Cooked chicken is one of the most popular proteins to include in a meal. Whether you have leftover chicken or have cooked chicken specifically for later, it’s important to store it correctly in order to keep it safe to eat. In this article, we will look at how long cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge, and how to keep it safe for consumption.
Storing Cooked Chicken
When storing cooked chicken, it is important to make sure that it is stored in an airtight container or sealed bag. This will help to prevent the chicken from spoiling and make it last longer. It is also important to keep the cooked chicken in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cooking. The temperature of the cooked chicken should be below 4°C.
How Long is Safe?
When stored correctly, cooked chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to four days. After this time, the cooked chicken should be discarded as it may have gone bad. If the cooked chicken has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded as it may have been contaminated.
It is also important to note that cooked chicken should not be frozen, as this can cause the chicken to become dry and tough.
In conclusion, cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to four days if it is stored correctly. It is important to ensure that the cooked chicken is refrigerated as soon as possible after cooking, and that it is stored in an airtight container. If the cooked chicken has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded as it may have been contaminated.