Freezer burn occurs when food is exposed to air and moisture within the freezer. It can cause the food to become dehydrated, resulting in dry, discolored patches and a potential change in texture and taste. To minimize freezer burn and keep your chicken breast fresher, there are a few steps you can take:
Proper packaging: Using airtight packaging is crucial to protect your chicken breast from freezer burn. Ziplock bags are a popular option, but ensure they are properly sealed to prevent air and moisture from entering. Squeezing out excess air before sealing the bag can help create a better seal. Alternatively, you can use vacuum-sealed bags or freezer-safe containers designed to minimize air exposure.
Double wrapping: To provide an extra layer of protection, you can double-wrap your chicken breast. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in a ziplock bag before placing it in another ziplock bag or container.
Liquid submersion: Submerging chicken breast in water before freezing can help minimize air contact and reduce the risk of freezer burn. By freezing the chicken breast in a solid block of water, you create a barrier that prevents air from directly contacting the meat. However, this method may be less convenient as it requires thawing the chicken breast along with the block of ice before use.
Freezer organization: Proper freezer organization can help maintain the quality of your frozen food. Ensure that the freezer is set to the appropriate temperature (usually around -18°C or 0°F) and avoid overloading it, as overcrowding can restrict airflow and lead to uneven freezing.
While submerging chicken breast in water and freezing it as a solid block can potentially provide additional protection against freezer burn, it may not be significantly more effective than using airtight packaging alone. Properly sealed ziplock bags or vacuum-sealed packaging should suffice in preventing most instances of freezer burn.
Remember to label your packages with the date of freezing to ensure you use the oldest items first and maintain a rotation system for your frozen food.