Refrigerated chicken is a popular choice for many meals, whether it’s in salads, sandwiches, or as the main course. However, it’s important to know how long you can safely consume refrigerated chicken to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure your chicken is safe to eat.
How Long Can You Eat Refrigerated Chicken?
Refrigerated chicken can be consumed for a certain period, but it’s crucial to keep an eye on the time to prevent any risks to your health. Typically, cooked chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s essential to note that this timeline applies to both whole chicken and chicken parts, such as breasts, thighs, and wings.
Safe Handling and Storage
To ensure the safety of your refrigerated chicken, proper handling and storage techniques are paramount. When handling raw chicken, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after. Additionally, keep raw chicken separate from other foods to avoid cross-contamination. This includes using separate cutting boards, knives, and utensils for raw chicken.
When it comes to storage, always store your chicken in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Use airtight containers or wrap the chicken tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent any bacteria from contaminating the meat or other foods in your refrigerator.
Signs of Spoiled Chicken
While following the guidelines for safe consumption, it’s also vital to be aware of the signs that your refrigerated chicken has gone bad. Spoiled chicken may have a sour or ammonia-like odor, and its texture may become slimy or sticky. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to discard the chicken immediately to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
Freezing Refrigerated Chicken
If you find that you won’t be able to consume your refrigerated chicken within the safe storage period, freezing is an excellent option to extend its longevity.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze your refrigerated chicken, it’s important to follow these guidelines for optimal results:
1. Divide the chicken into portions suitable for your future needs to avoid having to defrost and refreeze the entire batch repeatedly.
2. Before freezing, ensure that the chicken is properly cooled. Leaving it at room temperature for too long can lead to bacterial growth.
3. Use airtight containers or freezer bags designed for freezing to protect the chicken from freezer burn.
4. Label each container or bag with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
5. When defrosting, do so in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
Freezing Duration
When stored in a freezer set at 0°F (-18°C) or below, frozen chicken can be consumed safely for up to four months. However, for best quality, it’s recommended to consume it within the first two months. Freezing the chicken does not kill bacteria but rather halts their growth. It’s important to handle and cook frozen chicken with the same level of caution as refrigerated chicken.
Cooking and Reheating Refrigerated Chicken
To ensure the safety of your refrigerated chicken, proper cooking and reheating techniques are crucial. Chicken should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria present.
Safe Cooking Practices
Here are some safe cooking practices to follow:
1. Allow the chicken to thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
2. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and avoid relying solely on the appearance of the meat.
3. If marinating chicken, discard any unused marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken, as it can contain harmful bacteria.
4. Clean and sanitize any surfaces, utensils, or dishes that come into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
Reheating Leftover Chicken
When reheating refrigerated chicken, it’s important to follow these steps:
1. Thoroughly reheat the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any bacteria that may have grown during storage.
2. Use methods such as baking, grilling, or sautéing, as they ensure proper heating throughout the chicken.
3. Avoid reheating chicken multiple times, as this increases the risk of bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, refrigerated chicken can be safely consumed for up to four days when stored properly. It’s crucial to follow safe handling and storage practices to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. For longer storage, freezing is a viable option, but it’s essential to adhere to freezing guidelines and keep track of the duration. Lastly, cooking and reheating chicken to the recommended internal temperature is crucial for safety. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy delicious refrigerated chicken while ensuring your health and well-being.