Title: How To Reheat KFC Chicken Pot Pie: The Best Way
If you're a fan of KFC's famous pot pie, you know that one serving is never enough. Whether you're enjoying a savory chicken pot pie for dinner or saving leftovers for the next day, reheating it can be a bit tricky. You don't want to end up with a soggy mess or a burnt crust, but you also want to make sure the chicken filling is heated through. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the best way to reheat KFC chicken pot pie to ensure that it remains delicious and crispy. We'll cover different methods, tips, and tricks to achieve the best results. So let's dig in!
Why KFC Pot Pie?
Before we dive into the reheating process, let's talk about why KFC's chicken pot pie is worth the extra effort. This classic chicken pot pie is made with a flaky crust, filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. It's a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it's a great option for a quick and filling meal, especially when you're craving some comfort food. So whether you're enjoying it as a single portion or sharing it with friends and family, reheating it to perfection is essential.
Food Safety First
Before we get into the different methods of reheating KFC chicken pot pie, it's important to mention food safety. According to the USDA, the "danger zone" for cooked food is between 40°F and 140°F. This is the temperature range where bacteria can grow rapidly, potentially causing foodborne illnesses. So it's crucial to make sure the internal temperature of the chicken pot pie reaches at least 165°F before consuming it. This can be checked using a food thermometer.
Different Methods to Reheat KFC Chicken Pot Pie
1. Microwave Method
The most common and quickest way to reheat leftover chicken pot pie is by using the microwave. However, this method can result in a soggy crust and unevenly heated filling if not done correctly. Here's how to do it the right way:
- Place the leftover pot pie on a microwave-safe plate or dish.
- Cover it with a paper towel to prevent the crust from becoming too moist.
- Microwave on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If it hasn't reached 165°F, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before enjoying.
While this method is quick and easy, it's not the best option for achieving crispy crust and evenly heated filling.
2. Toaster Oven Method
Using a toaster oven is a great way to reheat chicken pot pie, especially if you want to achieve a crispy crust. Here's how to do it:
- Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F.
- Place the leftover pot pie on a baking sheet or an oven-safe dish.
- Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pie.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If it hasn't reached 165°F, continue baking for a few more minutes.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Using a toaster oven is a simple and easy way to reheat KFC chicken pot pie, and it results in a crispy texture with a warm and creamy filling.
3. Oven Method
If you have a conventional oven, this method is a great way to reheat KFC chicken pot pie while maintaining its flaky crust. Here's how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the leftover pot pie on a baking sheet or an oven-safe dish.
- Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pie.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If it hasn't reached 165°F, continue baking for a few more minutes.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Using an oven is a good idea if you're reheating a whole pie or multiple servings. It's also a great option for frozen chicken pot pies.
4. Air Fryer Method
If you have an air fryer, this method is a great way to reheat smaller portions of chicken pot pie. The hot air in the air fryer results in a crispy crust, making it a popular choice for reheating a variety of foods. Here's how to do it:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Place the leftover pot pie in an air fryer basket.
- Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Air fry for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the pie.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If it hasn't reached 165°F, continue air frying for a few more minutes.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
The air fryer method is a quick and easy way to achieve a crispy crust and warm filling. It's also a great option for smaller portions and frozen chicken pot pies.
5. Stovetop Method
Another way to reheat KFC chicken pot pie is by using a stovetop. This method is popular for frozen pot pies, but it can also be used for reheating leftovers. Here's how to do it:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of vegetable oil.
- Place the leftover pot pie in the skillet and cover it with a lid.
- Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the pie.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If it hasn't reached 165°F, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Once the crust is golden brown, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
The stovetop method results in a crispy crust and a warm and creamy filling, making it a great way to reheat KFC chicken pot pie.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
1. Use Aluminum Foil
Covering the edges of the crust with aluminum foil when reheating in the oven or air fryer can prevent burning and result in a perfectly golden crust.
2. Let it Reach Room Temperature
Before reheating KFC chicken pot pie, it's best to let it reach room temperature. This ensures that the pie is reheated evenly and prevents cold spots in the filling.
3. Use a Microwave-Safe Dish
When reheating in the microwave, make sure to use a microwave-safe dish or plate. This prevents any potential harm to your dish and ensures that it heats up evenly.
4. Rest Before Serving
Letting the reheated chicken pot pie rest for a few minutes allows the filling to settle and prevents any burns from the hot filling.
5. Use a Food Thermometer
To ensure that the internal temperature of the pot pie reaches 165°F, use a food thermometer. This also prevents you from overcooking and drying out the pie.
6. Store in an Airtight Container
To maintain the best quality of your leftover chicken pot pie, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This prevents it from drying out and keeps it fresh.
7. Reheat in Smaller Portions
If you're only reheating a single portion of chicken pot pie, it's best to cut it into smaller pieces. This allows for even reheating and ensures that the crust doesn't become soggy.
8. Use a Cooking Time Chart
Different methods and serving sizes may require different cooking times. Use a cooking time chart for the best results when reheating KFC chicken pot pie.
New Recipes to Try with Leftover Chicken Pot Pie
If you happen to have some leftover chicken pot pie, here are some delicious recipes you can try:
1. Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Use your leftover pot pie to make a hearty and creamy soup. Simply chop the pie into smaller pieces and add it to a pot with some chicken broth, vegetables, and cream. Let it simmer until heated through, and enjoy a tasty twist on a classic chicken pot pie.
2. Chicken Pot Pie Quesadilla
Turn your leftover pot pie into a crispy and cheesy quesadilla. Remove the filling from the crust and spread it on a tortilla with some shredded cheese. Fold it in half and cook it on a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
3. Chicken Pot Pie Empanadas
Use your leftover pot pie filling to make savory and flaky empanadas. Simply fill empanada dough with the chicken filling, fold it over, and seal the edges. Bake them in the oven until golden brown and enjoy a tasty snack or appetizer.
Conclusion
Reheating KFC chicken pot pie may seem like a daunting task, but with the right method, it can be done perfectly. Whether you're using a microwave, oven, air fryer, or stovetop, make sure to follow the tips and tricks mentioned in this blog post for the best results. And don't be afraid to get creative with your leftover pot pie by trying out new recipes. With these easy steps, you can enjoy a perfectly reheated and delicious pot pie every time.
