Reheating method
How to reheat chicken in the oven
Safely stored chicken leftovers should reach 165°F (74°C) internally when reheated in an oven.
U.S. home food-safety guidance.Check the source and scope
What to do
- Put portions in an oven-safe dish, spaced rather than stacked; cover to help keep moisture in.
- Follow an oven or package method appropriate to the portion; oven setting and elapsed time do not establish the food temperature.
- Probe the thickest piece, and check more than one when sizes differ; continue heating any portion below 165°F.
Conditions and limits
- Confirm that the leftovers were cooled and refrigerated properly before reheating.
- For a casserole, probe the mixture’s center and other likely cold spots, not just a chicken piece.
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.