Raw chicken is a staple in many kitchens, prized for its versatility and ability to complement various cuisines. However, improper handling and storing of raw chicken can pose serious health risks. Whether you’re new to cooking, a health enthusiast seeking safe food practices, or a new parent preparing meals for your family, understanding how to store raw chicken properly is crucial.
This article will explore how long raw chicken can safely be kept in the fridge, tips for proper storage, identifying spoiled chicken, and essential advice for food safety practices.
The Basic Rule: How Long Can Raw Chicken Stay in the Fridge?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that raw chicken, whether whole or in pieces like breasts, thighs, or wings, can only be stored in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or less. This applies to store-bought chicken as well as fresh chicken from a butcher.
The short storage time is due to the high perishability of poultry. Chickens can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which multiply quickly if the meat is improperly stored or kept for too long.
Why Is Refrigeration Time Limited?
Refrigeration slows bacterial growth but doesn’t completely halt it. Over time, even in the fridge, these bacteria can grow to unsafe levels, making the chicken unsuitable for consumption.
To extend the storage time beyond 1-2 days, freezing is your best option. Frozen raw chicken can last up to 9 months for whole pieces and up to 1 year if stored in airtight packaging.
How to Properly Store Raw Chicken in the Fridge
Correct storage practices are essential to maximize food safety and prevent cross-contamination in your refrigerator. Follow these steps to store chicken effectively:
1. Keep It in an Airtight Package
Raw chicken is typically sold in plastic packaging, often sufficient for short-term storage. However, for added protection, place the chicken in a leak-proof, zip-top bag to prevent juices from contaminating other foods.
2. Store It on the Bottom Shelf
Always store raw chicken on the bottom shelf or in a designated meat drawer in your fridge. This prevents accidental drips from contaminating fruits, vegetables, or ready-to-eat foods stored below.
3. Maintain a Safe Fridge Temperature
Ensure your refrigerator consistently stays below 40°F (4°C). Use a reliable kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature regularly.
4. Keep It Separate
If you’re storing multiple types of meat in the fridge, keep the raw chicken in a separate compartment or tray to avoid cross-contact with other proteins.
How to Identify Spoiled Chicken
Even if you’ve followed proper storage guidelines, it’sinspecting your raw chicken before cooking is essential. Here’s how to tell if raw chicken has gone bad:
1. Check the Smell
Spoiled chicken will emit a sour, pungent odor that is unmistakable. Fresh chicken should have little to no smell.
2. Examine the Texture
If the surface of the chicken feels slimy or sticky, it’s a sign that bacteria have started growing.
3. Look at the Color
Fresh raw chicken is typically pink with a slight sheen. If it has turned gray or developed greenish spots, it’s no longer safe to eat.
If your chicken shows any of these signs, discard it immediately. Attempting to cook spoiled chicken won’t make it safe for consumption, as some toxins produced by bacteria aren’t destroyed by heat.
Best Practices for Handling Raw Chicken
Handling raw chicken with care is as important as storing it properly. To create a safe cooking environment, follow these tips:
1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Before and after handling raw chicken, wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. This prevents the spread of bacteria to other surfaces and foods.
2. Don’t Wash Raw Chicken
Contrary to popular belief, washing raw chicken can spread bacteria to nearby surfaces and utensils via splashing water. Instead, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking.
3. Use Separate Utensils
Designate separate cutting boards and knives for raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination with other foods like vegetables or cooked proteins.
4. Cook to the Correct Temperature
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This eliminates harmful bacteria.
Extending Storage Time by Freezing
If you have raw chicken but aren’t planning to use it within 1-2 days, freezing is a safe and effective option. Here’s how to properly freeze raw chicken:
Wrap It Tightly: Use freezer-safe zip-top bags or vacuum-sealed packaging to prevent freezer burn.
Portion It Out: Divide chicken into smaller portions before freezing. This makes thawing only what you need for a single meal easier.
Label with Dates: Always note the freezing date to track how long it has been stored.
Thaw frozen chicken overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Avoid thawing chicken at room temperature, leading to rapid bacterial growth.
The Risks of Eating Expired Raw Chicken
Consuming raw chicken past its recommended storage time can lead to foodborne illnesses, which may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are especially at risk.
By adhering to proper storage, handling, and cooking practices, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with raw chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if raw chicken has gone bad?
Spoiled raw chicken may have a sour or unpleasant odor, a slimy or sticky texture, or a noticeable color change, often appearing gray or greenish. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the chicken to avoid potential health risks.
How long can raw chicken be safely stored in the refrigerator?
Raw chicken should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or lower and consumed within 1-2 days. If you cannot use it within this timeframe, consider freezing it to extend its shelf life.
Can cooking expired chicken make it safe to eat?
While thorough cooking can kill bacteria, it does not eliminate toxins produced by certain bacteria or reverse spoilage. If the chicken shows signs of spoilage, it is unsafe to eat even after cooking and should be discarded.
What is the best way to store raw chicken to prevent contamination?
To minimize the risk of contamination, store raw chicken in a sealed container or a leak-proof bag on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator. This prevents raw juices from dripping onto other foods and reduces the chance of cross-contamination.
Final Thoughts
Now that you understand the guidelines for storing raw chicken, you can confidently keep your family safe while whipping delicious meals. Always remember these key points:
- Raw chicken can be safely stored in the fridge for 1-2 days.
- Proper storage and handling are crucial, such as using airtight packaging and washing hands.
- When in doubt, trust your senses—if the chicken smells terrible or feels slimy, discard it.
Safe food practices start with knowledge. If you’re looking for more expert tips on food safety and storage, subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed.
