Welcome to all the busy weeknight warriors out there! We’ve all been there – rushing home after a long day at work, only to realize we forgot to defrost any meat for dinner. But fear not, because store bought rotisserie chicken is here to save the day. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, but what happens if you can’t eat it right away? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these simple tips on how to keep your store bought rotisserie chicken warm until dinner time. Say goodbye to cold meals and hello to a stress-free meal prep!
How to Keep Store Bought Rotisserie Chicken Warm Until Dinner
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and delicious option for a quick dinner, but what do you do if you purchase it early in the day or have to wait until later in the evening to serve it? No one wants to eat cold chicken for dinner, so it’s important to know how to keep your store bought rotisserie chicken warm until dinner time. With these simple tips, you can ensure that your chicken stays warm and juicy, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights.
1. Wrap it in Foil
The simplest way to keep your rotisserie chicken warm is to wrap it in foil after purchasing it from the store. This will help to retain the heat and moisture, preventing it from drying out while you wait for dinner. Be sure to wrap the entire chicken, including the bottom, so that no heat can escape.
2. Use a Slow Cooker
If you have a slow cooker at home, you can use it to keep your rotisserie chicken warm until dinner. Simply place the chicken in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting and cover with foil. This will keep the chicken at a safe temperature until you are ready to eat. Just be sure to check the temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer before serving to ensure it is at least 165°F.
3. Keep it in the Oven
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can also use your oven to keep your rotisserie chicken warm. Preheat your oven to 200°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil and place it in the oven until dinner time. Again, be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature before serving.
4. Wrap it in a Towel
Another simple way to keep your rotisserie chicken warm is to wrap it in a towel. This will help to retain the heat and moisture, just like foil, but without the need for an oven or slow cooker. Make sure the towel is clean and wrap the chicken tightly. You can then place it in a cooler or insulated bag to keep it warm until dinner.
5. Use a Warming Tray
If you have a warming tray or hot plate, you can use it to keep your rotisserie chicken warm until dinner. These appliances are specifically designed to keep food at a safe temperature and are a great option if you’re serving the chicken buffet-style. Just make sure to cover the chicken with foil to retain the heat and moisture.
6. Reheat in the Microwave
If you find that your rotisserie chicken has cooled down too much, you can quickly reheat it in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
7. Slice and Reheat on the Stove
If you prefer to reheat your chicken on the stovetop, you can do so by slicing the chicken and reheating it in a pan with a little bit of water or broth. This will help to retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken. Heat on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through.
8. Keep it Covered
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to keep your rotisserie chicken covered while it’s waiting to be served. Whether it’s in the oven, slow cooker, or wrapped in foil, covering it will help to retain the heat and moisture. This will ensure that your chicken stays warm and juicy until you’re ready to eat.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s important to store it properly to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Once the chicken has been cooked and served, it should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After dinner, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze your leftover chicken, make sure to do so within 2 hours of cooking it. Place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date. Frozen chicken can last up to 4 months, but for best quality, it’s recommended to use it within 2-3 months.
Final Thoughts
Having a store bought rotisserie chicken on hand is a great time-saver for busy weeknights. By using these simple tips, you can keep your chicken warm and delicious until dinner time. Just be sure to store any leftovers properly to avoid any food safety issues. With these methods, you can enjoy a hot and flavorful meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch. Bon appétit!
In conclusion, keeping store bought rotisserie chicken warm until dinner can be easily done with these simple tips. Whether you’re a busy parent or have a hectic schedule, these methods will ensure that your chicken stays warm and ready to eat when it’s time for dinner. From using kitchen appliances to creative hacks, there are various ways to keep your chicken from getting cold and losing its delicious flavor. So next time you buy a rotisserie chicken, remember these tips and enjoy a warm and hassle-free meal on busy weeknights.