Technique & guide
How to Keep Fried Chicken Crispy
Fresh fried chicken is crispiest when steam can escape instead of condensing against the crust.
Food-safety note: Keep raw chicken separate from ready-to-eat foods, marinate under refrigeration, and cook poultry to at least 165°F / 73.9°C as measured with a food thermometer. Hot-oil frying requires careful adult handling and suitable equipment.
Use a rack
Place cooked pieces on a wire rack over a sheet pan rather than stacking them. This keeps the bottom from sitting in trapped steam.
Do not cover while hot
Tightly covering very hot chicken traps moisture. If holding briefly, keep air circulation around the crust.
Reheat with dry heat
An oven or air fryer can restore some crispness to refrigerated leftovers. Reheat thoroughly and check the center.