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How to Defrost Chicken Fast and Safely

By Pillsbury Kitchens
Updated October 8, 2024
A person seasoning raw chicken breasts with pepper on a cutting board.
Learn the quick and safe ways to defrost chicken so you can go from frozen to feasting in no time!

When it comes to last minute cooking, defrosting chicken often feels like a major hiccup. But we’ve got you covered with practical, efficient, and delish ways to get your chicken from frozen to ready-to-cook in no time. Whether you're in a last-minute dinner scramble or planning ahead, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the best methods to defrost chicken fast, ensuring every meal is a success.

The Microwave Method

For those moments when dinner needs to be on the table ASAP, the microwave method is your go-to. It's quick and relatively straightforward, albeit requiring a bit of attention:

  • Plate the Chicken: Use a microwave-safe dish and place your chicken pieces, ideally separated, on a dish. You'll place this in the center of the microwave uncovered and move on the the next step.
  • Select the Defrost Setting: Set your microwave to the defrost setting and use the suggested time per pound. Typically, this will be around 2-5 minutes per pound.
  • Check Frequently: Stop and check the chicken every 2 minutes. This helps prevent any parts from cooking prematurely.
  • Cook Immediately: Once defrosted, it's crucial to cook the chicken right away to ensure it's safe for your family. This prevents any bacterial growth that could occur if the chicken is left at room temperature after defrosting.

Safety Disclaimer: Defrosting chicken in the microwave can cause some parts of the meat to begin cooking during the process. If your chicken starts cooking during microwave defrosting, move it to the stove or oven immediately to ensure even cooking. To prevent bacterial growth and ensure food safety, you always want to cook the chicken immediately after defrosting. Never refreeze raw chicken that has been defrosted using the microwave method.

The Cold Water Method

If you have a bit more time, the cold water method is a reliable option that won't partially cook your chicken:

  • Seal it Up: Place your chicken in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent contamination.
  • Submerge in Cold Water: Place the bag in a bowl or sink filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold and ensure the chicken remains at a safe temperature.
  • Time Check: Most chicken will be fully thawed within an hour or two, depending on the size.

Addressing the Hot Water Debate

You might wonder, "Can you defrost chicken in hot water?" While it's tempting for its speed, this method can be risky. Here’s the scoop:

  • Pros: Quick thawing.
  • Cons: Increased risk of uneven thawing, prematurely cooking outer layers, and bacterial growth. Using hot water can lead to the chicken entering the "danger zone" (40°F to 140°F) where bacteria thrive, significantly increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Given these factors, we highly recommend steering clear of this method.

Checking for Full Defrost

How do you know if your chicken is ready to cook? Make sure the meat is pliable and can bend easily. This flexibility in the meat should also be consistent throughout, so confirm there are no remaining cold spots.

Ready for Recipes?

Once your chicken is defrosted, why not try a tasty stir-fry, a hearty traybake, or a comforting curry? Chicken is an extremely versatile meat which is why we always have some frozen and on hand. Check out our other recipes to make the most of your delicious defrosted chicken.

Find even more recommendations in our Try These Next section below or peek at our collection of Easy Chicken recipes.

Defrosting chicken doesn't have to be a hassle. With these methods and inspiration recipes in your cooking toolkit, you'll be whipping up tasty meals fast with less fuss and more fun.