Chicken is a versatile and healthy protein that is enjoyed worldwide. Having cooked chicken breasts on hand can be a real time-saver when putting together quick meals Luckily, cooked chicken breasts freeze beautifully when stored properly.
Freezing cooked chicken breasts allows you to:
- Save time by preparing chicken in advance
- Reduce food waste from leftovers and bulk cooking
- Always have a high-protein ingredient ready-to-use
Follow these simple steps for freezing cooked chicken breasts successfully every time.
Step 1: Allow Chicken to Cool Completely
Before freezing chicken, it’s important to let it cool to room temperature. This usually takes one to two hours. Cooling keeps extra moisture from turning into ice crystals during freezing, which can ruin the texture.
- After cooking, transfer chicken breasts to a clean plate or pan in a single layer. Avoid stacking warm chicken directly on top of each other.
- Once chicken reaches room temperature, it is ready for freezing.
Step 2: Portion Chicken Breasts
Cut cooked chicken breasts into smaller portions based on your intended use.
Some common portion sizes include
- 1 chicken breast
- 1/2 chicken breast
- 2-3 oz chunks or slices
Portioning chicken makes it easier to:
- Freeze chicken more quickly
- Thaw only what you need later
- Avoid waste from large frozen blocks
Step 3: Package Chicken Portions
Package each portion individually in freezer-safe materials like plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or freezer bags. Make sure to remove any excess air before sealing. This prevents freezer burn which negatively affects taste and texture over time.
Step 4: Label and Date Packages
Clearly label each package with the contents and freeze date. This allows you to track how long chicken has been stored.
Move older packages to the front and use them first. This is called “first in, first out.”
Step 5: Freeze Chicken Immediately
Lay the wrapped chicken pieces out in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray, and freeze them right away. Freezing chicken in a single layer speeds up the freezing process and keeps the pieces from sticking together.
Once chicken is completely frozen, packages can be stacked together more closely. Store chicken in the coldest part of the freezer, ideally at 0°F or below.
Step 6: Use Frozen Chicken Within 4 Months
For best quality, use frozen cooked chicken breasts within 4 months. Frozen chicken remains safe to eat for longer, but the texture declines over time.
If you want to save time, avoid waste, and get delicious results every time you freeze cooked chicken breasts, follow these steps!
Frequently Asked Questions About Freezing Cooked Chicken Breasts
Freezing cooked chicken breasts is simple when you follow a few guidelines. Here are answers to some common questions:
Can I freeze chicken breasts that were already frozen before?
Previously frozen raw chicken can be safely cooked and frozen again. However, do not refreeze cooked chicken that has already been frozen and thawed.
How long does cooked frozen chicken last in the freezer?
Cooked frozen chicken lasts for 3-4 months before quality starts to decline. It remains safe for approximately 4-6 months, according to USDA guidelines.
Can I freeze chicken breasts with marinades or sauces?
Yes, chicken can be frozen with marinades or sauces for added flavor. Make sure sauces completely cover the chicken to prevent freezer burn.
Does freezing change the texture of cooked chicken?
Freezing can slightly alter the texture of cooked chicken. Thaw frozen chicken slowly in the fridge overnight to best maintain moisture and texture.
Is it safe to eat cooked chicken with freezer burn?
While not dangerous, freezer burn can negatively affect the taste and texture of chicken. Trim any dried or damaged portions before eating frozen chicken.
How should I thaw frozen cooked chicken breasts?
Thaw frozen chicken slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Microwaving or cold water thawing are faster but can alter texture and create hot/cold spots.
Can I refreeze thawed cooked chicken?
Do not refreeze thawed cooked chicken. Refreezing increases risk of bacterial growth. Cooked chicken should only be frozen once after initial cooking.
How long does it take to thaw chicken in the fridge?
On average, it takes about 24 hours to thaw frozen chicken breasts in the refrigerator. Larger pieces or very cold freezers may take longer.
Can I freeze cooked chicken with seasoning or breading?
Yes, chicken can be frozen with any seasonings, marinades, breading or coatings. The flavor will continue to permeate the chicken as it thaws.
Following proper methods for freezing and thawing cooked chicken breasts makes it easy to enjoy delicious chicken anytime. Proper freezing maintains safety and quality while reducing waste.
How to defrost cooked chicken
Defrosting cooked chicken safely is crucial to maintain its flavour and texture while avoiding the risk of bacterial growth.
Guide to frozen chicken
Chicken is a firm favourite in households across the UK thanks to its versatility, cost, flavour and health benefits. If you have leftover chicken or are preparing meals for the week ahead, freezing cooked chicken is a great way to get your protein fix without scrimping on taste.