How Long Does Raw Chicken Last in the Refrigerator? Expert Guide

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pack of raw chicken in your fridge, wondering whether it’s still safe to eat, you’re not alone. The truth is, raw chicken doesn’t last forever. Understanding how long it stays fresh is crucial to avoid foodborne illnesses like salmonella. But don’t worry, I’m here to break it all down for you in simple terms. Let’s dive in and make sure you know exactly how to store chicken properly and when to toss it out.

What Is the Ideal Temperature for Storing Raw Chicken?

When it comes to storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, temperature plays a huge role. Chicken should always be stored at the right temperature to keep it safe and fresh. The ideal temperature for your fridge is 40°F (4°C) or lower. This temperature slows down the growth of bacteria, which can make you sick.

A refrigerator that’s too warm won’t do the job of keeping bacteria at bay. If the temperature is higher than 40°F, bacteria can multiply quickly, making the chicken unsafe to eat. If you’re unsure about your fridge’s temperature, it’s a good idea to get a thermometer and check it regularly.

How to Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Fresh

Use a thermometer: A fridge thermometer is your best friend. Keep it at 40°F or lower.
Store it properly: Make sure raw chicken is in a leak-proof container or a sealed plastic bag. This prevents any juices from spilling onto other food and contaminating it.
Don’t overload the fridge: If your fridge is too packed, it can’t stay cool enough. Make sure there’s enough airflow inside for your fridge to work properly.

By keeping the fridge at the right temperature, you’re giving your raw chicken the best chance to stay fresh and safe for as long as possible.

How Long Can Raw Chicken Last in the Fridge?

Now, let’s answer the big question: how long does raw chicken last in the fridge? In general, raw chicken will last between 1 and 2 days in the refrigerator. However, several factors can influence this timeline. Let’s break it down:

The Shelf Life of Different Types of Raw Chicken

Whole chicken: A whole chicken will typically last around 1-2 days in the fridge. It’s best to use it as soon as possible for the freshest taste.
Chicken parts (breasts, thighs, wings, etc.): If you’ve bought chicken parts, they usually last the same 1-2 days in the fridge. However, if they’re packaged in a vacuum-sealed bag, they might last a bit longer. Still, you shouldn’t push it past 2 days.
Ground chicken: Ground chicken is a bit more perishable than whole pieces or parts. It’s best to use it within 1 day after purchasing it.

Signs of Spoilage

Even if your chicken is within the 1-2 day window, it’s important to check it before cooking. Here are a few signs that your chicken might have gone bad:

Smell: Fresh chicken should have a very mild odor. If it smells sour or has a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s time to throw it out.
Color: Fresh chicken should be pale pink. If it’s turning gray or developing green spots, that’s a clear sign it’s spoiled.
Texture: Raw chicken should feel firm to the touch. If it feels slimy or sticky, it’s not safe to eat.

How to Extend the Shelf Life of Raw Chicken

If you’re not planning on using your raw chicken right away, freezing it is the best way to extend its shelf life. Freezing chicken helps keep it safe for a much longer period. Here’s how to do it properly:

Freezing Raw Chicken

Use freezer-safe bags: When you freeze chicken, make sure to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or a zip-lock bag. This prevents air from getting in and keeps freezer burn at bay.
Label the chicken: Write the date you froze the chicken on the bag. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
Don’t refreeze thawed chicken: Once chicken has been thawed, it should never be refrozen unless it’s cooked. Refreezing raw chicken can lead to bacteria growth and spoilage.

How Long Can You Keep Frozen Chicken?

Frozen chicken can last in the freezer for quite a while. Here’s a general guide:

Whole chicken: Up to 1 year
Chicken parts: Up to 9 months
Ground chicken: Up to 3-4 months

Freezing chicken won’t affect its safety, but it can affect the taste and texture over time. For the best quality, try to use frozen chicken within the recommended timeframe.

Tips for Storing Raw Chicken Safely

Now that you know how long raw chicken lasts in the fridge and freezer, let’s go over some tips to make sure it stays as fresh and safe as possible. Storing chicken properly is essential to avoid contamination and keep your meals safe.

Practice FIFO (First In, First Out)

If you’ve got a lot of chicken in your fridge or freezer, it’s a good idea to practice FIFO. This means using the oldest chicken first and putting the new chicken at the back. It’s an easy way to make sure nothing goes to waste and you’re using the freshest chicken first.

Don’t Leave Chicken Out at Room Temperature

Raw chicken should never be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F (like on a hot summer day), that time shrinks to just 1 hour. After that, harmful bacteria can start to grow, making it unsafe to eat.

Don’t Rinse Raw Chicken

It might seem like a good idea to rinse raw chicken to clean it, but this actually increases the risk of spreading bacteria. When you rinse chicken, water droplets can splash onto other surfaces in your kitchen, contaminating them. Instead, pat your chicken dry with paper towels if needed and handle it with care.

Clean Everything Thoroughly

After handling raw chicken, make sure to clean everything that came in contact with it. This includes knives, cutting boards, and countertops. Use hot, soapy water to wash your hands and surfaces. If you’re using a cutting board for chicken, it’s best to have a separate one for raw meats to avoid cross-contamination.

I hope this article helped you understand how long raw chicken lasts in the refrigerator and how to store it properly. Remember, food safety is important, and a little knowledge can go a long way in keeping you and your family safe. If you have any more questions or need tips on cooking chicken, feel free to ask!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to eat raw chicken after 2 days in the fridge?

If the chicken has been stored correctly at the right temperature (40°F or lower) and shows no signs of spoilage, it’s safe to eat within 1-2 days. Always check for bad smells, slimy texture, or color changes.

Can I freeze raw chicken for later use?

Yes, freezing raw chicken is a great way to store it for a longer period. It can last from 3 months to 1 year depending on the type of chicken.

Do I need to thaw frozen chicken before cooking?

It’s safest to thaw frozen chicken in the fridge before cooking, but you can also cook it directly from frozen. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly.

Is it okay to cook chicken after it has been in the fridge for 3 days?

Raw chicken should not be kept in the fridge for more than 2 days. If it’s been 3 days, it’s better to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Can I store raw chicken in the fridge for a week?

No, raw chicken should not be stored in the fridge for more than 1-2 days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze it.

Is it safe to eat chicken if it smells a little off?

No, if chicken smells sour or has a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s not safe to eat. Always trust your senses to check if the chicken has gone bad.

Do I need to wash chicken before cooking?

It’s not recommended to wash raw chicken. Rinsing it can spread bacteria. Just handle it carefully and cook it thoroughly.

Can I store cooked chicken with raw chicken in the fridge?

No, cooked and raw chicken should never be stored together. Always store raw chicken separately to avoid cross-contamination.