How Long Does Cooked Chicken Last in the Fridge?
Published · 4 min read
Cooked chicken lasts 3–4 days in the fridge and 2–4 months in the freezer. Raw chicken lasts only 1–2 days in the fridge.
Chicken storage times
| Chicken | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Raw chicken (breast, thighs, whole) | 1–2 days | 9–12 months |
| Cooked chicken, pieces or shredded | 3–4 days | 2–4 months |
| Rotisserie chicken | 3–4 days | 2–4 months |
| Chicken soup or curry | 3–4 days | 4–6 months |
| Chicken salad | 3–4 days | Don’t freeze |
How to store cooked chicken
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking (1 hour on a hot day).
- Take the meat off the bone and store it in shallow, airtight containers so it cools fast.
- Label the container with the date.
Reheating
Reheat until steaming hot all the way through, 74 °C (165 °F). Add a splash of stock or water and cover it so it doesn’t dry out. Reheat only once.
Signs chicken has gone bad
A sour smell, a slimy or sticky surface, or a grey-green color. When in doubt, throw it out.
Use it up with our leftover chicken recipes, like a healthy chicken salad. More foods in the fridge storage chart.
Questions
How long does cooked chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or below. This includes rotisserie chicken.
How long does raw chicken last in the fridge?
Raw chicken keeps for 1–2 days in the fridge. Freeze it if you won’t cook it by then.
Can I eat cooked chicken after 5 days?
It’s not recommended. Bacteria can grow without changing the smell or look of the chicken, so throw it out after 4 days.
