Reheating method
How to reheat chicken on the stove
For safely stored leftovers, a covered skillet or saucepan can reheat chicken; check the food itself at 165°F (74°C).
U.S. home food-safety guidance.Check the source and scope
What to do
- Use a pan and a small amount of water or broth for pieces that would otherwise dry out.
- Turn or stir so pieces from the pan edge and center heat evenly.
- Probe the thickest piece or dense clump, then another spot; continue heating if either is below 165°F.
Conditions and limits
- A boiling sauce does not prove a solid chicken center is hot enough.
- Do not use reheating to rescue leftovers held outside safe storage limits.
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.