Place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels, covered in plastic wrap. Place your chicken at the front of the bottom shelf while it defrosts to prevent excess juices from getting on other food in the refrigerator. If your chicken has already been unwrapped, place it in a pan or bowl so that the juices do not leak. [1] X Research source
Keep in mind that thawing a whole chicken in the refrigerator can take more than 24 hours. Plan accordingly. [3] X Research source
Check to see if your whole chicken is defrosted by placing your hand in the major cavity of the chicken. If there are ice crystals within the chicken, it needs to be defrosted for a longer period of time.
Store your thawed chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator. This will keep your chicken bacteria-free for a longer amount of time. [4] X Research source
Do not use hot water. Hot water will promote bacterial growth. [6] X Research source
If you are thawing a whole chicken, be prepared for it to take a bit longer. If your chicken is 3 pounds, it should be thawed for 3 or more hours.
Generally try to avoid defrosting a whole chicken in the microwave because there is more chance for your whole chicken to enter the ‘Danger Zone’. Microwaving a whole chicken also takes away from the nutritious and tasty aspects of the chicken.
Be careful to follow your microwave’s specific instructions and power levels to make sure that the chicken does not start to cook.
