Do you have a few leftover chicken tenders that you just can’t bear to see go uneaten? Or thrown away? No problem. Reheating chicken tenders in the microwave is a convenient and quick way to enjoy your meal.
However, it’s important to make sure the chicken is heated thoroughly. In this article, we’ll cover how long to reheat chicken tenders in microwave and some tips to ensure they are heated evenly.
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How Long To Reheat Chicken Tenders In Microwave?
The time required to reheat chicken tenders in a microwave can vary depending on the number of chicken tenders and the power of your microwave.
As a general guideline, we advise that you reheat chicken tenders in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high power.
However, it’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a food thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming them.
How Do You Reheat Chicken Tenders In the Microwave?
To reheat chicken tenders in the microwave, follow these steps:
- Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate or container. It’s important to use a microwave-safe dish to avoid any harmful chemicals from leaching into your food.
- Cover the chicken tenders with a damp paper towel. This helps retain moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out during reheating.
- Microwave the chicken tenders on high for 1-2 minutes. The exact time needed to reheat chicken tenders in the microwave will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the amount of chicken you are reheating. Here is a general rule, you should start with 1 minute and add more time as needed.
- Check the temperature of the chicken tenders. Using a food thermometer is the best way to ensure that the chicken is heated to the correct temperature. The USDA recommends that all poultry be heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may be present.
- If the chicken tenders are not heated to the correct temperature, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until they are fully reheated.
General Tips For Reheating Chicken Tenders In The Microwave
Use a microwave-safe container.
Always use a microwave-safe container to reheat chicken tenders. Plastic containers may release harmful chemicals into your food when heated, so it’s best to use glass or ceramic dishes.
Add moisture.
Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out during reheating. This will help retain moisture and ensure the chicken is tender and juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the plate.
You need to ensure that the chicken is heated evenly. Make sure to spread it out in a single layer on the plate. If the chicken is piled on top of each other, it may not heat evenly.
Check the temperature.
To ensure the chicken is heated to the correct temperature, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. If the chicken is not fully reheated, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until it reaches the recommended temperature.
Avoid overcooking.
It’s important to reheat the chicken tenders until they are heated through, but be careful not to overcook them. Overcooking can cause the chicken to become dry and tough.
Consider marinating the chicken tenders before reheating:
If you have the time, try marinating the chicken tenders before reheating them. This can help to add flavor and moisture to the chicken tenders, making them more delicious and juicy.
Frequently Asked Question
Can you microwave leftover chicken tenders?
Yes, you can microwave leftover chicken tenders, but it’s important to do so properly to ensure that they are safe to eat and do not become overcooked or dry. We have helped you point out the steps above. If you follow the steps, your chicken tenders are sure to come out nice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, be mindful of the number of chicken tenders you’re reheating. If you’re reheating a large number of chicken tenders, it may be better to reheat them in smaller batches to ensure that they heat up evenly.
By using a microwave-safe container, adding moisture, checking the temperature, and following some additional tips, you can safely and easily reheat chicken tenders in the microwave.