Want to know how to thaw pork chops quickly, safely and properly?
Then you’re in the right place.
Today I am going to give you step-by-step instructions to the three best thawing techniques, some of which I have personally used, to quickly defrost frozen pork chops
Let’s get right into it.
Related: How to Thaw Salmon
How to Thaw Frozen Pork Chops: A Look at the Best Options
When thawing pork chops, you have three recommended options to choose from.
- Overnight in the refrigerator
- Cold water bath
- Microwave
Each method is pretty good, even though they have their own pros and cons. Below, we will take a more detailed look at each defrosting method.
Before we go deeper on the steps, let’s take a look at how long each one take, as many of you might be wondering how to quickly defrost pork chops.
How Long Does It Take to Thaw Pork Chops?
| Method | Defrosting Time | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Overnight in the Refrigerator | 8-12 hours | Once thawed, pork chops can be stored up to 48 Hours in the refrigerator. |
| Cold-water Method | 15-45 Mins | After thawing, pork chops can be stored up to 48 Hours in the refrigerator. |
| Microwave | 5-15 Mins (Depending on Size) | Cook Immediately. |
Now you have an idea as to how look each thawing method can take, let’s look at each one in more in detail.
Defrost Pork Chops Overnight in the Refrigerator
The recommended way to thaw frozen pork chops is to let them sit overnight in the refrigerator.
With this method, you can feel secure that it will be safely defrosted and ready to be used by the next morning.
Steps:
- Remove frozen pork chops from the freezer, a day before you plan to use it.
- Place the pork chops in a container and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
Important: Raw meat, like pork chops, should be stored on the bottom shelf so juices don’t drip onto other foods and cause cross-contamination. - When you are ready to season or cook your pork chops, it should be fully defrosted the next morning.
- After thawing pork chops in the refrigerator, they can be safely kept in there for 3 to 5 days before cooking.
Pros: This is the safest method to thawing pork chops. Perfect for those who plan their meals ahead of time.
Cons: Slow method (can take 8 to 12 hours). Not recommended for people who need to defrost their frozen pork chops fast.
Defrost Pork Chops in the Microwave
If you are in a rush, then the microwave is the best way to get your pork chops thawed quickly.
Steps:
- Remove the frozen pork chops from the freezer and place in a microwave-safe rate or container.
- Use the defrost or low power setting (usually 30% power) on the microwave.
- You can expect it to take 7-8 minutes per pound for the pork chops to defrost.
- If still frozen, use the microwave in 3-5 minute bursts, until fully thawed. Constantly check to ensure that the microwave has not started to cook the pork chops.
- Once thawed, cook immediately.
Pros: Great option for those who need to defrost their pork chops quickly.
Cons: The pork chops can begin to cook, if not properly monitored or a high power setting on the microwave is used.
Defrost Pork Chops in a Cold Water Bath
While not the fastest method (microwave wins), the cold bath method is another quick option to consider, if you are in a rush and need your pork chops thawed quickly.
- fill the kitchen sink or container with cold water from the kitchen faucet.
- Place the pork chops in the cold water bath and let it sit for around 20-30 minutes.
- Check after 20 – 30 minutes to see if your pork chops have thawed fully. If not, replace the water and refill the container/sink and let the meat sit for another 10 to 15 minutes depending on how frozen it is.
- Once fully thawed, cook immediately.
Note: The process could be sped up if the container with the pork chops is placed under a faucet running cold water.
While this is a much quicker process, we do not recommend it, simply because you will be wasting a lot of water.
Pros: Quick option that can have your meat thawed and ready to be cooked in about 30 minutes.
Cons: If left unattended for too long, there is a possibility that the meat could enter the DANGER ZONE.
Before Thawing Pork Chops, You Need to Know This!
Before you start the process of thawing your pork chops, here is some important information you need to know:
If meat like pork chops are not thawed PROPERLY you open up yourself to the danger zone & the growth of harmful bacteria.
What is the Danger Zone?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states, that the Danger Zone is the range of temperatures 40 ° and 140 °F, where bacteria harmful food borne bacteria multiplies and grows quickly.
These harmful bacteria, like E. coli, Salmonella, among others, are associated with food borne illnesses and poisoning.
This is why we stress that it is extremely important that you follow recommended thawing instruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Defrost Frozen Pork Chops at Room Temperature?
No, it is not safe to defrost frozen pork chops at room temperature. When food is left out of refrigeration, bacteria can quickly multiply and cause your food to spoil. Therefore, it is important to thaw using the methods we mentioned earlier and never let it sit out at room temperature.
Wrapping it up
That wraps it up for my guide on thawing pork chops.
I want to know which method are you going to use going forward?
Let me know in the comments.
