When it comes to food safety, one of the most common questions that people ask is how long they can keep chicken in the refrigerator. With the rise of convenience foods and meal prep, it’s easy to forget the importance of proper food storage and handling. However, chicken is a high-risk food that can quickly become contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause serious illness. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines for storing chicken in the refrigerator, how to handle and cook it safely, and what to do if you’re unsure whether your chicken is still good to eat.
Guidelines for Storing Chicken in the Refrigerator
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), raw chicken should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. It’s also important to store chicken in a covered container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
Refrigerator Storage Time
| Storage Time | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|
| 1-2 days | Whole chicken, cut into pieces, or ground chicken |
| 3-4 days | Chicken breast or thighs, cooked or raw |
| 1 week | Chicken broth or stock |
It’s important to note that these storage times are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific storage conditions and the quality of the chicken. For example, if you store chicken in a warm or humid environment, it may spoil more quickly.
Handling and Cooking Chicken Safely
Handling and cooking chicken safely is just as important as storing it properly. Here are some tips to help you handle and cook chicken safely:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling chicken.
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure that chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Refrigerate cooked chicken promptly and consume it within 3-4 days.
Signs of Spoilage
Even with proper storage and handling, chicken can still spoil if it’s not stored or cooked properly. Here are some signs of spoilage to look out for:
- Off smell or slimy texture
- Mold or yeast growth
- Sluggish or sour taste
- Visible signs of contamination, such as blood or pus
If you notice any of these signs of spoilage, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the chicken.
Recall and Disposal
If you’re unsure whether your chicken is still good to eat, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. You can also check the USDA’s website for recalls and advisories on chicken products. If you’re unsure whether a chicken product is safe to eat, you can contact the manufacturer or your local health department for guidance.
Recap and Key Points
In this article, we’ve explored the guidelines for storing chicken in the refrigerator, how to handle and cook it safely, and what to do if you’re unsure whether your chicken is still good to eat. Here are the key points to remember:
- Store raw chicken in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure that chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Refrigerate cooked chicken promptly and consume it within 3-4 days.
- Check for signs of spoilage, such as off smell or slimy texture, mold or yeast growth, sluggish or sour taste, and visible signs of contamination.
- Discard chicken if you’re unsure whether it’s still good to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I store cooked chicken in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s best to store it in a covered container and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken?
A: Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 4 months. It’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Q: How do I know if chicken is still good to eat?
A: Check the chicken for signs of spoilage, such as off smell or slimy texture, mold or yeast growth, sluggish or sour taste, and visible signs of contamination. If you’re unsure whether the chicken is still good to eat, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Q: Can I cook chicken in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, chicken can be cooked in a slow cooker. Make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and use a food thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Q: Can I store chicken in the freezer for a long time?
A: Yes, chicken can be stored in the freezer for a long time. It’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. However, it’s best to consume frozen chicken within 4 months for optimal quality and food safety.