Can You Reheat Battered Fish?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA/NHS reheating guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, you can reheat battered fish — once only, until piping hot (75°C). Gentle, covered reheating keeps it from drying out.
What makes it safe (or not)
Reheating battered fish is safe under the standard rules: it must have been cooled within 2 hours of cooking, kept refrigerated, and be reheated to 75°C (165°F) throughout, once only. Fish is delicate, so gentle methods — a covered dish in the oven, or short microwave bursts — get it safely hot without turning it to rubber. If it smells at all off before reheating, bin it.
You can also check the calorie content of battered fish alongside its safety information.
How to reheat battered fish safely
- Take battered fish from the fridge (use within 2 days of cooking; sooner is better for quality).
- Cover it — a lidded dish with a spoonful of water keeps steam in.
- Reheat gently: Healthline suggests about 120°C wrapped in foil for 15–20 minutes (no foil if breaded), or short low-to-medium microwave bursts, turning once.
- Check the thickest part is piping hot — 75°C (165°F) — and the flesh flakes.
- Eat immediately; never reheat fish twice.
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Check Price →Common questions
Can you reheat battered fish in the microwave?
Yes — cover it, use medium power in short bursts, and check the thickest part is piping hot. The smell is stronger in a microwave but the safety is the same.
What is the best way to reheat battered fish?
Use a hot oven or an air fryer rather than the microwave, which makes anything crisp go soft. Spread it in a single layer and heat until piping hot through the middle (75°C), then eat it straight away.
Can you reheat battered fish twice?
No — once only, as with all reheated food. Portion before reheating so nothing goes back in the fridge.
Can you eat battered fish cold instead?
Yes — if it was cooked, cooled promptly and refrigerated, cold cooked battered fish within 2 days is fine (flaked into a salad, for example).
Why does reheated battered fish smell so strong?
Healthline and The Takeout both note that reheating fish, especially in the microwave, can leave a strong smell; neither explains why. It is a quality issue. Wrapping the fish in a foil or parchment pouch keeps the smell in, says The Takeout.
How long can I keep leftover battered fish before reheating?
Within 2 days in the fridge is the NHS/FSA advice for cooked leftovers (the US USDA allows 3–4 days). Cool it within 1–2 hours of cooking and keep the fridge at 5°C or below.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA/NHS reheating guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.