Cooked chicken is a staple in many households, and it’s essential to handle and store it safely to prevent foodborne illnesses. One of the most common questions people ask is, “How long can you leave cooked chicken out before refrigerating?” The answer is not as simple as it seems, and it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of food safety and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to handle and store cooked chicken.
Understanding the Risks of Foodborne Illnesses
Foodborne illnesses are a significant public health concern, and they can be caused by consuming contaminated or spoiled food. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 48 million people in the United States get sick from foodborne illnesses each year. Of these, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die.
Cooked chicken is a high-risk food for foodborne illnesses, particularly when it’s not handled and stored properly. Bacteria like Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Clostridium perfringens can multiply rapidly on cooked chicken, especially when it’s left at room temperature for an extended period.
The Danger Zone: Bacterial Growth and Temperature
Bacteria grow rapidly in the “danger zone,” which is the temperature range between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). This range is ideal for bacterial growth, and it’s essential to keep cooked chicken out of this zone to prevent contamination.
When cooked chicken is left at room temperature, bacteria can multiply rapidly. For example, Salmonella can multiply from a few cells to millions in just a few hours. This is why it’s crucial to refrigerate cooked chicken promptly and keep it at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Temperature Control: The Key to Food Safety
Temperature control is critical when it comes to food safety. Cooked chicken should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking, or within one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). This is because bacteria can multiply rapidly in the danger zone, and refrigeration slows down this process.
When refrigerating cooked chicken, it’s essential to use shallow containers to help it cool down quickly. You can also use ice packs or cold water to speed up the cooling process. Once the chicken is refrigerated, it’s crucial to keep it at a consistent temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
How Long Can You Leave Cooked Chicken Out Before Refrigerating?
Now that we’ve discussed the risks of foodborne illnesses and the importance of temperature control, let’s answer the question: how long can you leave cooked chicken out before refrigerating?
The answer is simple: it’s not recommended to leave cooked chicken out for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). This is because bacteria can multiply rapidly in the danger zone, and refrigeration slows down this process.
However, if you’re unable to refrigerate cooked chicken within this timeframe, there are some alternatives. For example, you can use a chafing dish with a heat source to keep the chicken at a temperature above 140°F (60°C). You can also use a cold source, such as ice packs or cold water, to keep the chicken at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
Safe Handling and Storage Practices
In addition to refrigerating cooked chicken promptly, there are some safe handling and storage practices you can follow to prevent foodborne illnesses:
- Always wash your hands before and after handling cooked chicken.
- Use clean utensils and cutting boards when handling cooked chicken.
- Store cooked chicken in shallow containers to help it cool down quickly.
- Label and date cooked chicken containers so you can easily identify how long they’ve been stored.
- Cooked chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for three to four days, or frozen for four to six months.
Cooked Chicken Storage Chart
| Storage Method | Storage Time |
| — | — |
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days |
| Freezing | 4-6 months |
Freezing Cooked Chicken: A Safe and Convenient Option
Freezing cooked chicken is a safe and convenient option for long-term storage. When frozen, cooked chicken can be safely stored for four to six months. However, it’s essential to follow some guidelines when freezing cooked chicken:
- Always use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label and date frozen cooked chicken containers so you can easily identify how long they’ve been stored.
- Frozen cooked chicken should be thawed in the refrigerator or in cold water, never at room temperature.
Reheating Cooked Chicken: Safety Precautions
When reheating cooked chicken, it’s essential to follow some safety precautions to prevent foodborne illnesses:
- Always reheat cooked chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature.
- Never reheat cooked chicken at room temperature, always use a heat source, such as a microwave or oven.
Reheating Cooked Chicken: Methods and Safety Precautions
| Reheating Method | Safety Precautions |
| — | — |
| Microwave | Cover the chicken with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent moisture from escaping. Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). |
| Oven | Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a covered dish and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). |
In conclusion, cooked chicken can be safely left out for two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), before refrigerating. However, it’s essential to follow safe handling and storage practices to prevent foodborne illnesses. By understanding the risks of foodborne illnesses, the importance of temperature control, and safe handling and storage practices, you can enjoy cooked chicken while keeping you and your family safe.
What is the safe internal temperature for cooked chicken?
Cooked chicken should be heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. This is especially important when reheating cooked chicken, as bacteria can multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when reheating chicken in the microwave or oven.
It’s also essential to note that even if the chicken looks and smells fine, it can still be contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella or Campylobacter. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. By heating the chicken to a safe internal temperature, you can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
How long can raw chicken be stored in the refrigerator?
Raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for one to two days. It’s essential to store it in a sealed container at the bottom of the refrigerator to prevent juices from leaking onto other foods. Make sure to keep the chicken at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. If you don’t plan to use the chicken within a day or two, consider freezing it to prevent spoilage.
When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it’s also crucial to prevent cross-contamination. Keep the chicken away from ready-to-eat foods, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the chicken. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Can I freeze chicken for an extended period?
Yes, you can freeze chicken for an extended period. In fact, freezing is one of the best ways to preserve chicken and prevent spoilage. When stored properly in airtight containers or freezer bags, frozen chicken can last for up to a year. It’s essential to label the containers or bags with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long the chicken has been frozen.
When freezing chicken, it’s crucial to prevent freezer burn. This can occur when the chicken is exposed to air, causing the formation of ice crystals on the surface. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags before sealing. You can also wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the container or bag.
How do I thaw frozen chicken safely?
There are three safe ways to thaw frozen chicken: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. When thawing in the refrigerator, place the chicken in a sealed container or bag on the middle or bottom shelf. Allow about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of chicken. When thawing in cold water, submerge the chicken in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. When thawing in the microwave, follow the defrosting instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Regardless of the thawing method, it’s essential to cook the chicken immediately after thawing. Never thaw chicken at room temperature, as bacteria can multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling thawed chicken, and cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
What are the signs of spoiled chicken?
Spoiled chicken can exhibit several signs, including an off smell, slimy texture, and mold growth. If the chicken has a strong, unpleasant odor or a sour smell, it’s likely spoiled. Check the texture of the chicken by touching it gently; if it feels slimy or sticky, it’s probably spoiled. Look for visible signs of mold growth, such as green or black patches on the surface.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the chicken. Spoiled chicken can contain bacteria like Salmonella or Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning. Always prioritize food safety when handling and storing chicken, and never consume chicken that’s past its expiration date or shows signs of spoilage.
Can I store cooked chicken at room temperature?
No, it’s not recommended to store cooked chicken at room temperature for an extended period. Cooked chicken should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking, or within one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Bacteria can multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), so it’s essential to keep cooked chicken refrigerated to prevent foodborne illness.
When storing cooked chicken in the refrigerator, make sure to place it in a sealed container and keep it at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Cooked chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for three to four days. If you don’t plan to use it within this timeframe, consider freezing it to prevent spoilage.
How do I handle chicken safely when grilling or barbecuing?
When grilling or barbecuing chicken, it’s essential to handle it safely to prevent foodborne illness. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the chicken, and make sure to clean and sanitize any utensils and cutting boards. Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
When grilling or barbecuing, cook the chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking chicken breasts or thighs. Never leave cooked chicken at room temperature for an extended period; refrigerate it within two hours of cooking, or within one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C).