Thawing guide
How to thaw chicken in a microwave
Microwave-thawed raw chicken must be cooked immediately after thawing, then checked at 165°F internally.
U.S. home food-safety guidance.Check the source and scope
What to do
- Use the oven’s defrost program and a microwave-safe dish; follow the model and food-package instructions.
- Pause to separate or turn pieces as they loosen; remove packaging that the instructions say is not microwave-safe.
- Transfer straight to cooking and test the thickest areas. Fully cook before any refreezing.
Conditions and limits
- Microwave thawing can begin cooking some edges while the middle stays icy.
- Do not refrigerate partially warmed raw chicken for later cooking.
Source and scope
Primary reference: USDA FSIS Chicken from Farm to Table. Equipment-specific steps and quality suggestions are practical guidance; check the appliance or product instructions for your model. How this site uses sources.