How to Thaw Frozen Fish: Refrigerator, Cold Water and Microwave
Choose your thawing method around when you plan to cook. This guide covers preparation of frozen salmon and other fish; for the separate question of putting thawed fish back in the freezer, see when you can refreeze fish.
Check the packaging first
Read the thawing instructions on the label. Remove vacuum-packed fish from its vacuum packaging before refrigerator thawing. Place it in a clean dish on a tray to contain drips, with a loose cover. N.C. Cooperative Extension explains the vacuum-packaging precaution: the reduced-oxygen environment can permit botulism hazards during thawing.
Refrigerator thawing: plan ahead
Keep the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Allow overnight for many portions; thick cuts and whole fish can take longer. Keep raw fish separate from ready-to-eat food. The FDA seafood handling guide recommends gradual refrigerator thawing.
Choose the portions you need while the remaining fish is still frozen. A whole fish, a thick loin, and individual fillet portions should not be assigned one fixed thawing time. Plan the meal around the actual cut rather than relying on a universal 6–12-hour promise.
Cold-water thawing: cook immediately afterward
Remove any vacuum packaging, transfer the fish to a clean leakproof bag without vacuum sealing, and immerse in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes and cook immediately after thawing. These timing and cooking precautions follow USDA thawing guidance.
Microwave thawing: for immediate cooking
Use a microwave-safe dish and the appliance's defrost instructions. Stop when the fish is still icy but flexible, then cook immediately. This is an option in the FDA guide, although uneven warming can affect the result. Do not thaw fish on the counter or in hot water.
From thawing to dinner
Pat the fish dry before seasoning. For a straightforward meal, try our lemon-herb fish recipe; for outdoor cooking, use the grilling technique guide.
Shop Frozen Fish for freezer planning, Fresh Fish for fresh orders, or Fish to compare the full selection. Check the listed cut and package size before choosing.
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