Chicken thighs are one of those cuts of meat that can transform any meal, whether you’re baking, grilling, or slow-cooking them. They’re flavorful, juicy, and relatively forgiving compared to other cuts of chicken. But, just like with any perishable item, they come with an expiration date. Knowing how to store them, how long they last, and how to spot signs of spoilage is essential to ensuring food safety and avoiding unpleasant (and possibly dangerous) surprises in the kitchen.
Whether you’re buying a pack of chicken thighs to use within the next few days or planning to stock up for future meals, it’s important to understand how to keep them fresh and safe for consumption. So, can uncooked chicken thighs go bad? And if so, how do you spot those telltale signs before cooking them? Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know.
Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Go Bad?
Yes, uncooked chicken thighs can definitely go bad. Like all fresh poultry, chicken thighs are highly perishable, and improper handling or storage can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. Chicken, in particular, is a prime environment for bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter to grow, which are both associated with foodborne illnesses. In addition to these, other spoilage microorganisms like Pseudomonas can also affect the meat, especially when it’s been stored improperly.
But, chicken doesn’t spoil instantly. It has a shelf life that’s influenced by factors like:
- Storage temperature: Chicken should be stored at the right temperature (below 40°F) to slow down bacterial growth.
- Packaging: Chicken thighs that are sealed tightly and protected from air and moisture will last longer.
- Handling: How chicken is handled from the store to your home also matters. For example, if you leave them out at room temperature for too long, the risk of bacteria multiplying increases.
Shelf Life For Uncooked Chicken Thighs
The shelf life of uncooked chicken thighs depends on a few variables, but here’s a general guideline for how long they last under ideal conditions:
Refrigeration
- Fresh uncooked chicken thighs: 1-2 days in the fridge (below 40°F). While some sources say up to 2 days, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
- Vacuum-sealed chicken thighs: If the thighs are vacuum-sealed, they can last a bit longer in the fridge, up to 2-3 days, due to reduced exposure to air.
Freezing
- Uncooked chicken thighs in the freezer: 6-12 months. Freezing them at 0°F will keep the thighs safe indefinitely, though their texture and flavor might degrade over time. It’s best to use them within a year for optimal taste and quality.
Remember, if you buy chicken thighs in bulk or can’t use them within 1-2 days, freezing is your best option. But always note the packaging date to keep track of their maximum shelf life.
Common Signs Of Spoilage
Knowing how to spot spoiled chicken thighs is crucial to your health and safety. Here are some common signs that indicate uncooked chicken thighs are no longer good:
Foul Or Sour Smell
Chicken has a naturally mild odor, but when it goes bad, it starts to emit a strong, sour or rotten smell. If you notice an unusual or off-putting scent, it’s best to toss the chicken. Spoiled meat will begin to break down and release compounds that cause this unpleasant odor.
Slimy Or Sticky Texture
Fresh chicken thighs should feel moist but not slimy. If you touch the meat and it feels slippery, tacky, or viscous, it’s a clear indication that bacterial growth has started. This slimy texture is due to bacterial colonization breaking down the proteins in the chicken.
Discoloration
Chicken thighs should have a pinkish color when fresh. If they start to turn grayish, greenish, or brown, it’s likely they’ve gone bad. However, some discoloration can also be due to oxidation (especially in vacuum-sealed packaging), but if it’s combined with other spoilage signs, that’s a red flag.
Leaking Or Excessive Liquids
If the chicken is leaking an abnormal amount of liquid, especially if it has been left in the fridge for a few days, it could indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken does release some liquid, but when it’s turning bad, it will look overly watery or even have a cloudy appearance.
Presence Of Mold
While rare, mold can grow on chicken if it’s been stored improperly or for too long. Any sign of green, white, or black mold is a sure indicator that the chicken should be discarded.
How To Store Uncooked Chicken Thighs?
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and safety of your uncooked chicken thighs. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to store them correctly:
Refrigeration
- Wrap them tightly: If you’ve purchased chicken thighs in a butcher’s paper or plastic wrap, it’s a good idea to rewrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air.
- Keep it in the coldest part of the fridge: The ideal temperature for storing raw chicken is below 40°F. Store it in the back section of the fridge, as this area is usually the coldest.
- Do not store chicken on the fridge door: This is a warmer section of the fridge, and temperature fluctuations can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Freezing
- Vacuum-sealing: If you’re freezing chicken thighs, vacuum-sealing is ideal because it prevents air from reaching the meat, which could cause freezer burn.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers: If you don’t have a vacuum sealer, use a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Remember to press out any excess air to maintain quality.
- Label and date: When freezing, always label the packaging with the date to keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
Thawing
When it comes time to use frozen chicken thighs, the safest method is to thaw them in the refrigerator. This ensures that the meat stays at a safe temperature (below 40°F) as it thaws. If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave or cold water thawing methods, but never thaw chicken at room temperature, as this encourages bacterial growth.
Expert Tips
- Don’t leave chicken out: Never leave uncooked chicken thighs out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. In hotter weather (above 90°F), that window shrinks to 1 hour.
- Plan meals ahead: If you have a pack of chicken thighs that you’re not able to use within a day or two, freeze them immediately. This will prevent any chance of spoilage.
- Use a thermometer: If you’re unsure about the temperature of your fridge or freezer, use a food thermometer to check. Your fridge should stay at 37-40°F, and the freezer should be at 0°F or lower.
- FIFO (First In, First Out): Practice the FIFO method when storing food in your fridge. Always use the oldest chicken thighs first to ensure nothing goes to waste.
- Avoid washing raw chicken: It’s tempting to rinse raw chicken, but it can spread bacteria around your kitchen. Cook it without washing to avoid cross-contamination.
FAQs
How Long Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Stay In The Fridge Before Going Bad?
Uncooked chicken thighs can typically stay in the fridge for 1-2 days before they begin to spoil. After this period, they should be discarded to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Be Stored In The Freezer?
Yes, uncooked chicken thighs can be stored in the freezer for up to 9 months. Freezing slows down bacterial growth and preserves the meat. However, for best quality, it’s recommended to consume them within 6 months.
How Can You Tell If Uncooked Chicken Thighs Have Gone Bad?
Signs that uncooked chicken thighs have gone bad include an off smell, slimy texture, and a change in color, from pink to a dull or grayish hue. If any of these signs are present, the chicken should not be consumed.
Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Go Bad If Left At Room Temperature?
Yes, uncooked chicken thighs can go bad quickly if left at room temperature. Bacteria multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), so it’s important to refrigerate or freeze chicken within two hours of purchase or preparation.
Can You Cook Chicken Thighs That Are A Little Bit Past Their Expiration Date?
It is not recommended to cook chicken thighs that are past their expiration date, as they may contain harmful bacteria that could cause food poisoning. Always check for signs of spoilage before cooking.
What Happens If You Eat Uncooked Chicken Thighs That Have Gone Bad?
Eating uncooked chicken thighs that have gone bad can result in foodborne illness, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. This is typically caused by bacteria like Salmonella or Campylobacter.
How Should Uncooked Chicken Thighs Be Stored In The Fridge?
Uncooked chicken thighs should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent contamination from other foods. It’s best to place the chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge to avoid drips onto other items.
Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Be Stored In The Fridge After Being Frozen?
Yes, uncooked chicken thighs can be stored in the fridge after being thawed from the freezer. However, they should be cooked within 1-2 days of thawing to ensure food safety.
Can Uncooked Chicken Thighs Go Bad In Vacuum-sealed Packaging?
Vacuum-sealed chicken thighs can last longer than regular packaging, but they can still go bad over time. If stored in the fridge, they should be used within 1-2 days after opening the package, and within 9 months if kept frozen.
Is It Safe To Cook Chicken Thighs That Have Been Sitting Out Overnight?
No, it is not safe to cook chicken thighs that have been left out overnight. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, so they should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours.
