First things first, never defrost chicken at room temperature. Not only is it unsafe, but it can also cause the chicken to develop harmful bacteria. Instead, there are three safe ways to defrost chicken:
1. In the fridge
This is the safest and easiest way to defrost chicken. Simply place the chicken in a container or on a plate and place it in the fridge overnight. It will take a bit longer, but it ensures that the chicken stays at a safe temperature and doesn’t spoil. Make sure to keep the chicken in its original packaging to prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods.
2. In cold water
If you need to defrost chicken quickly, you can use the cold water method. Place the chicken in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure that the chicken stays cold and to speed up the defrosting process. This method can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the chicken.
3. In the microwave
This method is the quickest, but can also be the trickiest. If you’re going to use the microwave method, make sure to follow the instructions carefully. The chicken needs to be placed on a microwave-safe dish and you should use the defrost setting, not the regular cooking setting. If you’re not careful, the chicken can start to cook on the edges, leaving the middle still frozen.
Once the chicken is defrosted, it’s important to handle it properly to prevent any contamination. Always wash your hands before and after handling chicken, and make sure to clean any surfaces that the chicken has touched.
If you’re not cooking the chicken right away, it’s best to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Raw chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to two days before it needs to be cooked.
Remember, defrosting chicken is important to ensure that it’s cooked properly and safely. Always use one of the three safe methods, and handle the chicken carefully to prevent any contamination. With these tips in mind, you’ll never be stuck with a frozen chicken again.