Can you freeze chicken if it has started thawing?

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: When chicken thaws, bacteria can begin to multiply rapidly. Refreezing doesn't kill these bacteria; it just slows down their growth.

* Food Safety Risk: Consuming refrozen thawed chicken increases the risk of foodborne illness. This is because bacteria can survive and even thrive in the partially thawed meat, leading to illness.

What to do instead:

* Cook it immediately: If chicken has started thawing, the safest option is to cook it immediately.

* Keep it refrigerated: If you can't cook it right away, place it back in the refrigerator to continue thawing. Do not let it sit out at room temperature for extended periods.

* Discard if unsafe: If the chicken has been at room temperature for more than two hours (or one hour in temperatures above 90°F), it's best to discard it.

Always remember: Food safety is crucial! It's better to err on the side of caution and avoid refreezing thawed chicken.