How Long Can Chicken Sit Out and Safely Defrost?

Learn how long chicken can sit out and the safest ways to defrost it to prevent bacteria growth.

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Chicken can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). For defrosting, it is safest to thaw chicken in the refrigerator, which can take about 24 hours depending on size. Never defrost chicken on the counter to avoid bacteria growth.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the safest way to thaw chicken? The safest way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight.
  2. Can chicken be left out overnight? No, chicken should not be left out overnight as it can lead to bacterial growth.
  3. What temperature is considered room temperature? Room temperature is generally considered to be around 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C).
  4. How long can chicken sit out at room temperature? Chicken can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours, or 1 hour if it's above 90°F (32°C).

Watch More

For more information on cooking chicken safely, check out our videos on food storage tips and best practices for cooking poultry.

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