How To Reheat Rotisserie Chicken Without Drying It Out

Got leftover rotisserie chicken but not sure how to bring it back to life? You're not alone. Whether you picked up a whole bird from the store or saved some from dinner last night, reheating it right makes all the difference. The last thing you want is dry, rubbery meat that’s tough to chew and even harder to enjoy. The good news is, with the right methods and a few simple tricks, you can make your leftover chicken taste just as good as it did the first time around.

Rotisserie chicken is a go-to for quick meals, but reheating it the wrong way can ruin the texture and flavor. Microwaves, for example, can leave the meat soggy or overly dry. Ovens might take longer, but they tend to preserve juiciness better. There are also stovetop and air fryer methods that work well, depending on what you're aiming for. The key is to lock in moisture and avoid overcooking.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week or feeding your family on a busy night, knowing how to reheat rotisserie chicken properly can save you time and prevent food waste. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best techniques, tools, and pro tips to keep your chicken tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Let’s get into it.

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Table of Contents

• Why Reheating Properly Matters
• Best Ways to Reheat Rotisserie Chicken
• Oven Reheating: The Gold Standard
• Microwave Hacks for Quick Reheating
• Air Fryer: Crispy and Fast
• Stovetop: Ideal for Shredded Chicken
• Pro Tips for Juicy Results
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Reheating Properly Matters

Rotisserie chicken is already cooked, so reheating it isn’t just about warming it up—it’s about preserving its flavor, texture, and moisture. When you reheat it the wrong way, you risk drying it out or making it rubbery. That’s not only a waste of good food but also a letdown if you were hoping for a quick, satisfying meal.

The trick is to heat it just enough to bring it back to a warm, edible temperature without overcooking. Different reheating methods offer different results, so it’s worth knowing which one suits your needs best. Whether you're short on time or looking for the juiciest outcome, there’s a method that fits your situation.

Best Ways to Reheat Rotisserie Chicken

There are a few go-to methods for reheating rotisserie chicken, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s break them down so you can pick the one that works best for your situation:

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• Oven – Great for keeping chicken moist and crispy
• Microwave – Fast but tricky to avoid sogginess
• Air fryer – Perfect for crispy skin with juicy meat
• Stovetop – Ideal for shredded or sautéed chicken

Each method has its own timing and preparation steps, so let’s dive into the specifics so you can pick the one that suits you best.

Oven Reheating: The Gold Standard

Using the oven is one of the best ways to reheat rotisserie chicken without drying it out. The gentle, even heat helps preserve moisture, and if you wrap the chicken in foil with a bit of broth or water, you’ll end up with juicy results every time.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish.
3. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the dish.
4. Wrap the chicken loosely in foil to trap in steam.
5. Heat for about 20–25 minutes, or until warm all the way through.

This method works especially well if you want to keep the skin crispy while keeping the meat tender and moist.

Microwave Hacks for Quick Reheating

If you're short on time, the microwave is your friend—but it can easily make chicken dry and rubbery if you're not careful. The key is to use a few tricks to retain moisture.

Try this method:

1. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover it with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid.
3. Add a small splash of water or broth to the dish.
4. Microwave in 30-second intervals, checking for warmth and moisture.

Don’t overdo it—chicken reheats fast, and going too long can ruin the texture. Stir or flip the chicken between intervals for even heating.

Air Fryer: Crispy and Fast

If you love the crispy skin on rotisserie chicken, the air fryer is your best bet. It reheats the chicken quickly while keeping the skin crunchy and the inside juicy.

Here’s how to use an air fryer:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.
3. Lightly spray the chicken with oil or brush with a bit of broth.
4. Cook for about 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway through.

This method gives you that just-out-of-the-rotisserie texture in just a few minutes. Perfect for when you’re craving crispy skin without the wait.

Stovetop: Ideal for Shredded Chicken

Heating chicken on the stovetop is great if you plan to use it in tacos, wraps, or stir-fries. It gives you more control over the texture and allows you to add extra flavor while reheating.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Place the chicken in a skillet or saucepan.
2. Add a small amount of broth, water, or sauce.
3. Cover and heat over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes.
4. Shred or slice the chicken once it’s warm and ready to use.

This method works especially well if you’re using the chicken as part of another dish and don’t mind it being a bit broken down.

Pro Tips for Juicy Results

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your reheated rotisserie chicken stays as tasty as possible:

• Use liquid – Broth, water, or even a splash of sauce helps retain moisture.
• Don’t overheat – Reheat just until warm, not piping hot.
• Rest it – Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after reheating to let the juices settle.
• Use a meat thermometer – Make sure it reaches at least 120°F but doesn’t go beyond 140°F.

These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your chicken tender and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reheat rotisserie chicken more than once?

Technically, you can reheat chicken more than once, but it’s best to avoid doing so. Each time you reheat it, the texture gets drier, and there’s a higher risk of bacterial growth if not handled properly. If you’re reheating, it’s better to only take out what you need and keep the rest refrigerated.

How long can I keep rotisserie chicken in the fridge?

Rotisserie chicken stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 4 months.

How do I keep the skin crispy when reheating?

For crispy skin, the air fryer or oven is your best bet. If you’re using the oven, uncover the chicken for the last few minutes of reheating to let the skin crisp up. A quick broil at the end can also help, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

If you're looking for more ways to use leftover chicken, check out our recipe ideas for turning it into new meals. Learn more about creative ways to use rotisserie chicken on our site.

Want to explore more cooking tips and tricks? Check out this article on Food Network's guide to reheating chicken for additional expert advice.