Cooked chicken lasts in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly at 40°F (4°C) or below. This timeframe is recommended by the USDA and supported by multiple food safety sources
. Key points for safe storage:
- Refrigerate cooked chicken within 2 hours of cooking to slow bacterial growth
- Store in airtight containers or tightly wrapped to maintain freshness and prevent contamination
- If you don’t plan to eat it within 3-4 days, freezing is recommended; cooked chicken can last 2 to 6 months in the freezer
Signs that cooked chicken has gone bad include:
- Sour or unpleasant smell
- Grey or green discoloration
- Slimy or moist texture
While some anecdotal reports suggest cooked chicken might last longer (up to 7 days or more), these are not aligned with official food safety guidelines and carry a higher risk of foodborne illness
. In summary, to ensure safety and quality, consume cooked chicken within 3 to 4 days of refrigeration. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is the safer option.
