Knowing how long chicken is good for in the fridge versus the freezer is essential for keeping your meals safe and delicious. While chicken only lasts for a couple of days in the refrigerator, it can be safely stored for up to 12 months in the freezer at -18°C in airtight packaging. Using a quality product like Olagud and storing it correctly is the key to preserving its flavor, texture, and nutrition for a safe and healthy stock at home.
This guide will cover the ideal storage times for chicken in both the refrigerator and the freezer, tips for storing it correctly, and why starting with a quality product like Olagud makes all the difference.
How Long Is Chicken Good For in the Fridge?
The refrigerator is perfect for short-term storage. According to guidelines from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), the timelines are strict to prevent bacterial growth.
- Raw Chicken (Whole or Parts): 1 to 2 days.
- Cooked Chicken: 3 to 4 days.
It is crucial to cook or freeze raw chicken within two days of purchasing it. Storing it any longer in the fridge significantly increases the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness.
How Long Is Chicken Good For in the Freezer?
For long-term storage, the freezer is your best option. Unlike the short window for refrigeration, freezing can preserve chicken for much longer if done correctly.
- Whole raw chicken: up to 12 months
- Raw chicken pieces: up to 9 months
- Cooked chicken: 2 to 6 months
When stored at a consistent -18°C (0°F) or lower, chicken can remain safe indefinitely. However, the recommended timelines ensure the best quality in terms of flavor and texture.
The Right Way to Store Chicken in the Fridge
- Keep it Cold: Store chicken in the coldest part of your fridge, which is usually the bottom shelf.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination: Keep the chicken in its original packaging or a sealed container. Place it on a plate or tray to catch any leaking juices that could contaminate other foods.
- Keep it Separate: Store raw chicken away from ready-to-eat foods.
The Right Way to Store Chicken in the Freezer
- Prepare the Chicken: For best results, wash and thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels to minimize ice crystals.
- Divide into Portions: Cut the chicken into meal-sized portions so you only thaw what you need.
- Use Airtight Packaging: Store the chicken in freezer-safe bags or use a vacuum sealer. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn—a condition where the meat dries out.
- Label and Date: Always write the date on the package so you can keep track of its shelf life.
How to Thaw Frozen Chicken Safely
Thawing chicken improperly can ruin its texture and encourage bacterial growth. Avoid leaving it on the counter at room temperature. Use one of these safe methods instead:
- In the Refrigerator: This is the safest method. Place frozen chicken on the bottom shelf and allow 12–24 hours for it to thaw completely.
- In Cold Water: Submerge the chicken (in its airtight bag) in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until it’s thawed.
- In the Microwave: Use the “defrost” setting and cook the chicken immediately after thawing.
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
- Refreezing chicken that has been thawed (unless you cook it first).
- Storing chicken in non-airtight packaging in the freezer.
- Letting raw chicken sit in the fridge for more than two days.
- Not labeling the date of freezing.
Why Choose Olagud Chicken?
Starting with a high-quality product ensures better results, even after storage. Olagud’s probiotic frozen chicken products have advantages that make them ideal for freezing while maintaining quality:
- Probiotic Fed – The chickens are fed a probiotic diet that improves their digestive health and meat quality.
- Hormone & Antibiotic-Free – Safe for family consumption, including children.
- Hygienically Processed – Produced using modern farming standards to ensure maximum quality.
- Low in Fat & Cholesterol – Healthier and suitable for a variety of dishes.
With high-quality raw materials, Olagud chicken retains its delicious flavor and tender texture whether it’s stored for a short time in the fridge or long-term in the freezer.
