I still remember the first time I made cornflake chicken. It was golden, crispy, and absolutely perfect—the kind of meal you just want to make over and over again. But then came the next day. I reached into the fridge, grabbed my leftovers, and popped them in the microwave.
Big mistake.
The once-crunchy coating turned into a soggy, chewy mess. The flavor was still there, but that satisfying crunch? Gone. Completely gone.
That’s when I realized that reheating chicken the right way makes all the difference. The good news? I found the perfect solution—the air fryer! If you’ve ever wondered how to make leftover cornflake chicken crispy again, you’re in the right place.
If you’re new to air frying, check out this air fryer preheating guide to understand why this step is so important before reheating! And if want a full guide about the Cornflake Chicken in Air Fryer, take a look at my detailed article.
What you will find in this article:
Why the Air Fryer Is the Best Way to Reheat Cornflake Chicken
So, why should you use an air fryer instead of the microwave or oven? Here’s why:
Air Fryer vs. Microwave vs. Oven – Which One Wins?
✅ Air Fryer – Best for crispy texture and even reheating
✅ Oven – Good for crispiness but takes longer than an air fryer
❌ Microwave – Ruins the texture by making the coating soggy
Unlike the microwave, which traps steam and softens the coating, the air fryer circulates hot air, reviving that crispy, crunchy exterior.
How to Reheat Cornflake Chicken in an Air Fryer? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Why? Preheating prevents uneven heating and soggy breading.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken Properly
- Place chicken in a single layer—no overlapping!
- Why? Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to inconsistent crisping.
Step 3: Lightly Spray with Oil
- Lightly spray the chicken with avocado or olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Why? A light mist refreshes the crust without making it greasy.
Step 4: Reheat for 3-4 Minutes, Then Flip
- Set the timer for 3-4 minutes, then flip halfway through.
- Why? Flipping ensures even reheating and prevents burnt spots.
Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature
- Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If not hot enough, air fry for 1-2 extra minutes.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
- Let the chicken sit for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Why? This helps the crust set and crisp up fully.
Common Mistakes When Reheating Cornflake Chicken
🔹 Mistake #1: Skipping Preheating
- A cold air fryer = uneven reheating.
- Always preheat for at least 3-5 minutes before adding the chicken.
🔹 Mistake #2: Overcrowding the Basket
- Overlapping pieces trap moisture, making them soft instead of crispy.
- Always spread out the chicken in a single layer.
🔹 Mistake #3: Using Too Much Oil
- A light mist is perfect, but too much oil makes it greasy instead of crispy.
- Use avocado or olive oil spray, not drizzled oil.
Pro Tips for Extra-Crispy Reheated Chicken
⭐ Increase the heat to 375°F for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
⭐ Want extra crunch? Sprinkle on Parmesan or crushed cornflakes before reheating!
⭐ Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before reheating for even better texture.
How to Store Cornflake Chicken Properly
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
- Best way to thaw frozen chicken: Let it sit in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Alternative Methods: Reheating in the Oven or Skillet
Oven Method
- Preheat to 375°F.
- Bake on a wire rack for 10 minutes for crispy texture.
Skillet Method
- Heat a nonstick pan with a little oil over medium heat.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until hot and crispy.
Why the Air Fryer is Still the Best
✅ Faster than the oven
✅ Keeps chicken juicier than the skillet method
✅ Uses less oil than both methods
FAQs: People Also Ask
Can I reheat frozen cornflake chicken directly in the air fryer?
- Yes! Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Should I cover the chicken while reheating?
- No! Covering traps steam, which makes the breading soggy.
Why does my reheated chicken taste dry?
- It was either overcooked or not sprayed with enough oil.
Can I use parchment paper in the air fryer?
- Yes, but only perforated parchment paper to allow airflow.
Final Thoughts: My Secret to Crispy, Reheated Cornflake Chicken
The first time I tried reheating cornflake chicken, I made every mistake in the book—from microwaving (never again!) to using too much oil. But now? I’ve perfected the air fryer method to bring back that crispy, crunchy texture.
Now, whenever I make extra cornflake chicken, I actually look forward to the leftovers—because I know I can reheat them perfectly in just a few minutes.
Give this method a try and let me know!
