Chicken
The answer
Raw chicken lasts 1–2 days in the fridge and about 9 months in the freezer (1 year whole).
Caution Never rinse raw chicken — it spreads bacteria. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 1–2 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 9 months (pieces) 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.
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. Within 1 hour if above 90°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 after 4 days in the fridge. Do not taste it to check.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Raw, pieces (breasts, thighs, wings) 1–2 days 9 months
Raw, whole chicken 1–2 days 1 year
Cooked 3–4 days 2–6 months
Chicken nuggets or patties, cooked 3–4 days 1–3 months
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Gray or green tint
✕ Sour or unpleasant smell
✕ Slimy or sticky film
FAQ
Can I cook chicken that has been in the fridge for 3 days?
No. USDA guidance for raw chicken is 1–2 days in the refrigerator. If it has been 3 days, discard it.
Is chicken still good after the sell-by date?
A sell-by date is for the store, not a safety date. Cook or freeze raw chicken within 1–2 days of purchase regardless of the date on the package.
Can I refreeze chicken that was thawed in the fridge?
Yes. Chicken thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen within 1–2 days without cooking. Never refreeze chicken thawed on the counter or in warm water.