Resting- a logistical question

[lomine]

I plan to do my first big butchering session this weekend. I've got some CX and a few EE cockerels that have purchased their tickets to freezer camp. I've done both quail and chicken before so I've got a good idea of what I need and what to do. However, in the past I've kept everything whole.

This time around I want to freeze a few whole but most I'd like to break down and freeze by type (i.e. breasts, thighs, legs separated). I plan to rest the birds in ice water in a cooler for 2-3 days, unbagged. Can I let them rest whole and then cut up or do I cut them up first? I'm thinking I'll be tired after doing all these birds by myself so I'm hoping I can rest them whole and then save the cutting for a different day.

 

[Chaos18]

Yes you can let them rest whole before cutting them up. That way you can put them straight in the freezer after piecing them out.

 

[lomine]

Thank you.

 

[Chaos18]

You're welcome, happy to help when I can.

 

[Birdinhand]

I've got a cooler full of 12 right now, on their second day. I'd rest them before butchering, it's harder once rigger has set in, so I like to wait till after they relax a bit. just keep them below 40 degrees. I use one of those laser guns to make sure all parts keep cold.