of the air fryer hot, juicy and crispy.

How to Reheat Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer

Follow these easy steps for reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer:

1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by taking the leftover chicken tenders out of the refrigerator and allowing them to come closer to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly. Pat any excess moisture off the tenders with a paper towel.

2. Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F. Air fryer temperatures typically range from 360°F to 400°F for reheating fried foods like chicken tenders.

3. Arrange Tenders in Fryer Basket

Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Try not to overcrowd them. Work in batches for larger amounts of chicken tenders. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

4. Reheat for 5-7 Minutes

Reheat the chicken tenders at 370°F for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The reheating time depends on the amount and size of the tenders. Less time is needed for smaller pieces or smaller batches.

5. Check Tenders

After 5 to 7 minutes, open the air fryer and check the tenders. They should be hot throughout with a crispy exterior. If needed, reheat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.

6. Remove and Serve

Carefully remove the hot chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

Follow these tips when reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer:

  • Let tenders sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before air frying for more even heating.
  • Use a lower heat around 370°F to avoid burning the exterior before the interior is heated through.
  • Flip tenders halfway during air frying to promote even browning.
  • Work in smaller batches to prevent crowding and uneven cooking.
  • Brush tenders lightly with oil before air frying if they seem dried out.
  • Adjust cook times based on the amount and size of the chicken tenders.

How Long Do Leftover Chicken Tenders Last?

Properly stored leftover chicken tenders will typically last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store them in a covered container within 2 hours of cooking. The USDA recommends consuming cooked poultry within 3 to 4 days for maximum safety and quality.

You can also freeze leftover chicken tenders for longer term storage. Place tightly sealed tenders in freezer bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible. Frozen chicken tenders will last for 2 to 3 months in the freezer before quality starts to diminish.

Make sure leftover chicken tenders are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or above before serving to kill any potential bacteria. An air fryer, oven, or microwave can all be used to fully and safely reheat frozen or refrigerated chicken tenders.

Common Questions About Reheating Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer

Can you reheat chicken tenders from frozen in an air fryer?

Yes, an air fryer can be used to reheat frozen chicken tenders. Add a couple extra minutes to the cook time. Frozen tenders may need 7 to 10 minutes in an air fryer at 370°F, flipping halfway.

Do the chicken tenders need oil before air frying?

You do not necessarily need to brush the tenders with oil before air frying. However, a light coating of oil can help promote browning and crisping. Use just a teaspoon or less of oil per batch.

What temperature should you reheat chicken tenders at in an air fryer?

An air fryer temperature of around 370°F is ideal for reheating chicken tenders. Temperatures between 360°F and 380°F will work well. Higher heat risks burning the exterior before the center is warmed.

Do you flip chicken tenders when reheating in an air fryer?

It’s recommended to flip chicken tenders about halfway during the reheating process in an air fryer. This allows both sides to evenly reheat and crisp up. If not flipped, one side may end up much darker than the other.

How long does it take to reheat 6 chicken tenders in an air fryer?

For 6 average sized chicken tenders, reheating at 370°F in an air fryer will take about 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway. Additional time may be needed for larger or thicker tenders. Check for doneness before removing.

Best Practices for Reheating Chicken in an Air Fryer

Here is a quick summary of the best practices for safely reheating leftover chicken tenders in an air fryer:

Steps Tips
– Let chicken sit out for 10-15 mins – Brush lightly with oil if dried out
– Preheat air fryer to 370°F – Work in batches to avoid crowding
– Place tenders in single layer – Flip halfway through cooking
– Cook 5-7 mins, flipping halfway – Adjust time based on amount
– Check internal temp (165°F+) – Serve immediately

Following proper food safety guidelines and using the right techniques will result in hot, delicious leftover chicken tenders every time you use your air fryer!

Conclusion

Air frying is one of the quickest and easiest ways to reheat leftover chicken tenders. The high heat helps recrisp the outside of the tenders while thoroughly warming the inside. Allow tenders to come closer to room temp before air frying, preheat fryer to around 370°F, work in batches, flip halfway, and check internal temperature before serving. Air fried chicken tenders make for amazing leftovers!