If you’re like most people, you probably have leftover marinated chicken in your fridge right now. But can you freeze it? The answer may surprise you.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze marinated chicken. The impact on taste and texture may be minimal, but it’s best to try it out first before freezing a large batch. The marinade will help keep the chicken moist, so it may not last as long in the freezer as un-marinated chicken.
Can You Freeze Marinated Chicken?
Can you freeze marinated chicken? The answer is yes, but there are some things to consider. Marinating chicken can add flavor and juiciness to the meat, but freezing it will impact the taste and texture. Freezing also has the potential to reduce the shelf life of the chicken.
How To Freeze Marinated Chicken?
There are a few simple steps to follow in order to freeze marinated chicken. First, make sure that the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. If it is not, the chicken may be cooked unevenly. Second, cook the chicken as you normally would. Finally, let the chicken cool completely before freezing. To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to two months.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Marinated Chicken
There are a few important steps to take when freezing marinated chicken. First, make sure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. If it is not, the chicken may be raw in the center. Second, cook the chicken thoroughly to ensure that any bacteria present is killed. Finally, do not re-freeze the chicken after it has been cooked. This can cause bacteria to grow and may make you sick.
How To Thaw Frozen Marinated Chicken
Thawing frozen Marinated Chicken is very easy. You can use either a microwave or the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Method: Place the frozen chicken in a single layer on a plate. Cover with plastic wrap and then refrigerate for 8 to 10 hours.
Microwave Method: Place the frozen chicken in a microwavable dish. Cook on high for 3 to 4 minutes or until thawed.
How Long Does Marinated Chicken Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
The length of time that chicken stays fresh outside at room temperature depends on a variety of factors, including the type of marinade used. Generally speaking, however, chicken will only stay fresh for a few hours outside at room temperature.
If you are looking to store chicken for an extended period of time, it is best to place it in the fridge or freezer. In fact, if you freeze chicken properly, it can last for up to six months. However, make sure to always follow the instructions on the packaging when freezing food.
How Long Does Marinated Chicken Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
The amount of time that chicken lasts in the fridge depends on how long it was marinated for, and what kind of marinade was used.
If the chicken was only marinated for a short period of time, like 30 minutes or so, then it will last around 3-4 days in the fridge. However, if the chicken was marinated for a longer period of time, like 12 hours or more, then it will only last around 2 days in the fridge.
As a general rule of thumb, any poultry or meat that has been marinated should be consumed within 3-4 days after it has been prepared. That being said, if you are unsure about how long a particular food item has been stored
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Marinated Chicken?
Ideas, list:
Put it in a wrap with some avocado, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Make a quick chicken stir-fry with veggies.
Add it to a salad or bowl with some rice or quinoa and lots of veggies.
Put it in a sandwich with some cheese, roasted red peppers, and greens.
Make a simple chicken soup with some noodles or rice.
Use it to make tacos or burritos with all your favorite toppings.
Throw it into some pasta sauce for an easy dinner.
Do a quick “fried” rice dish with eggs and veggies.