Cooked chicken is a delicious and versatile ingredient, but it can be challenging to store it properly in the refrigerator. Improper storage can lead to foodborne illness and spoilage, which can be unsafe and unpleasant. In this article, we'll explore the best techniques for storing cooked chicken in the refrigerator to keep it safe and fresh. Get ready to learn how to store your cooked chicken like a pro with our helpful tips and tricks.
How to Store Cooked Chicken in a Fridge?
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Here are some tips for storing cooked chicken in the refrigerator:
Place cooked chicken in its original container or pack it in an airtight container, heavy-duty freezer bag or plastic storage container. This will keep air out and keep the chicken fresher longer.
Store the chicken as soon as possible after cooking or purchasing. Do not leave it sitting at room temperature.
Divide larger pieces of chicken like whole chickens or thigh quarters into smaller portions. This allows for faster cooling and better preservation.
For food safety, the internal temperature should be 40 F or below within 2 hours of cooking or removing from store packaging.
Use within 3 to 4 days. Cooked chicken will stay fresh longer if stored properly in the refrigerator.
Keep chicken separate from its original juices or broth while storing to prevent an odor transfer. The juices can be refrigerated separately in an airtight container or ice cube trays for use in soups, stews or other recipes.
For best quality, use chicken within 5 days. It will still be safe to eat for a couple days after but the texture and moisture content may start to deteriorate.
When reheating cooked chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F to ensure food safety. You can reheat chicken in the oven, microwave or stovetop.
Frozen cooked chicken will last up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using. Do not thaw chicken on the counter.
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Label and date the containers so you use the chicken before its expiration. This will help prevent food waste.
For extra food safety, you can pack cooked chicken in freezer bags and then reseal the bags before storing in the freezer. This prevents freezer burn when reheating or using portions from the bag.
Keep chicken separate from other foods while refrigerating to avoid cross-contamination. Place broths, juices and sauces in separate containers to avoid transfer of odors or flavors.
Conclusion
Storing cooked chicken properly in the refrigerator is essential to prevent foodborne illness and ensure its freshness. Remember to store cooked chicken at or below 40°F, use an airtight container, and consume it within three to four days. If in doubt, discard any cooked chicken that looks or smells off to avoid the risk of food poisoning. With the right storage techniques, you can enjoy delicious and safe cooked chicken meals from your refrigerator.
