Can You Refreeze Chicken?

Found yourself with a surplus of thawed chicken and don’t know what to do with it? Wondering, can you refreeze chicken? This is a common question, and you might be surprised by the answer.

Let’s debunk the myth that chicken, once thawed, cannot be refrozen. In this article, we will delve into the subject of refreezing chicken, providing key information and guidance to ensure that you handle your chicken safely. So, let’s dive in!

What Does Refreezing Chicken Mean?

Refreezing chicken refers to the process of freezing chicken that has previously been thawed, then placed back in the freezer. This often happens when you’ve taken out more chicken than you need from the freezer, or perhaps your plans changed after thawing the chicken. The key point to remember is that while refreezing chicken is possible, it’s not always recommended due to certain safety and quality factors.

Key Factors to Consider Before Refreezing Chicken

Before you decide to refreeze your thawed chicken, you should consider the following:

• Temperature: Safely refreezing chicken is heavily dependent on temperature control. Research warns against thawing chicken at room temperature or any location above 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) to avoid bacterial growth. Once you’ve thawed the chicken in the fridge or microwave, it’s safe to refreeze as long as the temperature has been consistently below 5 degrees Celsius. Keep in mind, though, refreezing may alter the chicken’s texture and taste, hence it’s better to limit refreezing to once for optimal quality.
• Time: Timing is essential when it comes to refreezing chicken. It’s safest to refreeze chicken shortly after thawing if it has been safely thawed in the fridge. Delaying refreezing may promote bacterial growth, leading to potential foodborne illnesses. If the chicken has been thawed in the fridge for more than two days, it’s safer to cook it before refreezing.
• Intended Use: If you intend to thoroughly cook the chicken to a temperature that eradicates harmful bacteria (165°F or 74°C), it may be safe to refreeze. However, if you’re planning to use the chicken in dishes that won’t reach these cooking temperatures, like salads or sandwiches, avoid refreezing.

Potential Risks of Refreezing Chicken

Refreezing chicken does carry certain risks:

• Bacterial Growth: Thawing chicken can reactivate dormant bacteria, which will proliferate rapidly if the chicken is kept between 40°F to 140°F (4°C to 60°C) – known as the danger zone. If you refreeze the chicken without cooking it thoroughly, these bacteria may survive, leading to potential food poisoning.
• Loss of Texture and Flavor: Refreezing chicken may cause a decline in its texture and flavor due to moisture loss during the thawing process. The more frequently chicken is thawed and refrozen, the drier and tougher it becomes.
• Decreased Nutritional Value: Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can lead to a decrease in the chicken’s nutritional value. Certain vitamins and nutrients may get lost during freezing and thawing, which may further decrease with refreezing.

Guidelines for Proper Food Handling

To safely refreeze chicken, you should follow these guidelines:

• Safe Thawing: Always thaw chicken in the fridge for over 24 hours or up to two days depending on the size, or using the cold water method, changing the water every 30 minutes.
• Use a Food Thermometer: A food thermometer ensures that food is cooked to a safe minimum internal temperature, eliminating harmful bacteria.
• Proper Storage: Raw chicken should be stored in the refrigerator below 5°C (41°F) and consumed within two days, while cooked chicken can be stored for up to three to four days. Proper packaging is vital for preventing contamination and maintaining quality.

Steps to Refreeze Chicken Safely

If you decide to refreeze your chicken, follow these steps:

• Inspect the Chicken: Check the chicken for any signs of spoilage or contamination. Any discoloration, foul odors, or slimy texture should be a red flag.
• Re-package the Chicken: Remove the chicken from its original packaging to prevent freezer burn and contamination. Rinse, dry, and place it in a new moisture-proof container or freezer bag before returning it to the freezer.

When to Avoid Refreezing Chicken

Avoid refreezing chicken if it has been left out for longer than two hours at room temperature, as bacteria can rapidly grow in this environment. Similarly, refreezing already cooked chicken is not advisable as it can further deteriorate its texture and flavor.