The time it takes to defrost chicken depends on the method used and the size/cut of the chicken:
Refrigerator Thawing (Safest Method)
- Plan on about 10 hours per kilogram (or about 5 hours per pound) of chicken.
- For example, a 5-6 pound whole chicken takes approximately 24 hours to thaw.
- Chicken pieces like breasts or thighs typically take 12 to 24 hours.
- Whole chickens may require 2-3 days to fully thaw in the fridge.
- Keep the chicken wrapped and placed on a plate at the bottom of the fridge to avoid drips.
- Once thawed, cook within 1-2 days.
Cold Water Thawing (Faster)
- Place chicken in airtight packaging and submerge in cold water.
- Change water every 30 minutes to keep it cold.
- Takes about 2 hours per kilogram or 1 hour per pound.
- A whole chicken can take 2-3 hours; smaller pieces may thaw in 1 hour or less.
- Cook immediately after thawing.
Microwave Thawing (Quickest)
- Use the microwave’s defrost setting on low power (20-30%).
- Defrost time is about 10-15 minutes per kilogram or 8-10 minutes per pound.
- Rotate and check chicken frequently to avoid cooking edges.
- Cook immediately after thawing.
Unsafe Methods to Avoid
- Never thaw chicken at room temperature or in the oven due to bacterial growth risk.
Summary Table
Method| Time Estimate| Notes
---|---|---
Refrigerator| 10 hours/kg (5 hours/lb)| Safest, slowest; whole chicken 24+ hrs
Cold Water| 2 hours/kg (1 hour/lb)| Faster, requires water changes
Microwave| 10-15 mins/kg (8-10 mins/lb)| Fastest, cook immediately after
In practice, for typical chicken breasts or pieces, refrigerator thawing usually takes 12 to 24 hours , cold water thawing about 1 to 3 hours , and microwave thawing about 10 to 15 minutes per kilogram
