Sous Vide How to Sous Vide Frozen Food: Temperature & Time Guide
Sous vide is the best way to cook frozen food — it goes straight from the freezer into the bath, with the only change being extra time.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
Seal the frozen food (or use its original freezer-safe packaging), set the bath to the normal temperature, and add 50% to the time (a 1-hour chicken becomes 1.5 hours). The low, even heat thaws and cooks simultaneously. For very thick frozen items, add up to 100% time.
FAQ
Can I cook frozen chicken sous vide?
Yes — add 50% time at the same temperature. Safe and better-textured than thawing in the microwave.
Do I need to thaw first?
No — that's the beauty. The bath thaws and cooks in one step.
How much time do I add?
50% for most items; 100% for thick, dense cuts like roasts.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.