
Is Great Value Frozen Chicken Breast Healthy To Eat
January 16, 2025Have you ever opened a pack of frozen chicken only to be greeted by an odd preservative smell or taste? You’re not alone. Frozen chicken is a go-to for busy households and budget-conscious shoppers, but that chemical-like flavor can be a major turnoff.
It’s frustrating to prepare a meal only to have the taste ruined before it even reaches the plate.
The good news? That unpleasant preservative taste isn’t permanent!
The three-step method can restore your frozen chicken to its natural, fresh flavor.
Keep on reading to know all the practical tips to make each dish smell like heaven.
Why Does Frozen Chicken Have a Preservative Taste?
Understanding the cause of this preservative taste is the first step in solving it. There could be several reasons.
The preservative taste in frozen chicken usually comes down to one thing: shelf life extension. To ensure frozen chicken stays safe to eat for months, manufacturers often use additives like sodium and phosphates.

While these compounds help retain moisture and prevent spoilage, they can leave behind a distinct, artificial aftertaste.
Freezer burn is another reason. Over time, cold temperature dries out the meat and affects the natural taste.
Improper packaging – such as loosely sealed bags or poorly wrapped chicken – can allow odors from the freezer to seep in, further affecting the flavor.
3 Easy Steps To Remove Preservative Taste In Frozen Chicken
The preservative taste in frozen chicken can spoil your most important evening. By learning simple and practical tips on how to defrost, clean, and cook your frozen chicken properly, you can ensure your meals taste as fresh as they should.
The three easy steps to the yummiest frozen chicken feast include;
- Defrosting the Frozen Chicken in the Right Way
- Using Washing and Soaking Techniques to Remove the Taste
- Adopting Cooking Tips to Mask Any Lingering Flavor
Let’s dive into each step to ensure that the frozen chicken has no chemical flavor.
- Defrosting the Frozen Chicken in the Right Way
Defrosting frozen chicken might seem like a simple step, but doing it wrong can lock in that unpleasant preservative flavor. Proper defrosting not only helps eliminate the chemical aftertaste but also ensures even cooking and better texture.
Here are the best methods for defrosting frozen chicken:
Refrigerator Thawing
This is the safest and most effective way to defrost chicken. Simply place the frozen chicken on a plate or in a bowl, cover it, and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. The slow thawing process allows the excess preservatives to release naturally while keeping the chicken at a safe temperature to avoid bacterial growth.
Cold Water Method
If you’re short on time, this method works wonders:
- Place the chicken in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent water contamination.
- Submerge the bag in a large bowl of cold water.
- Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold.
Frozen chicken will typically defrost in 1–3 hours, depending on the size. This method helps wash away surface preservatives while keeping the meat safe to cook.
Avoiding Microwave Thawing
While microwaves offer speed, they can unevenly thaw chicken, partially cooking the edges while leaving the center frozen. This uneven thawing not only compromises the texture but can also trap preservative flavors in the chicken.
By defrosting your chicken correctly, you set the stage for removing any lingering artificial taste. Next, we’ll discuss washing and soaking techniques to take it a step further.
2. Using Washing and Soaking Techniques to Remove the Taste
Defrosted chicken isn’t ready to cook just yet! Washing and soaking your chicken can significantly reduce or completely eliminate that preservative taste.
Here’s how:
Part 1: Rinse Thoroughly
Thoroughly rinse the chicken to wash off any visible residue or slimy coating. This step prepares the chicken for soaking.
Part 2: Use proper Soaking Techniques
Soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution can enhance its moisture and flavor. A simple brine consists of water, salt, and optional spices or herbs. Submerge the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
You can also use other options to remove the preservative taste, such as lemon juice or vinegar.
Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and tenderizer. At the same time, lemon juice provides frozen chicken with a natural taste and removes the chemical flavor.
How Long to Soak for Best Results
- Vinegar and lemon juice: 15–20 minutes.
- Saltwater brining: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Soaking for the recommended time helps neutralize any lingering preservative flavors without overpowering the chicken. Once washed and soaked, your chicken will taste clean and fresh, ready for cooking.
3. Adopting Cooking Tips to Mask Any Lingering Flavor
You can mask the preservative taste in frozen chicken if it exists even after following the above two steps. Marination and smart cooking techniques will rescue you here.
Marinating Frozen Chicken
A flavorful marinade not only masks unwanted tastes but also tenderizes the meat. Some excellent marinade combinations include:
- Yogurt and Garlic: The acidity of yogurt breaks down proteins, while garlic adds a bold flavor. Add olive oil and spices like cumin or paprika for extra depth.
- Citrus and Herbs: Use lemon or lime juice mixed with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fresh, zesty kick.
- Soy Sauce and Ginger: Combine soy sauce, fresh ginger, and a touch of honey for an Asian-inspired marinade.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or, for best results, up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Cooking Methods
- Grilling for a Smoky Flavor: Grilling imparts a smoky aroma that overpowers any artificial taste. Use high heat to sear the chicken and lock in the marinade flavors.
- Roasting with Herbs and Butter: Coat the chicken with a mix of butter, garlic, and fresh herbs before roasting. The high temperature caramelizes the outer layer, giving the meat a rich and savory taste.
- Using Flavorful Sauces and Seasonings: Cooking chicken in BBQ sauce, teriyaki glaze, or a creamy curry sauce enhances flavor and masks any lingering aftertaste.
Why High-Heat Cooking Helps
High-heat cooking, such as grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, helps eliminate surface odors and enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. This method also seals in moisture, ensuring a juicy and delicious result.
Buy Brazil’s Best Frozen Chicken and Get Rid of the Preservative Taste in Frozen Chicken
You can avoid dealing with preservative flavors altogether by simply looking for “preservative-free” or organic labels. Choose a brand that offers frozen chicken free of additives like sodium and phosphates, making them taste more natural.
At Brazil Best Frozen Chicken, we believe every meal deserves to be fresh and flavorful. Our preservative-free frozen chicken is carefully prepared to meet the highest quality standards so you can enjoy natural, great-tasting chicken every time.
Make the switch to Brazil Best Frozen Chicken for a healthier and tastier option. Visit our website today to explore our range of frozen chicken products and experience the difference in quality!
FAQs
- Can I use the same techniques for frozen chicken thighs, wings, or breasts?
Yes, the steps for defrosting, rinsing, soaking, and cooking apply to all types of frozen chicken cuts.
- What should I look for on frozen chicken labels to avoid preservatives?
Following labels can help you choose a better brand.
- Preservative-free label
- Organic certification
- Low sodium
- How long can I store frozen chicken without compromising its flavor?
Here is the general guideline to store the frozen chicken.
- Whole: 1 year
- Pieces: 9 months
- Cooked: 4–6 months