How long does chicken take to defrost?

It depends on the size and thickness of the chicken, as well as the method you use for defrosting. Here's a general guide:

Refrigerator:

* Whole chicken (3-4 lbs): 1-2 days

* Chicken parts (breasts, thighs, legs): 12-24 hours

Cold water:

* Whole chicken (3-4 lbs): 3-4 hours

* Chicken parts (breasts, thighs, legs): 1-2 hours

Microwave:

* Chicken parts (breasts, thighs, legs): This method is not recommended as it can cook the outside of the chicken while the inside remains frozen.

Important notes:

* Always defrost chicken in the refrigerator or in cold water. Never defrost at room temperature as this can encourage bacterial growth.

* Ensure that the chicken is completely thawed before cooking.

* Do not refreeze thawed chicken.

For the safest defrosting:

* Place the chicken on a plate or in a container in the refrigerator to catch any drips.

* Change the cold water every 30 minutes to ensure it stays cold.

* Always cook chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).