You open the fridge, spot that container of leftover chicken from a few nights ago, and wonder:
“Is this still safe to eat?”
Leftover chicken can be a tasty, time-saving meal — or a risky bite that leads to food poisoning if you’re not careful. The line between safe and spoiled isn’t always obvious, but there are clear guidelines that can help you decide whether to dig in or toss it.
Groceries
Let’s walk through how long cooked chicken lasts, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and the safest way to reheat it. Plus, enjoy a quick, healthy recipe you can make with leftover chicken that is still safe to eat.
🕒 How Long Is Leftover Chicken Safe to Eat?
According to the USDA and food safety experts:
Cooked chicken is safe in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
In the freezer, cooked chicken can last up to 2 to 6 months (though quality may decline over time).
⏰ If your chicken is older than 4 days in the fridge, it’s best to play it safe and throw it out.
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