How long freeze chicken

You Might Also Like. Enter your email. You're on your way Just a few more details. First Name. Last Name. Even though most raw chicken is sold in plastic wrapped containers, this packaging isn't best for the freezer and can cause freezer burn.

Wrap the packaged chicken with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil, or remove it from the packaging don't wash it! Raw chicken can last indefinitely in the freezer, if stored properly, but the USDA suggests using it within a year if the chicken is whole, and within nine months if the chicken has been cut into parts. Never put frozen meat on the kitchen counter to thaw. Instead, try one of these methods for thawing frozen chicken.

The safest way to defrost frozen raw chicken is to transfer your frozen poultry to the refrigerator place the package of raw chicken in a rimmed container or bowl to catch any drips. Depending on the size, you may need at least 24 hours so plan ahead and factor in thawing time to your meal prep.

You can also remove the chicken from its packaging and transfer to a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing the bag. An unopened vacuum-sealed package can be stored as is. According to the USDA, there are three ways to defrost frozen chicken. The safest and most recommended method is the refrigerator method, though it also involves some planning ahead. To defrost using your fridge, simply transfer your wrapped frozen chicken from your freezer to your fridge at least 24 hours before eating.

Once thawed, your chicken can remain in the fridge for another day or two before cooking. It can also be refrozen before eating, though the quality may diminish a bit. Another way to defrost your meat is with the cold water method, which is much quicker but requires more attention. To use this method, fill a large bowl with cold water and submerge your frozen chicken, keeping it in a leak-proof package.

Small packages can defrost in as little as an hour, while a three- to four-pound whole chicken may take two to three hours.

Sidoti explains that it's the process that occurs when the chicken is exposed to air, undergoing dehydration. Foods that have experienced freezer burn are safe to eat , but they likely won't taste as good. I suggest you add another layer of protection by wrapping the package in aluminum foil. Got all of that down?