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How to reheat chicken breast without drying it out
Reheat safely stored breast to 165°F (74°C) internally; moisture and timing are quality controls, not alternatives to the reading.
U.S. home food-safety guidance.Check the source and scope
What to do
- Group thick pieces separately from thin slices, and use a covered oven dish or covered microwave-safe dish with a little liquid.
- Rearrange or turn so a thin edge does not dry while the center stays cool.
- Measure the thickest center; check another piece if sizes differ and continue heating below 165°F.
Conditions and limits
- A sauce can add moisture after heating but cannot correct unsafe prior storage.
- For exact oven or microwave handling, use the method-specific guide.
Source and scope
Primary reference: USDA FSIS Leftovers and Food Safety. Equipment-specific steps and quality suggestions are practical guidance; check the appliance or product instructions for your model. How this site uses sources.