Defrost chicken in the refrigerator
Place the chicken on a plate or in a container to catch drips
Keep the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below
Allow about 24 hours for every 5 pounds of chicken
Defrost chicken in cold water if you need it faster
Seal the chicken in a leakproof bag before using cold water
Submerge the bag in cold water
Change the water every 30 minutes
Cook chicken immediately after cold water defrosting
Defrost chicken in the microwave only if you will cook it right away
Use the defrost setting on the microwave
Rotate and separate pieces during microwave defrosting
Cook chicken immediately after microwave defrosting
Never defrost chicken on the counter
Never use hot water to defrost chicken
Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw chicken
Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)