Thawing a whole chicken

[smb985]

I have a question. I have a 5-6 pound chicken. We always thaw meat in the fridge first. Problem is that we will be out of town for a week before smoking the chicken. If we put the chicken in the fridge the day we leave and let it thaw, how long can I leave it thawed in the fridge before smoking it? If we put it in the fridge frozen on a friday morning and leave it there, am I still safe to smoke it a week later?

Steve

 

[Brokenhandle]

I would leave it frozen until you get back, I would think it's gonna thaw out too soon.

Ryan

 

[smb985]

I would leave it frozen until you get back, I would think it's gonna thaw out too soon.

Ryan

Thanks. I should be ok to put in the fridge when we get back. Wife thought it would be ok to leave in the fridge when we leave. Better safe than sorry.

 

[BrianGSDTexoma]

I thaw pretty much everything in sink full of water. Whole chicken might have to change water out once.

 

[smb985]

I thaw pretty much everything in sink full of water. Whole chicken might have to change water out once.

Thanks. I might have to do that if it is not completely thawed before brining.

 

[voyager 663rd]

A week is way too long as said. Thaw in frequently-changed cold water will do a quick job though.