Safe Storage Tips: How Long Does Raw Chicken Last in the Fridge?

How long can Raw chicken stay in the fridge? We’ve all been there. You bought groceries with the best intentions, but life threw a curveball, and now you’re staring at a package of raw chicken, wondering if it’s still safe to cook. It’s a common kitchen dilemma that can have serious consequences if not handled properly.

The Shelf Life of Raw Chicken

According to FoodSafety.gov, raw chicken, whether it’s a whole bird or cut into parts like breasts or thighs, lasts only one to two days in the fridge. After that, it’s time to either cook it or freeze it. If you freeze raw chicken, you can extend its shelf life to nine months for pieces and up to a year for a whole bird. Cooked chicken, on the other hand, can last three to four days in the fridge.

So, what’s the rush? Why does raw chicken spoil so quickly? The reason lies in the fact that chicken is highly perishable. Once exposed to air, bacteria begin to multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses like Salmonella.

How to Tell If Raw Chicken Has Gone Bad

Even if your raw chicken is within its “best if used by” date, it could still be unsafe to eat. How can you tell? Let your senses guide you.

• Smell: Spoiled chicken has a distinct, foul odor. If it smells off, it’s best to throw it out.
• Appearance: Fresh chicken has a light pink color. If the meat turns gray, green, or yellow, or you notice mold, it’s time to discard it. Additionally, bad chicken often looks extra shiny and slimy.
• Texture: When you press the meat, it should be firm with a slight give. If it feels sticky or leaves an indent where your finger is pressed, the chicken is likely spoiled. Always wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water after handling raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Understanding the Dates on Chicken Packaging

Those dates on the packaging can be confusing. According to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, raw poultry must have a “pack date” and a “best if used by date” on the label.

• Pack Date: This date helps track the product in case of a foodborne illness outbreak.
• Best If Used By Date: This is more about quality than safety. Chicken past this date might not be as fresh, but it could still be safe if stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.

From a food safety perspective, the clock starts ticking as soon as you bring that chicken home. Ideally, you should use raw chicken within one to two days of purchase, regardless of what the “best if used by date” says.

Tips for Choosing and Storing Chicken

Selecting the freshest chicken begins at the grocery store. Look for packages with pink-colored flesh. Placing the chicken in a disposable bag can prevent its juices from contaminating other items in your cart.

Once home, keep the chicken in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it. Fresh chicken should feel smooth, firm, and moist, with no strong odor.

Proper storage is crucial. The CDC estimates that 1 in every 25 packages of chicken may contain Salmonella bacteria, which can lead to severe illness if the meat is mishandled. To minimize the risk, store raw chicken in the fridge at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) and place it on the bottom shelf. This prevents any drippings from contaminating other foods.

Signs of Spoiled Chicken: Quick Reference Table

A timeline showing the recommended storage durations for raw chicken in the fridge (1-2 days) and freezer (9 months for pieces, 12 months for a whole bird), as well as cooked chicken in the fridge (3-4 days).

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re planning to roast a whole chicken or whip up a quick stir-fry, the key to food safety is timing. Pay close attention to the “best if used by date,” but more importantly, trust your senses. If the chicken smells, looks, or feels off, don’t risk it—throw it out. And remember, life gets busy, so plan to cook or freeze that chicken within one to two days of purchase.

Your health is worth more than a few bucks saved by risking spoiled chicken. The CDC reports that around 1 million Americans get sick each year from improperly stored or prepared poultry. Don’t become a statistic. With a little planning, you can keep your meals safe and your family healthy.

This article focuses on helping readers understand how to store raw chicken safely and recognize signs of spoilage. It provides practical advice in a clear, relatable tone, making it easier for readers to keep their food safe.