Can Chicken Go Bad : What You MUST Know

Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins in the world, commonly found in kitchens across the globe. Whether you’re grilling, frying, roasting, or slow-cooking it, there’s no denying that chicken makes up a large portion of daily meals. But with great usage comes the critical question: How do we know if our chicken is still safe to eat? Chicken, like other meats, has a relatively short shelf life and can spoil if not stored properly. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of chicken spoilage, how to extend its shelf life, and how to tell if it’s gone bad before you take a bite. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about chicken safety!

Can Chicken Go Bad?

Absolutely, chicken can go bad, and it does so quite quickly if not handled or stored properly. Like any other fresh meat, chicken is highly perishable. Raw chicken, especially, is vulnerable to bacterial growth like Salmonella or Campylobacter, which can cause foodborne illnesses if consumed. These bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, which is why chicken needs to be refrigerated or frozen immediately after purchase.

Spoiled chicken doesn’t just smell bad, but consuming it could lead to some serious digestive issues. That’s why understanding its shelf life, the signs of spoilage, and proper storage is crucial in preventing food poisoning.

Shelf Life For Chicken

How long can you actually keep chicken before it becomes unsafe to eat? Well, that depends on how the chicken is stored. Let’s break down the general shelf life of chicken, depending on its form and how it’s stored:

• Raw Chicken (Refrigerated)

  • 3-4 days: Fresh, raw chicken should be used within 3-4 days if kept in the refrigerator (at or below 40°F / 4°C). After this point, the risk of bacterial growth significantly increases, and it could potentially become unsafe to eat.

• Cooked Chicken (Refrigerated)

  • 3-4 days: Once cooked, chicken can last a little longer in the fridge. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped. If it has been more than four days, it’s best to discard it.

• Raw Chicken (Frozen)

  • Up to 1 year: When raw chicken is frozen, its shelf life extends significantly. Whole chickens can last up to a year, while parts like chicken breasts, thighs, and wings can last around 9 months in the freezer.

• Cooked Chicken (Frozen)

  • 4 months: Cooked chicken, when frozen, will retain its best quality for about 4 months. While it’s safe to eat beyond that, the taste and texture may degrade.

• Ground Chicken (Frozen Or Refrigerated)

  • Refrigerated (1-2 days), Frozen (3-4 months): Ground chicken is more perishable than whole pieces because of its increased surface area. It should be used quickly in the refrigerator but can last a few months in the freezer.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

So, how do you know if chicken has gone bad? It’s not always about the expiration date; sometimes chicken can spoil before or after the printed date. Here’s what to look for when inspecting your chicken:

• Smell: One of the easiest ways to tell if chicken is spoiled is by its smell. Fresh chicken typically has very little odor. If it smells sour, rancid, or off in any way, it’s definitely spoiled and should be discarded. Bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli produce foul odors as they grow.
• Color: Fresh chicken usually has a pale pink hue. If it begins to turn gray or greenish, that’s a clear sign of spoilage. The color change may be subtle, so it’s essential to inspect it closely.
• Texture: Fresh chicken is moist but not slimy. If you touch it and it feels sticky or slimy, it’s probably past its prime. While rinsing chicken might remove some sliminess, it doesn’t eliminate bacterial growth, so if the texture feels off, don’t risk it.
• Packaging: If you notice that the packaging is bloated or puffed up, it could be a sign that bacteria are rapidly multiplying inside. If the package is damaged or leaking, it’s best to discard the chicken immediately.
• Expiration Date: While not always the most reliable indicator, it’s a good rule of thumb. If the chicken is past its expiration or “use by” date, give it a close inspection. However, keep in mind that expiration dates are generally based on ideal storage conditions, so if the chicken has been mishandled or improperly stored, it could spoil sooner.

How To Store Chicken?

Proper storage is essential to keeping chicken fresh for as long as possible and preventing it from spoiling prematurely. Here’s a detailed guide on how to store both raw and cooked chicken:

Raw Chicken Storage

• Refrigeration: If you plan to use the chicken within 1-2 days, keep it in its original packaging and store it on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator. This prevents any juices from dripping onto other foods and potentially contaminating them. The fridge should be set to 40°F or lower.
• Freezing: For longer storage, raw chicken can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date you’re freezing it to keep track. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator, not on the counter, to avoid bacteria growth.

Cooked Chicken Storage

• Refrigeration: Cooked chicken should be stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents the chicken from drying out and also prevents cross-contamination from other foods in the fridge.
• Freezing: To freeze cooked chicken, allow it to cool completely first, and then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. If you plan on freezing it for an extended period, consider cutting it into smaller portions to make defrosting easier when needed.

General Storage Tips

• Never leave chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour in hot weather). Bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature.
• Thaw chicken in the fridge, not on the counter. If you need to thaw chicken quickly, you can use the microwave or a cold water bath (but cook it immediately after).
• Use airtight containers for storing both raw and cooked chicken to keep out moisture, air, and bacteria.

Expert Tips

To ensure the safety and quality of your chicken, here are some pro tips from food safety experts:

• Don’t rinse raw chicken: Rinsing raw chicken can actually spread bacteria onto your sink and kitchen surfaces. Any bacteria on the chicken will be killed when it’s cooked properly, so rinsing is unnecessary.
• Invest in a food thermometer: Cooking chicken to the proper internal temperature (165°F / 74°C) is essential for ensuring it’s safe to eat. A food thermometer is a quick and reliable way to check the doneness of your chicken.
• Label and date your freezer items: When freezing chicken, always label it with the date so you know how long it’s been stored. This way, you can use older items first and reduce the chances of forgetting about them.
• Don’t trust color alone: While the color of cooked chicken can give you an idea of doneness, the most accurate way to check if it’s fully cooked is with a thermometer. Even fully cooked chicken can sometimes appear pink near the bone, but it’s not an indicator that it’s unsafe.

FAQs

How Long Can Chicken Stay Good In The Fridge?

Raw chicken can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Cooked chicken can last up to 3-4 days if kept in an airtight container.

How Can You Tell If Chicken Has Gone Bad?

Signs that chicken has gone bad include a sour or off smell, slimy texture, and a change in color, usually turning gray or green. If the chicken feels sticky or tacky to the touch, it is also a sign of spoilage.

Can You Eat Chicken After The Sell-by Date?

While the sell-by date is not an absolute indication of safety, chicken should generally be used within 1-2 days of the sell-by date if kept refrigerated. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

How Long Can Chicken Be Frozen Before It Goes Bad?

Frozen chicken can remain safe to eat indefinitely if kept at 0°F (-18°C), but for optimal quality, it should be consumed within 6 months to a year. After this period, the texture and flavor may degrade.

Can Cooked Chicken Go Bad?

Yes, cooked chicken can go bad. It should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days. If not stored properly or left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it can develop harmful bacteria.

What Happens If You Eat Bad Chicken?

Eating bad chicken can lead to food poisoning, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious health complications, especially in vulnerable individuals.

How Should Chicken Be Stored To Prevent It From Going Bad?

To prevent chicken from going bad, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic or foil. Always refrigerate raw chicken at 40°F (4°C) or lower and cooked chicken at the same temperature. If freezing, ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Can Chicken Go Bad If Left Out Overnight?

Yes, chicken should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). After this time, bacteria can grow rapidly, making it unsafe to eat.

What Is The Best Way To Thaw Chicken To Prevent Spoilage?

The best way to thaw chicken is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you need to thaw it quickly, you can use the microwave or submerge it in cold water, but it should be cooked immediately afterward.

Does Chicken Spoil Faster If It’s Marinated?

Marinating chicken does not significantly speed up spoilage, but it is important to store marinated chicken in the refrigerator and use it within the same timeframe as raw chicken-1-2 days. Marinated chicken should not be left at room temperature for long periods.