Fried Chicken > Can you make fried chicken in advance

Can You Make Fried Chicken in Advance?

Fried chicken is a delicious, crispy comfort food that everyone loves. But it’s typically served fresh and hot right after frying. Is there a way to prepare fried chicken ahead of time while still maintaining that signature crunch? Fortunately, the answer is yes – with some planning and proper storage, you can absolutely make fried chicken in advance.

Can You Make Fried Chicken in Advance?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to prepare fried chicken ahead of time. After frying the chicken, let it cool completely. Then store the pieces in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container or bag in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly in a hot oven or by refrying briefly to recrisp the outside coating before serving.

Related post: Can you make fried chicken healthy?

How to Prepare Fried Chicken Ahead of Time

Here are some tips for preparing fried chicken ahead of time:

• • Bread and fry the chicken: You’ll want to go ahead and bread and fry the chicken pieces as you normally would, making sure they are cooked through. Allow them to cool completely.
  • Refrigerate promptly: Fried foods will start to lose their crispiness quickly at room temperature. After cooking, let the chicken cool briefly, then transfer to an airtight container or zipper bag. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Use multiple layers: Separate layers of fried chicken pieces with parchment paper before storing to prevent them from sticking together.
  • Reheat thoroughly: When ready to eat, reheat fried chicken pieces in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until hot and crispy again. You can also re-fry for 2-3 minutes.

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Keeping Fried Chicken Fresh Overnight

If you only need your fried chicken to stay fresh overnight, here are some tips:

• • After frying, let the chicken cool completely first before refrigerating in an airtight container.
  • You can place the fried chicken straight into the fridge while still warm – just don’t seal the container right away. Letting steam escape will prevent sogginess.
  • Store fried chicken in the fridge up to overnight. For longer storage, consider freezing (see tips below).
  • To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven to crisp up the chicken again. Microwaving will make it soggy.

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Freezing Fried Chicken

For longer storage, fried chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months:

• • Cool fried chicken completely before freezing. Package in airtight containers or freezer bags.
  • Separate pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Try to remove as much air as possible.
  • Thaw frozen fried chicken gradually in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat fried chicken straight from frozen using a 375°F oven or air fryer, not the microwave.

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So, Can you prepare fried chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare fried chicken in advance. Cook the chicken fully, allow to cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven, not the microwave, to warm the chicken thoroughly and restore the signature crispy texture. Arrange in a single layer for even heating.

So go ahead and make a big batch of fried chicken for the weekend! With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy crispy, fresh-tasting fried chicken even when prepared in advance.

FAQs
How far in advance can you bread chicken for frying?

You can bread chicken pieces up to 24 hours before frying. To prevent the breading from getting soggy, refrigerate on a wire rack or parchment paper-lined pan uncovered. This allows air flow.

Can you prep fried chicken batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix up a batch of fried chicken batter and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before using. The key is keeping the batter cold. Let it come to room temp before dredging and frying.

What’s the best way to reheat fried chicken?

Using the oven is ideal for reheating fried chicken without losing that signature crunch. Place in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy on the outside. Refrying and using an air fryer also work well. Avoid microwaving.

How can you keep fried chicken warm for serving later?

After frying, place chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Keep in a 225°F oven for up to 2 hours. The elevated rack will allow air flow and keep the crust crispy.

 

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