Use the cold-water method: keep chicken in a sealed leakproof bag and submerge it in cold water
Change the water every 30 minutes
Separate pieces if possible for faster thawing
Use the microwave defrost setting only if you will cook the chicken immediately
Rotate and flip the chicken during microwave thawing for even results
Cook chicken right after thawing in the microwave
Thaw smaller cuts faster than whole chickens
Never thaw chicken on the counter
Do not use hot water to thaw chicken
Plan ahead and thaw in the refrigerator if speed is not critical