Introduction
Knowing how to store chicken in the refrigerator correctly is essential for maintaining food safety and preventing food-borne illnesses. It’s important to know how to properly store raw and cooked chicken, as well as other poultry products, in order to ensure their safety and freshness. This article will provide tips and guidelines on how to store chicken in the fridge, as well as answer the question: how long can you keep chicken in the refrigerator?
Tips for Storing Chicken in the Refrigerator
When storing chicken in the refrigerator, it’s important to keep it covered or wrapped in plastic wrap. This will help reduce the risk of cross-contamination by keeping the chicken from coming into contact with other food items. Additionally, it’s important to maintain a consistent temperature in the fridge; the optimal temperature for storing chicken is 40°F or lower. It’s also important to separate raw and cooked chicken to avoid any potential cross-contamination.
How to Maximize the Shelf Life of Chicken in the Fridge
To maximize the shelf life of chicken in the refrigerator, it’s important to monitor the date and check for spoilage. If the chicken has been stored in the refrigerator for more than two days, it should be discarded. Additionally, if the chicken has an unusual odor, color, or texture, it should not be consumed.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Keeping Chicken in the Refrigerator
It’s important to do the following when storing chicken in the refrigerator: thaw frozen chicken before storing, store chicken in the coldest area of the refrigerator, and discard any leftovers after two days. Additionally, it’s important to not leave chicken in the refrigerator too long, as this can cause bacteria to grow and make the chicken unsafe to eat.
What to Know About Refrigerating Chicken
Refrigerating chicken is not the only way to store it. You can also freeze chicken for longer periods of time. However, there are some differences between freezing and refrigerating chicken. Freezing chicken stops the growth of bacteria, while refrigerating only slows the growth of bacteria. Additionally, frozen chicken can last up to 12 months, while refrigerated chicken should be used within two days.
A Guide to Storing Chicken in the Refrigerator
When storing chicken in the refrigerator, it’s important to follow these steps: prepping the chicken, using the right storage containers, and reheating tips. When prepping the chicken, it’s important to rinse it off and pat it dry before storing. Additionally, it’s important to use the right storage container; either a shallow dish or airtight container. Finally, when reheating chicken, it’s important to make sure it’s cooked through to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F.
How Long Can You Safely Store Chicken in the Fridge?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Raw chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for one to two days. After this period of time, it’s important to discard the chicken, as it may pose a health risk if eaten.
How to Properly Store Chicken in the Refrigerator
In addition to following the above tips, it’s important to clean and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with the chicken, such as countertops, cutting boards, and utensils. Additionally, it’s important to dispose of any leftovers, as they are no longer safe to eat.
Conclusion
Storing chicken in the refrigerator correctly is essential for maintaining food safety and preventing food-borne illnesses. It’s important to keep the chicken covered, maintain a consistent temperature, and separate raw and cooked chicken. Additionally, it’s important to monitor the date and check for spoilage. Finally, it’s important to discard any leftovers after two days. By following these tips and guidelines, you can maximize the shelf life of your chicken and ensure its safety and freshness.
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