Fish and chips are a British classic, and at Zan Fish, we’re passionate about delivering this iconic dish to our customers, hot and fresh. But what happens when you’ve got leftovers? We get a lot of customers asking whether they can reheat fish and chips, here’s our top tips on safely reheating your fish and chips, so it tastes just as good the second time around…
The best ways to reheat fish and chips
When it comes to understanding whether you can reheat fish and chips, there’s 3 key ways we recommend…
1. Reheating using an air fryer
An air fryer is one of the best ways to reheat your fish and chips, because it restores that crispiness without adding extra oil.
How to reheat in an air fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 160–175°C
- Place the fish and chips in a single layer in the fryer basket
- Cook for 6–7 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Check the fish with a thermometer to ensure it’s at 63°C
2. Reheating using an oven
For larger portions or if you don’t have an air fryer, the oven is your next best bet.
How to reheat in an oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C
- Line a baking tray with foil and spread out your fish and chips
- Cook for 14–18 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Ensure the fish reaches 63°C
3. Reheating in a frying pan
If you’re after restaurant quality fish and chips, the frying pan can ensure unbeatable crispiness.
How to reheat in a pan:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat
- Add the fish and chips in a single layer
- Fry until they’re hot and golden brown, flipping occasionally
We’d recommend avoiding the microwave, as although it’s convenient and quick, it can leave your fish soggy and chips rubbery, which nobody wants.
Why does proper reheating matter?
Now you know how you can reheat fish and chips, it’s also important to understand why you need to know this information, and it's about more than just the taste. It’s also about food safety. According to the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA), improperly reheated food can lead to uneven heating and potential bacteria growth. To avoid this, always ensure your leftovers are stored in the fridge promptly and reheated to an internal temperature of 75°C.
At Zan Fish, every meal should be enjoyed fresh and full of flavour, even your leftovers. By following these tips, you’ll enjoy reheated fish and chips that are safe, delicious, and satisfyingly crispy. Order your Zan fish and chips today, and find your local shop.
FAQs about reheating fish and chips
1. How long can I keep leftover fish and chips in the fridge?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 2 days, according to the Food Standards Agency (FSA). If the fish or chips have an off smell, unusual color, or slimy texture before reheating, discard them. These are signs that the food has spoiled and isn’t safe to eat.
2. Can I reheat cooked fish?
Yes, you can reheat cooked fish, but it’s essential to do it properly to ensure safety and maintain the best texture and flavour.
3. Can I freeze fish and chips from the chip shop?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in cling film or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Allow the fish and chips to cool completely before freezing. Placing hot food in the freezer can raise the temperature and affect other stored items. Write the date of freezing on the container so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer.
4. How can I tell if my fish and chips are reheated safely?
Always check the internal temperature. The fish should reach 63°C to ensure it’s safe to eat. While chips don’t have a specific safety temperature, they should be hot and steaming throughout. Make sure both the fish and chips are reheated evenly. Flip or turn them halfway through the reheating process.
5. Can I reheat fish and chips twice?
No, it is not recommended to reheat fish and chips twice. Reheating food multiple times increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. This is especially important for fish and chips, as their texture and quality deteriorate with each reheating. Only reheat once you are ready to eat the leftovers.
6. What temperature should my reheated fish and chips be before eating?
Fish:
The fish should be reheated to an internal temperature of 63°C. This ensures that the fish is safely heated through and reaches a temperature that is both safe to eat and preserves its texture.
Chips:
While chips don’t have a specific temperature guideline like fish, they should be reheated to piping hot and crispy throughout. Typically, they should be heated to 75°C internally, or until you see steam coming off them and they are crispy on the outside.
