Many people enjoy cooking chicken. It is tasty and healthy. But how long can raw chicken stay in the fridge? This is important to know. Eating bad chicken can make you sick. In this article, we will learn about storing raw chicken safely. We will also explore how to tell if it is still good to eat.
How Long Can Raw Chicken Last in the Fridge?
Raw chicken can last in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. This is the safe time to keep it. After that, it can spoil. Spoiled chicken can cause food poisoning. This is why it is very important to check the date.
How to Store Raw Chicken
Storing chicken properly is key. Here are some tips:
- Keep it in the original packaging.
- Place it on a plate or in a container.
- Store it at the bottom shelf of the fridge.
- Make sure the fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower.
Why Does Raw Chicken Spoil?
Raw chicken can spoil for many reasons. Bacteria are the main cause. Bacteria grow quickly in warm places. If chicken is not stored correctly, it can spoil fast. Some bacteria can make you very sick.
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Signs Raw Chicken Has Spoiled
It is important to know how to check if chicken is bad. Here are some signs:
- Smell: Bad chicken has a strong, sour smell.
- Color: Fresh chicken is pink. If it is gray or green, it is bad.
- Texture: If it feels slimy, do not eat it.
What to Do If You Cannot Use It Right Away
Sometimes you cannot use chicken right away. What should you do? You can freeze it. Freezing chicken is a great way to keep it safe for longer.
How To Freeze Raw Chicken
Freezing chicken is easy. Follow these steps:
- Remove the chicken from the original packaging.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Then, place it in a freezer bag.
- Make sure to remove all air from the bag.
- Label the bag with the date.
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How Long Can Frozen Chicken Last?
Frozen chicken can last a long time. It is safe to eat for up to 1 year. However, it is best to use it within 6 months. The quality is better when used sooner.
Thawing Frozen Chicken Safely
When you are ready to use frozen chicken, you need to thaw it. Here are safe ways to thaw chicken:
- In the fridge: This is the safest method. Place chicken in the fridge overnight.
- In cold water: Place chicken in a sealed bag. Submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes.
- In the microwave: Use the microwave to thaw it. Cook immediately after thawing.
Cooking Raw Chicken
Cooking chicken properly is very important. It kills harmful bacteria. Here are some cooking tips:
- Cook chicken until it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.
Leftover Cooked Chicken
What about leftover cooked chicken? You can keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store it in a sealed container. You can also freeze it for up to 4 months.
Conclusion
Knowing how long raw chicken lasts is important. It can help you avoid food poisoning. Remember, raw chicken lasts in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. Store it properly and check for signs of spoilage. If you cannot use it right away, consider freezing it. Always cook chicken to the proper temperature. Stay safe and enjoy your meals!
FAQs
1. Can I Eat Chicken After 3 Days In The Fridge?
No, it is not safe to eat raw chicken after 2 days.
2. What Happens If I Eat Spoiled Chicken?
You may get food poisoning. It can cause stomach pain and vomiting.
3. Can I Smell Chicken To Tell If It Is Bad?
Yes, a bad smell is a sign that chicken has spoiled.
4. Is It Okay To Freeze Chicken In Its Store Packaging?
It is better to re-wrap it. Store packaging may not be airtight.
5. How Can I Tell If Cooked Chicken Is Still Good?
Check for smell, color, and texture. If unsure, throw it away.
