How long does cooked chicken last in the fridge?

Eating leftovers instead of cooking can be a lifesaver during a busy week, but knowing how to store them properly is essential. It’s particularly important to store leftover chicken safely, to avoid stomach upsets.

Cooked chicken lasts for around 48 hours in the fridge, and much longer if you pop it in your freezer. Here’s how to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.

Use airtight containers

Cooked chicken needs to be stored in an airtight container, to prevent it from drying out and cross-contaminating other foods in your fridge. It’s best to use a reusable plastic tub.

Cool before storing

Before popping it into your fridge, always let chicken cool completely. Storing it when it’s still warm creates condensation, which encourages bacterial growth – not something you’ll want to find in your dinner.

Once your chicken has completely cooled down, ensure it’s in the fridge within two hours.

Watch for signs of spoilage

Even if your cooked chicken has been stored correctly within the 48-hour window, you should always inspect it before you eat it. The “sniff test” is helpful but isn’t always reliable.

Discard the chicken straight away if you notice:

A sour or unpleasant smell
A slimy or sticky texture
Discoloration

When in doubt, freeze it

If you want to store cooked chicken for longer than a couple of days, you’ll need to freeze it. Use a resealable freezer bag or airtight container and it’ll keep for around four months.

When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and consume within 24 hours.

Helpful tips

1. Always stick to use-by dates when it comes to poultry.
2. Your fridge temperature should be between 0 and 5°C.
3. Chicken must be cooked thoroughly all the way through until the juices run clear. For extra peace of mind, use a food thermometer.
4. When reheating leftovers, always make sure they’re steaming hot and that they reach a temperature of at least 75°C, to kill any lurking bacteria.
5. Cooked and raw meats must be kept separate in the fridge.

Following this simple guidance helps you make the most of your leftovers and avoid food waste.