So you’ve just come home from a long day of work, and the last thing you want to do is cook. You remember that you bought a rotisserie chicken from Costco last weekend, so you go to the fridge to take it out. But then you realize…you don’t want to deal with the hassle of reheating it in the oven. Don’t worry my friend, because I’m about to show you how to reheat your Costco rotisserie chicken in the microwave with ease!
In this guide, I will cover everything you need to know about reheating rotisserie chicken in the microwave. First, I’ll discuss how long it takes to reheat rotisserie chicken in the microwave, along with some tips for ensuring that it is fully cooked and evenly heated. Then I’ll share some alternative methods for reheating rotisserie chicken.
Finally, I’ll provide some suggestions for serving rotisserie chicken with other dishes and recipes. So are you ready to learn how to reheat Costco rotisserie chicken in the microwave? Let’s get started!
Can You Reheat Costco Rotisserie Chicken in the Microwave?
Yes, you can use the microwave to reheat Costco rotisserie chicken. Compared to other methods, such as reheating in the oven or on the stovetop, the microwave is one of the quickest and easiest ways to reheat your chicken. And since most people have a microwave in their kitchens, it’s also a convenient option.
However, there is a downside to using the microwave. Because of the way microwave ovens work, the chicken has a higher chance of drying out or becoming rubbery. To avoid this,, you can try adding a bit of moisture before reheating. You can use a small amount of water or chicken broth, or even a drizzle of olive oil.
In addition, you also want to cover your chicken with damp paper towels while it is in the microwave. This will help to trap moisture, which will help to keep your chicken juicy and tender.
If you are looking for a crispier crust, you may want to consider using a microwave crisper pan. Although you won’t get the same results as the rotisserie chicken oven, this pan will help to create a nice, crispy skin on your chicken.
How Long Does It Take to Reheat Rotisserie Chicken in The Microwave?
The amount of time it takes to reheat rotisserie chicken in the microwave will depend on a few different factors, such as the power of your microwave, and your cooking preferences. On average, it should take about 2 minutes to fully reheat the chicken.
For this post, I use the 900-watt microwave. If your microwave has a lower or significantly higher wattage, you may need to adjust the reheating time accordingly. Also, if you use a microwave crisper pan, you may need to add a few extra minutes, as you need to preheat the pan before reheating.
If after 2 minutes your chicken still isn’t at the desired temperature, you should continue reheating in 30-second increments until it is fully heated.
While reheating your rotisserie chicken in the microwave, you should be sure to check the temperature regularly. The chicken should be at least 165°F to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
How to Reheat Rotisserie Chicken from Costco in the Microwave
Now that you understand the basics of reheating your rotisserie chicken in the microwave, let’s go over some specific steps for doing so.
- Separate the chicken from the bones and cut it into smaller pieces. This will help the chicken to heat up more quickly and evenly in the microwave.
- Transfer the chicken to a microwave-safe plate or tray, making sure that it is big enough to hold the entire piece of chicken.
- Add 1 tbsp of water or chicken broth to the dish, then cover it tightly with a layer of damp paper towels.
- Place the dish in your microwave, and reheat for 2 minutes.
- After 2 minutes, check the temperature of your chicken to see if it is at least 165°F. If not, continue reheating in 30-second increments until it is fully heated.
- When you’re done, carefully remove the plate from the microwave to avoid any burns.
- Allow the chicken to cool down a bit before serving.
If you use a microwave crisper pan, follow the same steps, but preheat the pan for 3 minutes or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What Are Some Tips for Reheating Rotisserie Chicken in a Microwave?
Here are a few tips for reheating your rotisserie chicken in the microwave:
Transfer The Chicken To The Microwave Safe Plate
If you are reheating your chicken in the microwave, it is important to transfer it to a microwave-safe plate or dish. This will help to prevent any accidents, as well as ensure that the chicken heats up evenly and efficiently.
Add 1 or 2 Tbsp of Liquid
Reheating your chicken in the microwave can often result in a dry or rubbery texture, which is not ideal. One way to help combat this is by adding a small amount of liquid, such as water or chicken broth. This will help the chicken to stay moist and tender.
Also read: Is it possible to warm up chicken broth in the microwave and what is the method?
Make Sure It Reaches an Internal Temperature of 165°F
To prevent foodborne illness, you need to be sure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or higher. You can do this by inserting a meat thermometer into several different pieces of chicken.
How to Store Rotisserie Chicken Leftovers
If you have any leftover rotisserie chicken, it is best to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Properly stored, it should last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
You can also freeze cooked rotisserie chicken for up to 3 months in the freezer. To freeze your chicken, simply transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and place it in the freezer.
When you are ready to eat your chicken, thaw it out in the refrigerator overnight or put it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until it is fully thawed. After fully thawed, you can reheat your rotisserie chicken in the microwave, oven, or stovetop as desired.
Whichever method of reheating you choose, be sure to check your chicken’s condition before reheating to make sure that it is still safe to eat. If you see any signs of spoilage or mold, discard the chicken immediately. Eating spoiled chicken can potentially cause foodborne illnesses like salmonella, so it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Alternative Methods for Reheating Rotisserie Chicken
In addition to reheating your chicken in the microwave, there are a few other methods that you may want to try. Some popular alternatives include reheating the chicken in the oven, using an air fryer, or heating it on the stovetop.
Each of these methods has its own unique pros and cons, so it is important to consider your individual preferences and the size of the chicken pieces before choosing a reheating method.
For example, using the oven is a great option if you want to bring your chicken back to life just like it was fresh out of the rotisserie oven. The con is that this method takes longer, typically upwards of 25 minutes.
Another popular option is to use an air fryer. This method will give you some very crispy chicken skin without the need for added oils or fats. However, not all people have an air fryer at home, so this option might not be available to everyone.
Finally, you can also reheat your chicken on the stovetop. This method is quick and easy, but can also be a bit messy if you are not careful. Also, you won’t get the crispy skin back if you choose this method.
What to Serve with Rotisserie Chicken
Once you have your chicken reheated to perfection, the next step is deciding what to serve with it. Some of my favorite side dishes to pair with rotisserie chicken include:
1. Mashed Potatoes
There’s nothing quite as classic as rotisserie chicken and mashed potatoes. The savory flavors of the chicken go perfectly with the creamy, comforting texture of the potatoes. Plus, mashed potatoes are easy to make and can be dressed up or down depending on your preference.
2. Mashed Cauliflower
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower is a great option. It has a similar texture but is packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamin C. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables!
3. Roasted Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a fall favorite for a reason! When paired with rotisserie chicken, it makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken, and you’ll love the colorful presentation on your plate.
4. Garlic Rice
Looking for something a little different? Try serving rotisserie chicken with garlic rice! The rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken, and the garlic gives it a flavorful kick. Plus, it’s an easy dish to whip up if you’re short on time.
5. Grilled Corn
Summertime is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some fresh corn on the cob! This side dish is sweet, crunchy, and pairs perfectly with juicy rotisserie chicken. Just be sure to shuck your corn before grilling for the best results!
Conclusion
And that’s how you reheat Costco rotisserie chicken in the microwave! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or trying to save some leftovers for later, this is a great way to enjoy your chicken again. Just be sure to follow all the steps and tips that I’ve discussed, and you should be able to enjoy a delicious, juicy piece of chicken every time.
