Chicken is a staple in many people’s diets, as well as cuisines all around the world. It’s so versatile, and can be used in a wide range of dishes and a variety of cooking methods.
However, before you cook chicken, you have to thaw it.
Although there are various ways to thaw chicken, some methods are better than others. Below we’ve listed the best ways to thaw chicken, and exactly how to do it!
How to Thaw Chicken
Refrigerator Method:
Thawing chicken in the fridge is our favorite method. It keep the chicken at a low enough temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria, and it’s easy and requires minimal effort.
Place the frozen chicken on a large plate, or in a baking dish, and place it in the fridge. Depending on the size of the chicken, this method can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.
Cold Water Method:
If you’re in a rush and need to defrost your chicken quickly, you can use the cold water method. However, it is crucial that you change the water every 30 minutes to ensure that the chicken stays at a safe temperature.
To thaw chicken using the cold water method, place the frozen chicken in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in a bowl of cold water. Ensure that there is enough water to cover the chicken completely. Change the water every 30 minutes until the chicken is thawed completely.
Microwave Method:
If you’re in a pinch and need to thaw chicken quickly, you can thaw chicken in a microwave, though it is the least preferred method. However, this method requires extra attention, as microwaving chicken can lead to uneven defrosting, which can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Many microwaves come with a defrost function, which allows you to thaw chicken based on its weight. If your microwave does not have this function, defrost it at low power for two to three minutes at a time.
Always flip the chicken over frequently when thawing in the microwave.
Cooking Frozen Chicken:
Although it is best to thaw chicken before cooking, frozen chicken can be baked or cooked on the stovetop without defrosting. However, cooking times will be longer than thawed chicken, which can result in dry or tough chicken.
When cooking frozen chicken, it is important to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are various ways to thaw chicken safely and effectively. While the refrigerator method is best, the cold water and microwave methods are also suitable in certain situations. By following these tips, you can ensure that your chicken is safe and delicious every time you cook it!
Once your chicken is thawed, here are some of our favorite chicken recipes!
How to Thaw Chicken
This guide for How to Thaw Chicken includes three methods that will have you cooking up a great meal in no time!
Ingredients
- frozen chicken
Instructions
- refrigerator method
- cold water method
- microwave method
Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
Get griddling! Try these Blackstone Recipes!
Never miss a recipe!
Join the GypsyPlate mailing list and get easy dinner recipes right in your mailbox. From homestyle comfort food to exotic dishes from around the world.
