Can Chicken Thighs Go Bad : What You MUST Know

If you’ve ever wondered how long you can keep those chicken thighs sitting in your fridge or what signs to look for before you toss them in the trash, this guide will cover everything you need to know. Let’s break down the essentials on chicken thigh spoilage, how to store them, and how to keep your meals both safe and tasty.

Can Chicken Thighs Go Bad?

Absolutely, chicken thighs can go bad-just like any other raw or cooked poultry. Fresh chicken thighs are rich in moisture, which is a breeding ground for bacteria when not stored or handled correctly.

Here are some important factors that contribute to chicken thighs going bad:

• Bacterial Growth: Salmonella and Campylobacter are common bacteria found in raw chicken. If chicken thighs are left out at room temperature for too long or improperly stored, bacteria can multiply rapidly.
• Enzyme Activity: Even when frozen, the enzymes in chicken meat can cause a degradation of texture and flavor over time, which may not make it “bad” in the dangerous sense, but it can still impact taste and quality.
• Oxidation: The fat in chicken thighs can oxidize, leading to a rancid smell or taste when stored improperly.

Shelf Life For Chicken Thighs

The shelf life of chicken thighs depends largely on how they are stored. Let’s break this down into raw and cooked chicken thighs:

Raw Chicken Thighs

• Refrigerator (40°F or below): Fresh raw chicken thighs typically last for 1-2 days in the fridge before they begin to spoil. This is why it’s important to either cook them quickly or freeze them.
• Freezer (0°F or below): If you don’t plan to cook the chicken within a couple of days, you can freeze raw chicken thighs to extend their shelf life. In the freezer, they will last for 6-9 months while maintaining the best quality. Beyond that, they may still be safe to eat, but the taste and texture may degrade.

Cooked Chicken Thighs

• Refrigerator: Cooked chicken thighs, when stored in an airtight container, will last 3-4 days in the fridge. After this period, bacteria can start to grow, and you may notice changes in flavor or texture.
• Freezer: If you’re planning to store cooked chicken thighs for a longer period, freezing them is the way to go. Properly sealed cooked chicken thighs can last 2-6 months in the freezer.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

You don’t have to guess whether chicken thighs are still good. There are clear signs to look out for, both with raw and cooked chicken thighs:

Raw Chicken Thighs

• Smell: A sour, pungent, or off smell is the most obvious indicator that your chicken thighs have gone bad. Fresh raw chicken has a light, neutral smell. Anything strong or acidic means it’s time to toss them.
• Color: Raw chicken thighs should be pale pink, with the fat having a white or light beige color. If they start turning grayish or green, it’s a sign of spoilage. Yellowing fat could also indicate the meat is starting to go bad.
• Texture: Raw chicken should feel moist, but not slimy or sticky. If the chicken feels slimy, it is likely a result of bacterial growth, and it’s time to dispose of it.
• Packaging: If the packaging is bloated or compromised in any way, the chicken may have been exposed to air or bacteria and should be discarded.

Cooked Chicken Thighs

• Smell: Spoiled cooked chicken will emit a foul, rancid smell. A fresh, cooked chicken thigh should have a savory, slightly roasted aroma.
• Texture: If the chicken feels dry, slimy, or mushy, it may have spoiled, even if it doesn’t have an off smell. The texture of cooked chicken should be firm but tender.
• Color: Discoloration can also be a sign of spoilage. If cooked chicken begins to look dull, brown, or greenish, it may not be safe to eat anymore.

How To Store Chicken Thighs?

Proper storage of chicken thighs, whether raw or cooked, is critical in prolonging their shelf life and preventing spoilage. Here’s how to store them in the best possible way:

Storing Raw Chicken Thighs

• In the Fridge: Store raw chicken thighs in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at the back, where temperatures are most consistent. Keep the chicken in its original packaging or place it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. To minimize cross-contamination, avoid placing it directly on other foods.
• In the Freezer: When freezing raw chicken thighs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. You can also use a vacuum sealer if you have one. Label the packaging with the date so you know when they were frozen.

Storing Cooked Chicken Thighs

• In the Fridge: After cooking, allow the chicken thighs to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours. Then, store them in an airtight container to retain moisture. If possible, separate the chicken thighs from any sauces to preserve the quality of the meat.
• In the Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cooked chicken thighs in a tightly sealed container or freezer-safe bag. You can even portion the chicken for easy meal prepping. Just remember to label it with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.

Expert Tips

When it comes to keeping chicken thighs fresh and safe to eat, a few expert tips can go a long way:

• Don’t Let Chicken Sit Out: Raw chicken should never be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If it’s a hot day (over 90°F), reduce this time to just 1 hour.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Always ensure your chicken thighs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat, killing off harmful bacteria.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Don’t rely on visual cues alone. A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
• Reheat Only Once: If you have leftovers, reheat them thoroughly, but avoid reheating multiple times as this can promote bacterial growth.

FAQs

How Can I Tell If Chicken Thighs Have Gone Bad?

To determine if chicken thighs have gone bad, check for off smells, slimy texture, or discoloration. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color and a neutral, slightly meaty smell. If the chicken has turned gray or green, or if there is a foul odor, it has likely spoiled.

How Long Can Chicken Thighs Stay Fresh In The Fridge?

Raw chicken thighs can last 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored at or below 40°F (4°C). Cooked chicken thighs can last up to 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Can Chicken Thighs Go Bad If Left Out Overnight?

Yes, chicken thighs can go bad if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria grow rapidly between 40°F and 140°F, so it’s unsafe to eat chicken that has been left out overnight.

Can You Freeze Chicken Thighs To Extend Their Shelf Life?

Yes, chicken thighs can be frozen to extend their shelf life. When stored properly in airtight packaging or a freezer bag, they can last for up to 9 months in the freezer without significant loss of quality.

What Is The Best Way To Store Raw Chicken Thighs To Prevent Them From Going Bad?

To store raw chicken thighs safely, keep them in their original packaging or place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store them on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent any juices from contaminating other foods.

How Long Can Cooked Chicken Thighs Be Stored In The Refrigerator?

Cooked chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Be sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container as soon as possible after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

Can Chicken Thighs Go Bad In The Freezer?

Chicken thighs can go bad in the freezer if stored improperly or for too long. While freezing halts bacterial growth, chicken thighs will lose their best quality after 9 months. After this period, they may still be safe to eat but will have a degraded texture and flavor.

What Does Spoiled Chicken Thighs Smell Like?

Spoiled chicken thighs typically have a sour or rotten odor. If the chicken gives off a pungent, foul, or sulfuric smell, it is a clear indication that it has gone bad and should not be consumed.

Is It Safe To Eat Chicken Thighs That Have Been Stored In The Fridge For 4 Days?

It is generally not recommended to eat chicken thighs that have been in the refrigerator for more than 3 to 4 days. After this time, bacteria may have grown to unsafe levels, even if the chicken appears and smells fine.

How Can I Extend The Shelf Life Of Chicken Thighs In The Fridge?

To extend the shelf life of chicken thighs in the fridge, make sure to store them in an airtight container or securely wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. Ensure your refrigerator is set at or below 40°F (4°C) and avoid keeping the chicken in the fridge for more than 1 to 2 days.