Defrosting chicken safely keeps it out of the temperature range where bacteria multiply quickly, lowering the risk of foodborne illness. There are three reliable methods, and choosing the right one depends on how much time you have.
What you'll need
- Frozen chicken
- Refrigerator
- Bowl or leak-proof bag
- Cold water
- Microwave (optional)
Step by step
- Choose your method by timeThe refrigerator method is safest but slowest, the cold-water method is faster, and the microwave is quickest. Pick one based on when you plan to cook.
- Refrigerator methodPlace the chicken on a plate or tray to catch drips and leave it in the fridge. Small cuts thaw in a few hours, while a whole bird can take a day or more.
- Cold-water methodSeal the chicken in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Most packages thaw within an hour or two.
- Microwave methodUse the defrost setting and follow your microwave's guidance for weight. Cook the chicken right away afterward, since parts may begin to warm.
- Keep it cold and containedAlways keep raw chicken and its juices away from other foods and surfaces. Use a plate or sealed bag to prevent drips.
- Cook to a safe temperatureCook the thawed chicken until it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest point. Use a thermometer to confirm.
Handy tips
- Plan ahead and use the refrigerator method, which is the most forgiving and hands-off.
- Thawed chicken from the fridge can be refrozen if it is still cold and fresh, though texture may suffer.
- Label frozen chicken with the date so you use it within a few months.
Heads up
- Never thaw chicken on the counter at room temperature, since the outer surface warms into the range where bacteria multiply quickly while the inside is still frozen.
- Chicken thawed by the cold-water or microwave method should be cooked immediately, not stored.
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces that touch raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
FAQ
Can I defrost chicken on the counter?
No. Leaving chicken at room temperature lets the outer layer reach unsafe temperatures while the center is still frozen. Use the fridge, cold water, or microwave instead.
How long does chicken take to thaw in the fridge?
Small cuts often thaw in a few hours to overnight, while a whole chicken can take a full day or more. Plan ahead so you are not rushed.
Can I refreeze chicken after thawing?
Chicken thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen if it stayed cold, though the texture may change. Chicken thawed by cold water or microwave should be cooked before refreezing.