can you thaw food in the refrigerator
These are temperatures where bacteria multiply rapidly. Thaw food in the refrigerator at 40Â°F or less, in cold running water less than 70Â°F, or in the microwave if you'll be cooking or serving it immediately. Thawing in the refrigerator takes the longest time and advance planning. A large frozen item like a turkey requires at least a day (24 hours) for every 5 pounds of weight. Even small amounts of frozen food â- such as a pound of ground meat or boneless chicken breasts â- require a full day to thaw.