Whether you're meal prepping or just have leftovers from a party how to reheat wings can leave you stumped. The answer is simple so don't go tossing out any leftover wings before reading below.
Wings are a great way to feed a crowd but sometimes I go overboard and have leftover chicken wings. Unlike other crowdpleasers, I'd like to consume my wings while crispy and hot.
There is no right way to reheat wings but next time you have leftovers follow these best methods. Follow along with my reheating process to ensure you have yummy leftovers.
FDA and USDA Guidelines
The USDA generally recommends consuming leftovers of any kind in 3-4 days on average. This will guarantee maximum freshness and is your safest bet for avoiding any potential side effects. Always check for signs of spoilage.
How to Reheat Wings
I've got 5 different methods to get those cold wings back to the delicious snack you were enjoying the day before.
- All you need for method 1 is an air fryer and 2-3 minutes of cook time.
- For method 2 all you need is a baking tray and a regular oven which does take more time but this is a good reheating method for an even cook.
- Method 3 is putting wings straight on the grill which is great for crispy wings and smoky flavor.
- Method 4 is a great option if you lack some of the above appliances as all you need is a stovetop, a frying pan and non-stick cooking spray.
- Method 5 is just using a microwave which is a fine way to reheat wings if you have no other options and are in a rush.
Methods
How to reheat wings in the air fryer
The air fryer is my first method of choice as it's by far the easiest way to revive crispy skin and get hot wings in just a couple of minutes. Air fryers cook by rotating hot air around the food to ensure an even cook. Simple steps will turn your cold wings into great leftovers.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- Spray your wings with oil and place them in the air fryer basket or on the wire rack.
- Reheat your wings for about 2-3 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F by using a meat thermometer before removing.
- Remove carefully and enjoy with your favorite sauce.
Pro Tip: Space the wings out to ensure they cook evenly.
How to reheat wings in the oven
The oven method is great for heating many wings at one time. Cooking time is a bit longer but if you're reheating for a crowd this is the best option.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Remove wings from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
- Once rested, spray your baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or use parchment paper.
- Add your wings in a single layer to your baking sheet.
- Bake for 6 minutes on one side, flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side.
Pro Tip: Spritz your wings with a little water to avoid dry wings.
How to reheat wings on the grill
Reheating wings on the grill takes a little extra time to prep and to cook but it's the best way to ensure good flavor. This method prevents soggy wings and gives a smoky flavor.
- Light the grill and let it preheat to a high temperature.
- Place the wings directly on the grill grates. For already sauced wings you can wrap your wings in aluminum foil.
- Close the grill lid and let them cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping if needed.
- Before taking them off ensure the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees F.
- Take them of the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
Pro Tip: For already sauced wings you can wrap your wings in aluminum foil to prevent them from sticking.
How to reheat wings in a frying pan
The frying pan method is a great way go from soggy skin to crispy chicken wings. The oil lightly fries the skin for a perfect crisp or if you prefer to use less oil just spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Let the wings rest to room temperature after taking them out of the refrigerator.
- Lightly grease your pan or add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Let the pan and oil warm up on the stove at medium-high heat.
- Heat the wings for 3-4 minutes and rotate to crisp all sides.
- Allow wings to cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: Line a plate or cutting board with paper towels for excess oil, let wings rest before serving.
How to reheat wings in the microwave
Reheating wings in the microwave is not my first choice but if you have no other way then there is a correct way to do it.
- Place a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate. Add the wings in a single layer and place a damp paper towel on top.
- Cook them on high for 2-3 minutes or until they are warmed.
- For crispy skin transfer them to a frying pan or air fryer for another 1-2 minutes.
Pro Tip: The damp paper towel pulls moisture back into the chicken to avoid dry wings.
FAQ'S
The best way to reheat pre-sauced wings is to use the frying pan method or the grill method. When using the frying pan be sure to heat the oil well and spritz the wings with a bit of water before placing them in the pan. When using the grill method, use foil to avoid sticking to the grill grates.
If stored properly in an airtight container or zip-lock bag the USDA says cooked chicken can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you're on to day 5 it's recommended to toss it.
The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F when reheating chicken wings.
Chicken just like any other meat can be reheated safely two or more times. The most important thing to remember when reheating chicken is that it needs to be reheated all the way through. Chicken must be steamed in the middle and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before serving or consuming.
Top Tips
- Space the wings out to ensure they cook evenly when reheating in the air fryer and oven.
- Spritz your wings with water to avoid dry wings when reheating in the oven or on the stovetop.
- Using a damp paper towel pulls moisture back into the chicken to avoid dry wings when microwaving.
- For already sauced wings you can wrap your wings in aluminum foil or pan fry.
- Line a plate or cutting board with paper towels to soak up excess oil, let wings rest before serving when pan frying.
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