How Long Can Chicken Stay In The Fridge? Best Storage Tips!

Is it safe to keep raw chicken in the refrigerator for up to 7 days? Ensuring food safety is paramount when it comes to storing and handling raw chicken. Raw chicken is susceptible to bacterial growth, and allowing it to sit in the fridge for more than a week can pose significant health risks due to potential foodborne illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of the storage duration and follow proper food safety practices when handling raw chicken. This information is especially important to keep in mind as of July 19, 2023.

When it comes to storing chicken in the fridge, it’s important to know the recommended time frames. Raw chicken, whether whole or in pieces, can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 1–2 days. However, if you have leftover cooked chicken, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a slightly longer period, typically lasting 3–4 days. It’s important to note that after the recommended time frames, the chicken may no longer be safe to consume, so it’s advised to use it within the specified time limits for freshness and safety. If you plan to keep chicken for a longer period, consider freezing it to extend its shelf life.

Raw chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of one to two days, as advised by FoodSafety.gov. It’s important to note that the “best if used by” date on the packaging is primarily for quality assurance. Therefore, it is recommended to consume raw chicken within a day or two, even if the printed expiration date has not yet passed (as of July 20, 2023). This information ensures that you maintain the highest level of food safety.