How to Reheat Chicken Tenders (4 Different Ways): This is the ultimate guide to reheating chicken tenders in the air fryer!

Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer
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Whether you have leftover tenders from last night’s dinner or want to enjoy some crispy goodness again, this method will ensure your chicken tenders are perfectly juicy and flavorful. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have tender, crispy chicken ready to enjoy. Say goodbye to soggy leftovers and hello to deliciously reheated chicken tenders, courtesy of your trusty air fryer!

Indulging in flavorful chicken tenders is always a delight, especially for the kids! Our top picks are the air-fried Doritos-crusted chicken Tenders and Air-Fried Chicken Fingers recipes.

If you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container is the perfect solution to prevent unnecessary food waste and enjoy them just as fresh the next day.

Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

Can You Reheat Chicken Tenders?

Yes! Reheating chicken tenders can restore their crispy texture. Below are the best methods for reheating leftover chicken tenders.

4 Reheating Methods for Tasty Chicken Tenders

Here’s how you can reheat your chicken tenders for the best results. Choose the best way to cook your chicken leftovers!

Reheating Chicken Tenders In Oven

Reheating chicken tenders in the oven is a simple and effective way to restore their crispy exterior while heating them evenly throughout.

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
  • Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving space between each piece.
  • Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the chicken tenders in the oven.
  • Heat the tenders for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy. For best results, check frequently during the reheating process. 
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Once heated, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

Reheating Chicken Tenders In Toaster Oven

Reheating chicken tenders in a toaster oven or mini convection oven is a quick and convenient method that helps retain their crispy texture.

  • Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Arrange the chicken pieces on the toaster oven tray, ensuring they are spaced apart.
  • Once the toaster oven is preheated, place the tray with the chicken tenders inside.
  • Heat the chicken tenders for about 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders to ensure they have reached at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Once heated, carefully remove the tray from the toaster oven and serve your delicious reheated chicken tenders.

Reheating Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

Reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer is a fantastic way to revive their crispy exterior and juicy interior without making them soggy! In my opinion, this is the best method, and it’s perfect for not heating up the entire house!

  • Preheat your air fryer temperature to 350°F, 175 degrees C., for a few minutes. 
  • Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
  • Set the cooking time for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process until they are heated and crispy.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders to ensure they have reached at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Once heated, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy your crispy and delicious reheated chicken tenders!
Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

Reheating Chicken Tenders In Microwave

Reheating chicken tenders in the microwave is quick and convenient, but it can sometimes result in a loss of crispiness. However, with the right technique, you can still achieve satisfactory results.

  • Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring they do not overlap.
  • Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the chicken tenders from drying out.
  • Microwave the chicken tenders on high power for 30-60 seconds, depending on the quantity and thickness of the tenders.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders to ensure they have reached at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Once heated through, remove the chicken tenders from the microwave and let them rest for a minute before serving. Enjoy your reheated chicken tenders!
Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

​Pro Tips For Reheating Chicken Tenders

  • Use a baking rack: When reheating chicken tenders in the oven or toaster oven, place them on a baking rack or wire rack instead of directly on a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate the tenders, resulting in a crispier texture.
  • Monitor closely: Whether you’re reheating in the oven, toaster oven, air fryer, or microwave, monitor the tenders closely to prevent overcooking and drying.
  • Opt for low heat: If using a microwave, reheat the chicken tenders on medium power to avoid drying them out.
  • Add moisture: To help retain moisture during reheating, place a small water dish alongside the chicken tenders in the microwave or toaster oven. You can also brush the chicken pieces with oil or spray olive oil. 
  • Sauce on the side: If serving with sauce, consider warming it separately and drizzling it over the reheated chicken tenders just before serving to maintain their crispy coating.
Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

Faq’s

Can you reheat chicken tenders multiple times? Reheating chicken tenders once is generally safe, but repeatedly reheating them increases the risk of bacterial contamination. It’s best to reheat only what you plan to consume immediately.  

Can I reheat chicken tenders in the microwave oven? Yes, you can reheat chicken tenders in the microwave, but they may lose some crispiness compared to other methods. Choose the best reheating method, and your preferred method. 

Should I thaw frozen chicken tenders before reheating? For best results, thaw frozen chicken tenderloins in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also reheat them from frozen, but the cooking time may be longer.

How To Store Leftover Chicken Tenders: Let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. The chicken leftovers will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. 

How can I prevent chicken tenders from becoming dry when reheating? To prevent chicken tenders from becoming dry during reheating, cover them with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid to help retain moisture. Additionally, avoid overheating them, as this can lead to dryness.

Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

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Reheat Chicken Tenders Air Fryer

How To Reheat Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

5 from 2 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 9 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings

Description

How to Reheat Chicken Tenders (4 Different Ways): This is the ultimate guide to reheating chicken tenders in the air fryer!

Ingredients 

  • 4 leftover chicken tenders

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  • Cook the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders using a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Once heated, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy your crispy and delicious reheated chicken tenders!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 2kcalProtein: 0.4gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 2mgPotassium: 7mgVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 0.03mgCalcium: 0.1mgIron: 0.01mg

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