How Long Can Chicken Be in the Fridge?

Chicken is a popular and versatile protein that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, it’s important to handle and store chicken properly to ensure its safety and prevent foodborne illness. One of the key factors in safe chicken storage is knowing how long it can be stored in the fridge before it goes bad. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines for storing both raw and cooked chicken in the fridge and provide tips for maximizing its shelf life.

How Long Can Raw Chicken Be Stored in the Fridge?

When it comes to raw chicken, it’s important to store it properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Generally, raw chicken can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days before it should be cooked or frozen. However, there are several factors that can affect the storage time of raw chicken in the fridge:

• Temperature: Raw chicken should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to slow the growth of bacteria. If the temperature in your fridge fluctuates or rises above this threshold, the chicken may spoil more quickly.
• Packaging: Raw chicken should be stored in airtight packaging to prevent contamination and keep it from drying out. If the packaging is damaged or not properly sealed, the chicken may spoil more quickly.
• Freshness: Fresh chicken that is stored properly will last longer in the fridge than chicken that is close to its expiration date.

If you’re not sure whether raw chicken is still good, use your senses to check for signs of spoilage:

• Smell: Spoiled chicken may have a sour or ammonia-like smell.
• Appearance: Spoiled chicken may appear slimy or have a yellow or greenish tint.
• Texture: Spoiled chicken may feel sticky or tacky to the touch.

How Long Can Cooked Chicken Be Stored in the Fridge?

Cooked chicken can also be stored in the fridge for a limited time. Generally, cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days before it should be consumed or frozen. However, several factors can affect the storage time of cooked chicken in the fridge:

• Temperature: Cooked chicken should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth. If the temperature in your fridge is too warm, the chicken may spoil more quickly.
• Moisture: Cooked chicken should be stored in airtight packaging or a sealed container to prevent moisture loss and contamination. If the chicken is not properly sealed, it may dry out and spoil more quickly.
• Freshness: Cooked chicken that is stored properly will last longer in the fridge than chicken that is close to its expiration date.

If you’re not sure whether cooked chicken is still good, use your senses to check for signs of spoilage:

• Smell: Spoiled chicken may have a sour or ammonia-like smell.
• Appearance: Spoiled chicken may appear slimy or have a yellow or greenish tint.
• Texture: Spoiled chicken may feel slimy or sticky to the touch.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the chicken to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

How to Properly Store Chicken in the Fridge

Proper storage is key to keeping chicken safe and fresh in the fridge. Here are some tips to help you store chicken properly:

• Keep it cold: Raw chicken should be stored in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the bottom shelf. Make sure the temperature in your fridge is below 40°F (4°C).
• Use proper packaging: Raw chicken should be stored in airtight packaging to prevent contamination and keep it from drying out. You can use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or a sealable plastic bag. Make sure the packaging is intact and sealed tightly.
• Don’t overcrowd: Don’t cram too much chicken into your fridge. Overcrowding can make it harder for the fridge to maintain a consistent temperature and may cause the chicken to spoil more quickly.
• Label and date: If you’re storing chicken in the fridge, make sure to label the packaging with the date it was stored. This will help you keep track of how long the chicken has been in the fridge and avoid using chicken that has gone bad.
• Use the right container: Cooked chicken should be stored in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and contamination. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are good options.

Signs of Spoiled Chicken in the Fridge

If you’re unsure whether chicken in your fridge is still good, there are several signs of spoilage to look out for:

• Smell: Spoiled chicken may have a sour or ammonia-like smell.
• Appearance: Spoiled chicken may appear slimy or have a yellow or greenish tint.
• Texture: Spoiled chicken may feel slimy or sticky to the touch.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the chicken to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Best Practices for Using Leftover Chicken from the Fridge

If you have leftover chicken in the fridge, it’s important to use it up quickly to prevent waste and ensure its safety. Here are some tips for using leftover chicken from the fridge:

• Reheat it properly: If you’re reheating cooked chicken, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may have grown while it was in the fridge.
• Use it in a timely manner: Leftover chicken should be consumed within 3-4 days of being stored in the fridge.
• Use it creatively: Leftover chicken can be used in many different dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, and soups. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to use up your leftover chicken.
• Don’t refreeze it: If you’ve thawed frozen chicken and cooked it, don’t refreeze it. Once chicken has been thawed, it should be cooked and consumed within a few days to ensure its safety. Refreezing can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage.

Conclusion

Chicken is a staple ingredient in many households, but it’s important to know how to properly store it in the fridge to ensure its safety and freshness. Remember to keep raw chicken in the coldest part of the fridge, use proper packaging, and avoid overcrowding.

Also, make sure to label and date your chicken, and use it within a few days to avoid spoilage. By following these best practices, you can enjoy delicious and safe chicken dishes without worrying about foodborne illness.

Remember, if you’re unsure whether chicken in your fridge is still good, look for signs of spoilage such as a sour or ammonia-like smell, slimy appearance, or a sticky texture. When in doubt, it’s best to discard the chicken to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

With a little care and attention, you can safely store and use chicken in your fridge for delicious meals and snacks.