Yes, it is safe to eat chicken cooked from frozen, but there are some important guidelines to follow to ensure it is cooked properly and safely.
When cooking chicken from frozen, it's essential to cook it thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria that may be present. The two recommended methods for cooking frozen chicken are:
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature (usually around 375°F or 190°C). Place the frozen chicken in a roasting pan or baking dish and cook it until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It may take longer than cooking thawed chicken, so use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure it is fully cooked.
Stovetop Method: In a large pot, add enough water or chicken broth to cover the frozen chicken. Bring the liquid to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Again, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's temperature.
Avoid cooking chicken from frozen in a slow cooker or on a barbecue grill, as these methods may not reach the necessary temperatures quickly enough to ensure safety.
It's crucial to note that cooking chicken from frozen may result in uneven cooking, with the outside being cooked before the inside reaches a safe temperature. To minimize this, consider using smaller pieces of chicken or cutting larger pieces into smaller ones.
Additionally, do not refreeze chicken that has been cooked from frozen. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days.
By following these guidelines and ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, cooking chicken from frozen can be a safe and convenient option. However, for best results and even cooking, it's always recommended to thaw chicken before cooking whenever possible.