How to Reheat Grilled Chicken Without Drying It Out

Grilled chicken is a delicious and versatile protein that many people enjoy, whether freshly cooked or as leftovers. However, reheating it improperly can lead to dry, rubbery, or tough meat, stripping away the juicy flavors that make it so enjoyable.

If you’ve ever struggled with reheating grilled chicken while keeping it moist and flavorful, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore different methods to reheat grilled chicken effectively and provide tips to maintain its tenderness and taste.

Best Methods to Reheat Grilled Chicken

1. Oven Method (Best for Maintaining Juiciness)

One of the best ways to reheat grilled chicken without drying it out is by using an oven. This method provides gentle, even heat that helps retain the chicken’s natural moisture.

Steps to Reheat in the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for reheating without overcooking the meat.
2. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish or baking tray.
3. Add moisture by drizzling a little chicken broth, water, or melted butter over the meat. This helps prevent it from drying out.
4. Cover with aluminum foil to lock in the moisture while it heats up.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
6. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
7. Let it rest for a minute before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Why This Works:

• Even heating prevents overcooking
• The added moisture keeps the chicken juicy
• Covering it with foil helps retain heat and steam

2. Stovetop Method (Quick & Effective)

If you’re looking for a faster way to reheat grilled chicken while keeping it moist, using a stovetop skillet is a great option.

Steps to Reheat on the Stovetop:

1. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add a small amount of oil, butter, or broth to the pan to prevent sticking and add moisture.
3. Place the grilled chicken in the skillet and cover with a lid.
4. Reheat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
5. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before serving.

Why This Works:

• Retains moisture due to controlled heat
• Adds a slight crispiness to the exterior
• Fast and convenient

3. Microwave Method (Fastest but Can Dry Out)

If you’re short on time, reheating grilled chicken in a microwave is the quickest option. However, it can dry out easily, so proper technique is key.

Steps to Reheat in the Microwave:

1. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
3. Use medium power (50-60%) instead of high heat to prevent overcooking.
4. Heat in 30-second intervals, flipping the chicken each time.
5. Check the temperature after each interval and stop once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it sit for a minute before eating, as residual heat will help distribute moisture.

Why This Works:

• Fastest reheating option
• The damp paper towel helps prevent dryness
• Heating in intervals prevents overheating

4. Air Fryer Method (For Crispy Skin)

If you love a crispy texture, an air fryer is a fantastic option for reheating grilled chicken without sacrificing moisture.

Steps to Reheat in the Air Fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket to allow even airflow.
3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking periodically.
4. Flip halfway through to ensure even heating.
5. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Why This Works:

• Restores crispiness while keeping the inside juicy
• Quick and efficient reheating
• No added oil required

5. Sous Vide Method (Best for Moisture Retention)

For the most precise reheating, using a sous vide method ensures the chicken stays perfectly juicy without overcooking.

Steps to Reheat Using Sous Vide:

1. Fill a large pot or sous vide container with water.
2. Set the sous vide machine to 140-150°F (60-65°C).
3. Seal the grilled chicken in a vacuum bag or Ziploc bag using the water displacement method.
4. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for 15-20 minutes.
5. Remove from the bag, pat dry, and serve.

Why This Works:

• Ensures even heating without drying out
• Retains all juices and flavors
• Perfect for meal prep and batch cooking

Tips for Keeping Grilled Chicken Moist

Regardless of which reheating method you use, following these tips will help keep your grilled chicken from drying out:

1. Store Properly

• Use an airtight container to keep out excess air.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

2. Slice Before Reheating (If Necessary)

• Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces allows for faster, more even reheating.
• This method works best for stovetop or microwave reheating.

3. Add Moisture

• Whether using broth, butter, or water, adding a bit of liquid helps retain juiciness.
• Avoid excessive liquid, as it may dilute the flavor.

4. Avoid Overheating

• Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Once the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s ready to eat.

Conclusion

Reheating grilled chicken doesn’t have to mean sacrificing its texture or taste. By choosing the right method—whether using an oven, stovetop, microwave, air fryer, or sous vide—you can ensure your leftovers remain juicy and flavorful.

If you have the time, the oven and sous vide methods are the best for retaining moisture. For quick reheating, the stovetop and air fryer methods work well without drying the chicken out. And if you’re in a hurry, the microwave method is the fastest but requires extra care to prevent toughness.

By following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy your grilled chicken just as much the second time around.