Perhaps you prepared a large quantity of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in advance to use in salads and sandwiches throughout the entire week. Alternatively, perhaps you simply prepared more chicken chili than your family could consume in a single meal. Whatever the reason, a lot of us deal with leftover cooked chicken on a weekly basis. Although having it in the refrigerator is fantastic and practical (since chili is always better the next day), how long can cooked chicken be kept there before it becomes unsafe to consume?
Cooked Chicken Stored in the Refrigerator Should Be Eaten in 3 to 4 Days
To prevent bacteria from growing, chicken should only be left out at room temperature for a maximum of two hours after cooking. Leftovers should be consumed within three to four days after being refrigerated because bacteria can still grow there.
We advise labeling items with the date they were prepared to help you keep track of how long they’ve been in the fridge. Keep it there so you won’t accidentally push it to the fridge’s back and forget about it by placing it on a middle shelf where it is visible. Place the food in the freezer if you anticipate not eating it within three to four days.
FAQ
Can I eat cooked chicken after 5 days?
The USDA states that chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days before it needs to be thrown out. If you’re on day five, it’s time to toss it.
Can I eat cooked chicken after 7 days?
In the refrigerator, cooked chicken will last three to four days and in the freezer, two to three months. After this point, eating cooked chicken may cause a foodborne illness because bacteria can still grow even in the refrigerator.
How long is leftover boiled chicken good for?
The USDA advises using cooked chicken that has been kept chilled (at 40°F or less) within three to four days. Refrigeration slows but does not stop bacterial growth. USDA recommends using cooked leftovers within three to four days.
Can you eat cooked chicken breast after 4 days?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that cooked chicken, whether it is in whole form (like a rotisserie chicken) or in pieces, like chicken breast or thighs, will last for three to four days in the refrigerator or four to six months in the freezer; the latter is true if you’re freezing a chicken dish like a chicken pot pie.