Reheating Chick-Fil-A Nuggets: Air Fryer Method

If you have leftover Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets and are looking to reheat them, using an air fryer is the best way to go. Not only is it quick and easy, but it also ensures that your nuggets are crispy and juicy, just like when you first bought them. To get the best results, preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes. Then, brush the nuggets with a tiny bit of oil and spread them out in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 360°F (18°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. And that's it! You can now enjoy your crispy and juicy Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets.

Reheating frozen vs. refrigerated nuggets

Reheating refrigerated or frozen nuggets in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get them tasting as good as new. It's best to reheat in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which will ensure the hot air can circulate and give you the crispiest results.

If you're reheating refrigerated nuggets, preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 360°F (180°C). Place the nuggets in a single layer in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can brush or spray the nuggets with a small amount of oil to make them crisp up more, but this isn't necessary.

If you're reheating frozen nuggets, you don't need to defrost them first. Simply place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Regardless of whether your nuggets are refrigerated or frozen, always ensure they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

How long to reheat in the air fryer

Reheating Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets in an air fryer is an effective way to make them crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The circulating hot air in the air fryer helps to crisp up the outside of the nuggets, and the results are much better than using a microwave.

When reheating your nuggets, it is best to use a single layer of nuggets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This is because the hot air needs to be able to circulate to get them crispy. You can brush or spray the nuggets with a bit of olive oil or canola oil to help with this, although some people prefer not to add any extra oil.

The time and temperature settings will depend on the type of air fryer you have. For air fryers that go above 400°, set the air fryer to AIR FRY at 420° for 4 minutes. This temperature and time setting works best for reheating either grilled or breaded nuggets, and there is no need to preheat the air fryer. If your air fryer does not go above 400°, set it to 380° and leave the nuggets in for 5 minutes.

If you are reheating frozen nuggets, you will need a bit more time and a lower temperature. Set the air fryer to 400° and leave the nuggets for 10 minutes.

Best dipping sauces

Yes, you can reheat Chick-fil-A nuggets in an air fryer. To do so, place the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, leaving a bit of space between them. Set the air fryer to air fry at 420°F for 4 minutes. No preheating is required.

Now, onto the best part—the sauces! Here are some mouth-watering dipping sauces to pair with your air-fried Chick-fil-A nuggets:

• Spicy-Sweet Honey: A delicious combination of sweetness and spice that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Creamy Ranch: A classic choice for a reason—cool and creamy ranch is the perfect complement to crispy nuggets.
• Maple & Mustard: This sauce offers a unique twist on traditional mustard, adding a touch of sweetness from the maple.
• Creamy Sriracha: For those who like it hot, this sauce brings the heat with a creamy texture.
• Slow Cooker Apple Sauce: A sweet and tangy option that your kids will love.
• Honey Mustard: A blend of honey and mustard creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. You can make your own or opt for a store-bought version like Ken's Steak House brand.
• Sour Cream and Horseradish: A tangy and creamy sauce with a kick of horseradish.
• Hummus and Horseradish: An unexpected pairing that offers a unique flavor profile.
• Asian Sweet Chilli Sauce: Sweet and spicy, this sauce will add a burst of flavor to your nuggets.
• Buffalo Sauce: Bring on the heat with this classic wing sauce.
• BBQ Sauce: From sweet and smoky to tangy and spicy, the possibilities are endless. If you're looking for a recommendation, try Carolina Gold.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing and creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It's the perfect choice for a healthier dip.
• Avocado-Oil-Based Mayonnaise: Indulge in the creamy goodness of avocado oil mayonnaise, a unique twist on the classic condiment.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce: A timeless combination of sweet and tangy flavors that pairs perfectly with chicken nuggets.

Can you freeze Chick-fil-A nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze Chick-fil-A nuggets to reheat and eat later. Freezing them is not just about saving food; it's about saving time and ensuring you have a quick, tasty snack or meal ready to go.

Preparing the Nuggets for Freezing

Before freezing, let the nuggets cool to room temperature to prevent condensation inside the container or bag, which can make the nuggets soggy. Then, spread them out on a wire rack or a plate lined with a paper towel.

Once cooled, place the nuggets in an airtight container or freezer bag. If using bags, lay the nuggets in a single layer to ensure more even reheating. Squeeze out excess air before sealing the bag.

Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps keep track of the shelf life and organise your freezer.

Freezing the Nuggets

Your freezer should be set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. Place the container or bag of nuggets in the coldest part of the freezer, usually the back, to avoid temperature fluctuations.

Thawing and Reheating the Nuggets

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen nuggets, the best way to thaw them is to transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator. This slow method helps maintain the texture. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave on the defrost setting. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't start cooking. Once thawed, cook them immediately.

Do not thaw the nuggets at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.

The best way to reheat the nuggets is in the oven or an air fryer. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket, and heat for about 10 minutes or until hot and crispy.

You can also use the microwave, but this won't retain the crispiness. Heat the nuggets in 30-second intervals until warm.

Storage Times

Leftover nuggets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 1-2 months. Beyond 2 months, they're still safe to eat but may lose some flavour and texture.

Reheating waffle fries

If you have waffle fries left over from your Chick-fil-A order, you can reheat them in the air fryer along with your nuggets. It is best to reheat them in a single layer in the basket or tray, with a bit of space between them, so they can get hot and crispy on all sides.

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the waffle fries in the air fryer and heat them for three to six minutes, depending on how crispy you like them. You can shake the basket halfway through cooking and whenever you check on them.

You can also reheat waffle fries in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the waffle fries out on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Heat them in the oven for about eight to ten minutes, then give them a quick toss. If you want them crispier, bake for another two to three minutes.

Another option is to reheat waffle fries on the stovetop. Grab a cast-iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of oil, then add the waffle fries in a single layer. Cook, flipping occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions