If you’ve ever wondered how to bring leftover chicken tenders back to life, learning how to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer is the ultimate game-changer. Unlike microwaves that leave them soggy or ovens that dry them out, the air fryer delivers crispy, juicy tenders that taste just as good as when they were freshly made. Whether you’re dealing with homemade leftovers or store-bought tenders, this method is quick, easy, and guarantees perfect results every time. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer and enjoy a delicious lunch without the hassle.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer to Reheat Chicken Tenders
Quick and Efficient Reheating
One of the biggest perks of learning how to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer is the speed. Unlike ovens that need time to preheat, an air fryer gets the job done in just a few minutes. Typically, you can have perfectly reheated chicken tenders in 5-7 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or snack. Plus, the compact size of an air fryer means less energy consumption compared to using a full-sized oven.
Crispy Exterior, Juicy Interior
The real magic of using an air fryer lies in its ability to maintain the crispy exterior of your chicken tenders while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The hot, circulating air ensures even cooking, reviving the original texture that microwaves and ovens often fail to deliver. Whether your tenders are breaded or plain, when you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, they come out golden and crunchy every time.
Healthier Than Frying or Microwaving
Another benefit of using an air fryer to reheat chicken tenders is that it’s a healthier option. You don’t need to add extra oil, unlike traditional frying methods. Plus, the air fryer drains excess oil from the tenders, reducing overall fat content. Compared to microwaving, which can sometimes leave food greasy, air frying keeps things light while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
No Soggy Results
We’ve all experienced the disappointment of soggy reheated chicken from the microwave. When you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, you avoid this common issue entirely. The air fryer’s dry heat removes excess moisture from the surface of the chicken, ensuring that the breading stays crispy and the inside doesn’t turn rubbery.
Great for Reheating Both Fresh and Frozen Tenders
Whether you have homemade leftovers or store-bought frozen tenders, the air fryer is versatile enough to handle both. You can reheat frozen chicken tenders in air fryer without thawing them first, saving you even more time. The result? Crispy, delicious chicken that tastes fresh out of the fryer.
With these benefits, it’s easy to see why the air fryer is the go-to method for reviving leftover chicken tenders.
How to Reheat Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer?
Preheat Your Air Fryer
To get the best results when you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, always start by preheating the appliance. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps restore that crispy exterior we all love.
Arrange Chicken Tenders in a Single Layer
Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer. Avoid stacking them, as this can lead to uneven reheating. If you have a lot of tenders to reheat, it’s better to do them in batches. This step is crucial to ensure every tender comes out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Reheat at the Right Temperature
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. Reheating at this temperature allows the tenders to warm through without drying out. If you like your tenders extra crispy, you can increase the temperature slightly to 375°F (190°C) but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Adjust the Reheating Time
Reheating time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken tenders. Typically, it takes about 5-7 minutes to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer. Check them halfway through the cooking time and flip them to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- For thinner tenders: Check after 4 minutes.
- For thicker tenders: They might need up to 8 minutes.
Use a food thermometer if you’re unsure—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 5: Check for Crispiness
Once the reheating time is up, check the tenders for crispiness. If they’re not as crunchy as you’d like, add another 1-2 minutes. Just be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the meat.
Optional: Spritz with Oil for Extra Crispiness
If you want that just-fried feel, lightly spritz the chicken tenders with cooking spray or a small amount of oil before reheating. This isn’t necessary, but it can enhance the crispiness, especially for breaded tenders.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your air-fried chicken tenders are hot and crispy, remove them from the basket and let them rest for a minute. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, sides, or incorporate them into wraps and salads for a delicious, easy lunch.
By following these simple steps, you’ll get perfectly reheated chicken tenders every time.
If you love using up leftovers creatively, check out these Recipes for Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for more inspiration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Reheat Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer
Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
One of the most common mistakes people make when they reheat chicken tenders in air fryer is overcrowding the basket. When tenders are stacked or too close together, the hot air can’t circulate properly, leading to uneven heating and soggy spots. To get that perfect crispy texture, always arrange your chicken tenders in a single layer. If you’re reheating a large batch, it’s better to do it in smaller rounds.
Skipping the Preheat Step
Many people skip preheating their air fryer, thinking it’s unnecessary. However, failing to preheat can lead to uneven reheating and a less crispy exterior. When you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, preheating to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes ensures the tenders start crisping up as soon as they hit the basket.
Reheating at the Wrong Temperature
Setting your air fryer to the wrong temperature is another common pitfall. If the heat is too high, the outside of the tenders can burn before the inside is fully heated. If it’s too low, you risk ending up with soggy chicken. The sweet spot is usually 350°F (175°C), which allows the chicken to warm through evenly while staying crispy.
Not Flipping the Chicken Tenders
When you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, it’s important to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides of the tenders get evenly crispy. Forgetting this step might leave one side crunchy while the other remains soft or undercooked.
Reheating for Too Long
While it might be tempting to leave the tenders in longer for extra crispiness, overcooking can dry them out and make them tough. Always check the tenders after 5-7 minutes to avoid this mistake. If they’re not quite done, add an extra minute or two, but no more.
Forgetting to Check Internal Temperature
Safety first! When you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, always make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid undercooking, which is especially important if you’re reheating frozen tenders.
Using Too Much or Too Little Oil
While you don’t need to drown your chicken tenders in oil, a light spritz of cooking spray can help restore crispiness, especially for breaded tenders. On the other hand, using too much oil can make the tenders greasy instead of crispy. Aim for a balanced approach a light mist is all you need.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll master the art of reheating chicken tenders in your air fryer, ensuring they come out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.
Looking for more air fryer ideas?
Frequently Asked Questions About Reheating Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer
What Temperature Should I Use to Reheat Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer?
For the best results, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) when you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer. This temperature allows the tenders to heat evenly without burning the outside or drying out the inside. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can bump it up slightly to 375°F (190°C) but be sure to monitor them closely.
How Long Does It Take to Reheat Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer?
Typically, it takes about 5-7 minutes to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer. Thinner tenders may only need 4-5 minutes, while thicker ones could take up to 8 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re heated through.
Can I Reheat Frozen Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer?
Yes! You can easily reheat frozen chicken tenders in air fryer without thawing them first. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness and add an extra minute if needed. This method keeps them crispy on the outside and tender inside.
How Do I Keep Chicken Tenders from Drying Out in the Air Fryer?
To prevent dryness when you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer, follow these tips:
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking by checking the tenders after 5 minutes.
- Lightly spritz with oil to retain moisture and enhance crispiness.
- Flip the tenders halfway through to ensure both sides stay juicy.
Can I Add Extra Seasoning When Reheating Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! If you want to refresh the flavor, sprinkle some extra seasoning or spices before you reheat chicken tenders in air fryer. For example, add a dash of paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to give your tenders a flavor boost.
Are Air-Fried Reheated Chicken Tenders Healthier Than Other Methods?
Yes, reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer is generally healthier than using a microwave or deep fryer. The air fryer requires little to no oil, reducing the fat content while still achieving a crispy texture. It’s also faster and more efficient than reheating in an oven, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters.
Conclusion
When it comes to reviving leftover chicken tenders, nothing beats the air fryer. Learning how to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer guarantees crispy, juicy results that taste just as good as freshly cooked. Unlike microwaves that leave tenders soggy or ovens that take forever, the air fryer offers the perfect balance of speed and quality. Whether you’re reheating homemade tenders, store-bought, or even frozen ones, this method delivers consistent, delicious results every time. So, next time you’ve got leftovers, skip the microwave and give the air fryer a try you’ll never look back!