I. Introduction
If you’re a fan of chicken wings, you know how frustrating it is to have leftover wings that are cold and soggy the next day. Luckily, reheating chicken wings is not a daunting task as long as you know the right technique to use. In this article, we’re going to explore different methods for reheating chicken wings to ensure they stay crispy and juicy.
II. Traditional Oven Method
The oven method is a classic way of reheating chicken wings, and it guarantees crispy and succulent wings if done right. All you need to do is preheat your oven to 350°F, place the wings in a baking dish, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra crispiness, remove the foil for the last five minutes of baking.
III. Using a Microwave, the Quick Method
If you’re looking for a quick way to reheat your leftover chicken wings, the microwave method is the way to go. However, the method requires caution as the wings can become soggy quickly. To avoid this, place a wet paper towel on the plate before placing the wings, and cover them with another wet paper towel. Microwave for 2-3 minutes on high heat, turning the wings halfway through. If you want to avoid the sogginess altogether, put them in the oven or toaster oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to finish crisping them. Here is a great video tutorial on how to microwave chicken wings:
IV. Using an Air Fryer
The air fryer is an excellent appliance for reheating chicken wings as it provides a similar texture and crispiness that you get from deep-frying. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F, place the wings in the basket in a single layer, and cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Some air fryer models require less time as they have higher heating capabilities. One downside of using an air fryer is that it can dry out the wings. However, you can avoid this by placing a small cup of water in the air fryer during the cooking process. Here is how to reheat chicken wings in an air fryer:
V. Deep-Fry Once More
While this method may sound extreme, it is an effective way of reviving leftover chicken wings. You need to deep-fry the wings once more, and they will come out crispy and hot, just like they were fresh. Heat oil at 350°F in a deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot. Place the wings in the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, and serve hot. Here is a step-by-step video tutorial on how to deep-fry chicken wings:
VI. On a Pan or Skillet
If you don’t have an oven, air fryer, or microwave, you can reheat chicken wings on a pan or a skillet. Heat some oil in the pan or skillet on medium heat, place the wings in the pan in a single layer, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy. This method is not as effective as the oven or air fryer methods, but it gets the job done. The timing may vary based on the thickness and size of the wings.
VII. Boiling/Mixing with Soup
Boiling or mixing your chicken wings with soup is a unique way of reheating them while also adding flavor. You can use any soup of your choice, including chicken noodle soup, mushroom soup, tomato soup, etc. To do this, place the wings in a pot with soup, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Ensure that the wings are submerged in the soup, lower the heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. The soup will not only keep the wings moist, but it will also add flavor to them. Here are some recipe ideas for soups to mix with chicken wings:
- Chicken and Dumpling Soup
- Spicy Tomato Soup
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup
- Thai Coconut Curry Soup
VIII. Serving Cold
If you’re looking to enjoy the wings without reheating, you can serve them cold with dips on the side. Some popular dips include ranch, blue cheese, BBQ sauce, and sweet chili sauce. Preparing evenly cold wings is easy. Just keep the wings in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
IX. Conclusion
Now that you know the different methods of reheating chicken wings, you never have to settle for cold and soggy wings again. Each method has its pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits you. However, always ensure that the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid foodborne illnesses. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dips and toppings, enabling you to enjoy your chicken wings in different ways.
