How Long Does Chicken Last? Fridge, Freezer & Spoilage
Raw chicken gives you 1-2 days max. Don't risk it! If it's slimy or smells sour, it's dangerous. Learn the strict fridge rules, how to handle leftovers, and why the freezer is your best friend for poultry.
Spoilage Signs
- ⚠️ odor: putrid or sour smell
- ⚠️ texture: slimy surface
- ⚠️ color: gray or green tinge
- ⚠️ appearance: iridescent sheen
Is it spoiled?
Check specific signs of spoilage for Chicken
Expiration Calculator
Calculate exact shelf life based on purchase date
Shelf Life Guide
| Type | State | Pantry | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Chicken | fresh | Not Recommended | 1-2 days | 12 months |
| Packaged Deli meat Luncheon meat Chicken | fresh | Not Recommended | 2 weeks | 4 weeks - 2 months |
| Packaged Deli meat Luncheon meat Chicken | opened | Not Recommended | 3-5 days | Not Recommended |
Data Source: USDA FoodKeeper App
Storage guidelines are based on research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Cornell University.
Chicken Safety Guide: Raw vs. Cooked Storage Times
Chicken is a staple protein, but it is also one of the most common sources of food poisoning (Salmonella and Campylobacter) if stored incorrectly. The window for safety is small.
Raw vs. Cooked: Know the Numbers
- Raw Whole Chicken:
- Fridge: 1 to 2 days.
- Freezer: 1 year (360 days).
- Raw Chicken Parts (Breast/Thighs):
- Fridge: 1 to 2 days.
- Freezer: 9 months.
- Cooked Chicken (Leftovers):
- Fridge: 3 to 5 days (standard advice is 3-4, max 5).
- Freezer: 4 to 6 months.
Deli Meat
- Unopened: Lasts 2 weeks (14 days).
- Opened: Use within 3 to 5 days.
How to Spot Bad Chicken
Trust your senses. If you are unsure, throw it out. The risk is not worth it.
- Texture (The Touch Test): Fresh chicken is glossy and slightly moist. Bad chicken feels slimy, sticky, or tacky. If slime stays on your finger after touching it, toss it.
- Smell: A sour, ammonia, or “off” odor is a definitive sign of spoilage.
- Color: Fresh chicken is pink/flesh-colored. If it turns gray, green, or dull, it is unsafe.
Storage Tips
- Bottom Shelf: Always store raw chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
- Airtight: Keep it in the original package or seal tightly to prevent cross-contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cooked chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken is safe for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. After that, bacterial growth increases the risk of foodborne illness.
What does raw chicken smell like?
Fresh raw chicken has very little smell. If it smells sour, pungent, or like rotten eggs, it is spoiled. Do not cook it.
How long does chicken stay fresh in the fridge?
Raw chicken is very perishable and lasts only 1 to 2 days. If you don't plan to cook it immediately, freeze it.