Korean fried chicken is undoubtedly one of the most delicious dishes to come out of Korea. The juicy and crispy chicken pieces, coated in a flavorful batter and drizzled with sweet and spicy sauce, have gained a massive following across the globe. However, if you’re a fan of Korean fried chicken, you must know that reheating it can be a bit tricky. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks for heating up Korean fried chicken to perfection.
First, let’s talk about why reheating Korean fried chicken can be challenging. The crispy texture of the batter and the sauce on the chicken can quickly turn soggy and lose its flavor when reheated. Additionally, if you’re not careful, the chicken can get overcooked, leading to a dry and unappetizing dish. But don’t worry! With the following tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your leftover Korean fried chicken as if it’s freshly made.
- Oven
Using an oven is one of the best ways to reheat Korean fried chicken. It helps retain the crispiness of the batter while keeping the chicken juicy. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching each other. Once the oven is hot, put the baking sheet inside and bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Make sure to check on the chicken every few minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Air Fryer
An air fryer is another excellent option for reheating Korean fried chicken. It works by circulating hot air around the chicken, creating a crispy texture without the need for excess oil. To reheat your chicken in an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Then, place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, then flip the pieces and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. Again, make sure to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking.
- Microwave
While using a microwave may be the quickest way to reheat Korean fried chicken, it’s also the least recommended. Microwaving can lead to a loss of texture and flavor in the chicken, making it less enjoyable to eat. However, if you must use a microwave, make sure to wrap the chicken pieces in a damp paper towel to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Then, heat the chicken in 30-second intervals, checking after each interval until it’s heated through.
- Stovetop
Using a stovetop is another option for reheating Korean fried chicken. To do this, place a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can help restore some of the crispiness to the batter while keeping the chicken moist.
Now that we’ve covered the different ways to reheat Korean fried chicken let’s talk about how to keep it crispy and flavorful. One of the keys to maintaining the texture of the chicken is to avoid overcrowding. Make sure to space out the chicken pieces so that the heat can circulate evenly. Additionally, placing the chicken on a wire rack while reheating can help prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.
Another tip is to reheat the sauce separately from the chicken. This will prevent the sauce from getting absorbed into the batter and making it soggy. You can either heat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave and pour it over the chicken after it’s been reheated. This will ensure that the sauce is hot and the chicken remains crispy.
When reheating Korean fried chicken, it’s also essential to be mindful of the cooking time. Overcooking the chicken can lead to dry and tough meat, while undercooking can lead to a loss of texture and flavor. Make sure to check the chicken regularly while reheating and remove it from the heat once it’s heated through.
Lastly, when reheating Korean fried chicken, it’s important to handle it with care. The chicken pieces can be delicate and break apart easily, especially if they’ve been refrigerated or frozen. To avoid this, handle the chicken gently and use tongs or a spatula to turn it over. This will help preserve the shape and texture of the chicken.
In conclusion, reheating Korean fried chicken can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques, it’s possible to enjoy it just as much as when it’s freshly made. Using an oven, air fryer, stovetop, or microwave are all viable options for reheating, but it’s essential to be mindful of the cooking time and handle the chicken with care. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy your leftover Korean fried chicken without sacrificing its crispy texture and delicious flavor.
