What To Know
- Whether you’re working with rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even leftover chicken from a casserole, this technique will give you a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior.
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Heat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or until heated through.
Ever find yourself with leftover cooked chicken and a craving for something crispy and flavorful? Frying already cooked chicken is a surprisingly easy and delicious way to transform your leftovers into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re working with rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even leftover chicken from a casserole, this technique will give you a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior.
Why Fry Already Cooked Chicken?
You might be wondering why bother frying already cooked chicken when you could just bake or grill it. The answer lies in the texture and flavor. Frying creates a uniquely crispy and flavorful crust that you can’t achieve with other cooking methods. It also adds a rich, savory depth to the chicken that complements a wide range of sauces and sides.
The Right Kind of Chicken for Frying
Not all cooked chicken is created equal when it comes to frying. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:
- Rotisserie Chicken: A classic choice for frying. The skin is already seasoned and the meat is tender, making it perfect for a quick and flavorful fry.
- Grilled Chicken Breasts: Grilled chicken breasts can also be fried, but they may require a little more attention to ensure they don’t become dry.
- Leftover Chicken from Other Dishes: You can fry chicken from casseroles, stir-fries, or other dishes, but be sure to remove any excess sauce or marinade before frying.
Essential Equipment for Frying Chicken
Before you start frying, make sure you have the right equipment:
- Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan: This will ensure even heat distribution and prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Neutral oil with a high smoke point: Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are good choices.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon: For safely turning and removing the chicken from the hot oil.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil.
Preparing the Chicken for Frying
1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces: This will ensure even cooking and allow the chicken to brown quickly.
2. Pat the chicken dry: This will help the skin become crispy and prevent the oil from splattering.
3. Season the chicken: While the chicken is already cooked, adding a little extra flavor never hurts. Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
How to Fry Already Cooked Chicken
1. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into your skillet to reach about ΒΌ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
2. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the chicken: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve immediately: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful fried chicken while it’s still hot.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from getting crispy.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Fried chicken can dry out quickly, so don’t cook it for too long.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer can help ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Experiment with different seasonings: Get creative with your seasoning blends to create unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Fried chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Classic Southern Style: Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, and collard greens.
- Asian-Inspired: Pair with stir-fried vegetables and rice.
- Sandwich: Create a delicious fried chicken sandwich with your favorite toppings.
- Salad: Add a crispy element to your salad with fried chicken pieces.
Beyond the Fry: Other Ways to Reheat Cooked Chicken
While frying is a fantastic way to add crispy texture and flavor, you can also reheat cooked chicken using other methods:
- Baking: Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Microwave the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Skillet: Heat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or until heated through.
A Final Word on Frying Cooked Chicken
Frying already cooked chicken is a simple and delicious way to transform leftovers into a satisfying meal. With a few tips and tricks, you can achieve a crispy, flavorful exterior with a juicy, tender interior. So next time you have leftover chicken, don’t hesitate to give frying a try!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of oil is best for frying chicken?
A: Neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying chicken. These oils can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or imparting unwanted flavors.
Q: How do I know if the oil is hot enough?
A: You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
Q: Can I fry chicken that has been frozen?
A: While it’s possible to fry frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it completely first. Frozen chicken will take longer to cook and may not brown evenly.
Q: What if the chicken is too dry?
A: If the chicken is too dry, you can add a little bit of moisture before frying. You can brush it with a little bit of butter or olive oil, or even add a tablespoon of water to the pan.
Q: Can I reheat fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can reheat fried chicken. The best way to reheat it is in the oven at a low temperature (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.
