HOW TO EASILY DEFROST CHICKEN IN THE MICROWAVE

IS IT SAFE TO DEFROST CHICKEN IN THE MICROWAVE?

It is safe to defrost chicken in the microwave as long as proper handling techniques are followed. Make sure to remove all packaging, place the chicken in a microwave-safe container, use the defrost setting on your microwave and flip or rotate the chicken every few minutes.

After using your microwave to defrost chicken, the USDA recommends fully cooking it right away in order to avoid exposure to the “danger zone,” a temperature range where bacteria can form on raw meat.

Additionally, if your frozen chicken has been sitting at room temperature for 20+ minutes, defrost it in the refrigerator or in a bowl of cold water instead of using the microwave.

HOW MANY MINUTES DOES IT TAKE TO DEFROST CHICKEN IN THE MICROWAVE?

Generally, it takes about 8-10 minutes per pound to fully thaw chicken in the microwave. However, defrosting times may vary due to the weight of the meat or the wattage of your microwave. As a best practice, regularly check the meat when defrosting chicken in the microwave, and be sure to remove it and cook it once it’s completely defrosted.

Utilize the Defrost function on your microwave and let your appliance do the work with this convenient setting. Many microwave models will ask you to input your type of meat and its weight. Maytag brand offers select microwaves with Sensor cooking options to help you keep your meal prep routine running smoothly.

CHICKEN MICROWAVE THAWING TIMES

As a rule of thumb, defrost chicken in the microwave for 8-10 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 1.5 lb chicken breast, it will take roughly 12-15 minutes to fully thaw in the microwave.

Be mindful that using the Defrost setting on many microwaves decreases the appliance’s power in order to thaw food without cooking it. If your microwave does not have this feature, reduce the power level by 20-30% of its maximum power. Check your owner’s manual for more information on how to adjust power levels.

Depending on your cut of meat and its weight, defrost times may vary. Use this chart to estimate how long it will take to thaw chicken in the microwave.

HOW TO THAW CHICKEN IN THE MICROWAVE

Using your microwave to thaw chicken can be done in four simple steps with proper handling and best practices. Remember to follow the instructions on the poultry packaging and consult your microwave owner’s manual for additional direction.

STEP 1: REMOVE PACKAGING

With clean hands, remove all packaging from the chicken.

STEP 2: USE THE RIGHT CONTAINER

Place your chicken in a microwave-safe container. Typically, glass or ceramic bowls work best for thawing.

STEP 3: USE THE DEFROST SETTING

Follow the Defrost setting prompts to enter the weight and food type (chicken), and let your microwave handle the rest. 

If your microwave does not have this setting, configure it to operate at a wattage of 20-30% its maximum power and allow for 8-10 minutes of defrost time per pound. This will help prevent your chicken from cooking during the defrosting process. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

STEP 4: FLIP AND ROTATE

Every few minutes, pause the microwave and rotate or flip the chicken to achieve a thorough thaw. This is especially helpful if your microwave doesn’t have a rotating plate.

STEP 5: REMOVE AND COOK

After your chicken is fully defrosted, promptly remove it from the microwave and cook it right away in order to help prevent bacterial growth.

Learn more about how microwaves work to help you tackle mealtime, along with cleaning tips to help you keep your microwave working at maximum performance.

HOW TO TELL WHEN CHICKEN IS PROPERLY DEFROSTED

Cut a small sliver in the thickest part of the chicken to check for ice crystals and hardness. If the chicken is soft to the touch and absent of ice, then it is likely thawed and ready to cook. If it still feels solid, continue defrosting. To properly defrost, make sure to follow best practices for defrosting times and weight. Generally, defrosting in the microwave for 8-10 minutes per pound in a microwave-safe dish is ideal.

Remember to promptly remove and cook your chicken after it is fully thawed.

WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO THAW CHICKEN QUICKLY?

Thawing chicken in the refrigerator or placing it in a bowl of cold water are alternative ways to defrost chicken. If your chicken has been sitting at room temperature for more than 20 minutes, it is recommended to use one of these thawing methods instead of a microwave.