I love chicken legs – they’re flavorful, juicy, and oh so satisfying. Whether I’m grilling them on a summer evening or baking them in the oven for a cozy winter dinner, chicken legs are always a crowd-pleaser. But what do you do when you have leftovers? Fear not, my fellow chicken enthusiasts, because I’m here to share with you a quick and easy way to reheat those chicken legs in the microwave.
Gather Your Leftover Chicken Legs
The first step in reheating chicken legs in the microwave is, of course, having the leftovers ready. Maybe you had a big family gathering or you ordered a large portion of chicken legs from your favorite restaurant. Whatever the case may be, make sure you have your leftover chicken legs on hand and ready to go.
Prepare Your Chicken Legs for Reheating
Before we dive into the reheating process, it’s important to mention that microwaving chicken legs may result in slightly less crispy skin compared to other reheating methods like the oven or stovetop. However, if you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to enjoy your leftover chicken legs, the microwave method is the way to go.
To prepare your chicken legs for reheating, start by removing any sauces or toppings that may have been added. While the microwave can handle small amounts of sauce, it’s best to remove excess to prevent any mess or uneven heating.
Next, place the chicken legs on a microwave-safe plate or dish. It’s important to arrange them in a single layer to ensure even heating. If you have more than a couple of chicken legs, you may need to reheat them in batches.
Add Moisture and Seal in Flavor
One of the challenges with microwaving chicken legs is maintaining moisture. To tackle this issue, I have a simple trick up my sleeve – adding a bit of moisture. Before placing the chicken legs in the microwave, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over them. This additional moisture will help prevent the chicken from drying out during the reheating process.
To further enhance the flavor, you can also add some herbs or spices to the chicken legs. A sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or even dried herbs like rosemary or thyme can add an extra layer of deliciousness.
Cover and Reheat in Intervals
Once your chicken legs are prepped and ready, it’s time to cover them before placing them in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe cover, such as a microwave plate cover or a moistened paper towel, to prevent splattering and help the chicken retain its moisture.
Now it’s time to set the microwave power and time. I recommend starting with 50% power to ensure gentle reheating. Depending on the wattage of your microwave and the number of chicken legs, you will need to adjust the time accordingly. As a general guide, I find that reheating two chicken legs requires around 2-3 minutes on 50% power.
However, it’s crucial to remember that microwaves vary, so keep a close eye on your chicken legs during the reheating process. The goal is to reheat them thoroughly without overcooking and drying them out. If needed, you can always add a little extra time in small increments until they reach the desired temperature.
Check for Doneness and Enjoy!
Once the time is up, carefully remove the chicken legs from the microwave. Be mindful of hot steam that may escape when you remove the cover. To ensure that the chicken legs are safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully reheated and safe for consumption.
Once you’ve confirmed that your chicken legs are properly reheated, it’s time to indulge in their flavorful goodness. Serve them with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, or enjoy them on their own as a quick snack.
In Conclusion
Microwaving chicken legs to reheat them can be a convenient and time-saving option, especially when you’re short on time. By following these simple steps – gathering your leftovers, preparing the chicken legs, adding moisture, covering while reheating, and checking for doneness – you can enjoy the tender and delicious taste of reheated chicken legs in no time.
So, the next time you find yourself with leftover chicken legs, don’t let them go to waste. Give this quick and easy microwave method a try and savor every bite of your reheated chicken legs!