Is It Safe to Refrigerate Defrosted Chicken After Thawing in Water?

Learn why you shouldn't refrigerate defrosted chicken thawed in water and tips for safe cooking.

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No, you should not put defrosted chicken back in the fridge if it was defrosted in water. This method promotes bacterial growth. Always cook defrosted chicken immediately to ensure food safety and prevent any risk of foodborne illness.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the best way to thaw chicken? The safest way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight, in cold water, or in the microwave.
  2. How long can you leave defrosted chicken out? Defrosted chicken should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid bacterial growth.
  3. Can you refreeze chicken after it has been thawed? Yes, you can refreeze chicken if it has been thawed in the refrigerator, but it's not recommended if it was thawed in water or microwave.
  4. What temperature should chicken be cooked to? Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

Watch More

For more food safety tips and cooking advice, check out our related videos on how to safely thaw chicken and other meats to avoid foodborne illnesses.

  1. Can You Refrigerate Defrosted Chicken Safely? Learn if you can put defrosted chicken back in the fridge and ensure food safety.
  2. Is It Safe to Cook and Refreeze Defrosted Chicken? Learn if defrosted chicken can be cooked and refrozen safely, plus essential food handling tips.