How Long Will Cooked Chicken Last in the Fridge?

If you're like most people, you probably don't think twice about cooking chicken. It's a staple in many diets, and it's usually pretty easy to make. But have you ever wondered how long cooked chicken really lasts in the fridge?

The answer, it turns out, is not as straightforward as you might think. How long your cooked chicken will stay fresh depends on a number of factors, including how it was cooked, what it was cooked in, and how it's stored.

What is the Recommended Storage Time for Cooked Chicken?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that cooked chicken be stored in the fridge at 40°F or below for up to four days. If you need to store it for longer, chicken can be frozen for up to four months.

However, it's important to note that these are just guidelines. The actual shelf life of your cooked chicken may be shorter or longer, depending on the factors mentioned above.

When storing cooked chicken, it is important to ensure that it is properly sealed and stored in an airtight container. This will help to prevent bacteria from growing and will help to keep the chicken fresh for longer. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the chicken is not left out at room temperature for more than two hours, as this can cause bacteria to grow and can make the chicken unsafe to eat.

How to Store Cooked Chicken in the Refrigerator

Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge in a number of ways. The most important thing is to make sure that it's covered tightly so that it doesn't dry out.

One way to store cooked chicken is to place it in a covered container or wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Another option is to place the chicken in a zip-top bag.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to label the chicken with the date it was cooked and the date it needs to be used by. This will help you keep track of how long it's been in the fridge and ensure that you don't eat it after it's gone bad.

When storing cooked chicken in the refrigerator, it's important to make sure that it's kept away from any raw foods. This will help prevent cross-contamination and the spread of bacteria. Additionally, cooked chicken should be consumed within three to four days of being stored in the refrigerator.

What Are the Signs of Spoiled Cooked Chicken?

There are a few signs that you can look for to tell if your cooked chicken has gone bad. First, check the color of the chicken. Fresh, cooked chicken should be white or off-white. If it's starting to turn green or has brown or black spots, it's probably spoiled.

Another sign of spoiled chicken is a change in texture. Fresh, cooked chicken is moist and tender. If it's starting to dry out or become stringy, it's probably not safe to eat.

Finally, if your chicken has a bad odor, it's best to throw it away. cooked chicken should have a mild, neutral smell. If it smells sour, rotten, or otherwise unpleasant, it's not safe to eat.

It's important to remember that cooked chicken can spoil quickly, so it's best to consume it within two days of cooking. If you're not sure if your chicken is still safe to eat, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.

How to Reheat Cooked Chicken Safely

Cooked chicken can be reheated in the oven, on the stove, or in the microwave. However, it's important to make sure that it's reheated properly to avoid food poisoning. The USDA recommends heated cooked chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F.

When reheating chicken in the oven or on the stove, be sure to cook it until it's steaming hot all the way through. You can test it by sticking a fork in the thickest part of the chicken. If the fork is hot to the touch, the chicken is done. If not, continue cooking it until it is.

When reheating chicken in the microwave, be sure to cover it so that it doesn't dry out. Cook it on high for two to three minutes, or until it's steaming hot all the way through. Let it stand for a minute before eating to make sure that it reaches the proper internal temperature.

It's important to remember that chicken should not be reheated more than once. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and reheat them within two days. Reheating chicken more than once can increase the risk of food poisoning.

Tips for Keeping Cooked Chicken Fresh Longer

There are a few things you can do to keep your cooked chicken fresh for as long as possible. First, make sure that it's stored properly in the fridge. As we mentioned above, cooked chicken should be covered tightly and labeled with the date it was cooked and the date it needs to be used by.

Another tip is to portion out the chicken into smaller meals. This will help it stay fresh longer because you won't have to reheat a large amount all at once. Just be sure to store the portions in covered containers or zip-top bags.

Finally, if you know you won't be able to eat all of the chicken within four days, consider freezing it. Chicken can be frozen for up to four months, so this is a great way to extend its shelf life.

When freezing cooked chicken, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to keep out any air and moisture that could cause freezer burn. Additionally, it's important to label the chicken with the date it was frozen so you know when it needs to be used by.

What Are the Health Benefits of Eating Cooked Chicken?

In addition to being a great source of protein, cooked chicken also provides a number of other nutrients that are essential for good health. Chicken is a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, as well as niacin and selenium. It's also a good source of phosphorus, zinc, and iron.

Eating cooked chicken regularly has been linked with a number of health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.

In addition, cooked chicken is a great source of lean protein, which can help to keep you feeling full for longer and can help to reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. Eating cooked chicken can also help to boost your metabolism, which can help you to burn more calories throughout the day.

How to Tell If Cooked Chicken Has Gone Bad

As we've seen, there are a few signs that you can look for to tell if your cooked chicken has gone bad. However, the best way to tell if chicken has gone bad is to use a food thermometer. Cooked chicken should be heated to an internal temperature of 165°F. If it's not, it's best to throw it away.

So, there you have it! Now you know how long cooked chicken will last in the fridge and how to tell if it's gone bad. Use these tips to make sure that your chicken is always fresh and safe to eat.

It's also important to store cooked chicken properly. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from spoiling.