Cooked Chicken
The answer
Cooked chicken lasts 3–4 days in the fridge and 2–6 months in the freezer.
Caution Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking or buying. Reheat leftovers to 165°F.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 3–4 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 2–6 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard if held above 40°F for more than 2 hours, or above 90°F for more than 1 hour.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Cooked, home or rotisserie 3–4 days 2–6 months
Chicken nuggets or patties 3–4 days 1–3 months
Chicken salad 3–4 days Does not freeze well
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Sour or off smell
✕ Slimy or tacky surface
✕ Gray or greenish color
FAQ
Is rotisserie chicken good after 5 days?
No. Cooked chicken is safe for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. After that, discard it — even if it looks and smells fine.
Can I eat cooked chicken left out overnight?
No. Discard any cooked chicken left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Do not taste it to check.