Better Safe Than Sorry: The Facts on Cooked Chicken
How Long Can Cooked Chicken Sit Out Before It Becomes Unsafe? Here’s What You Need to Know.
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Spoiler alert: It’s probably not as long as you think.
By: Jamie Collins
Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: April 4, 2022
It’s dinner time, and you’re ready to satisfy your family’s hunger with a delicious chicken dish. Whether you’re cooking from scratch or grabbing a pre-cooked roasted chicken from the store, chicken is a popular choice for many families. Yet, in the rush of a busy day, you might accidentally leave your cooked chicken on the counter longer than intended. Now, you’re faced with the question: How long can cooked chicken sit out before it’s no longer safe to eat? Did you just ruin dinner, or can you salvage it?
Chicken is a versatile meal option, perfect for meal-prepping on Sundays or getting a head start in the kitchen before the kids come running in. But regardless of how you prepare or purchase your chicken, it’s crucial to be aware of food safety guidelines. While most people understand the need to cook chicken thoroughly, many may not know the specifics about how long it can be left out. Here’s what you need to know to avoid ordering last-minute pizza instead.
Is It Safe to Eat?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, cooked chicken should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. If the temperature exceeds 90°F, that time reduces to just one hour. Keep in mind that bacteria thrive in the temperature range of 40°F to 140°F, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Additionally, consuming chicken that has been left out can lead to foodborne illnesses like E. coli or salmonella. While most cases result in mild to moderate symptoms, it’s essential to recognize the risks, especially since contaminated chicken can appear perfectly normal.
How Long Can You Store Cooked Chicken?
There’s a common myth that keeping cooked chicken covered prevents it from spoiling, but unfortunately, this isn’t true. Similarly, adding barbecue sauce or other condiments won’t protect it from going bad. The safest way to store cooked chicken is in the refrigerator or freezer. When stored properly, cooked chicken can remain safe in the fridge for three to four days, while in the freezer, it can last for at least four months.
Does Reheating Chicken That’s Been Left Out Help?
You may have heard that reheating food eliminates harmful pathogens. However, this is a misconception, as heat does not eliminate bacteria that have multiplied at room temperature.
How Long Should You Cook Chicken?
To ensure your chicken is safe to eat, the US Food Safety and Inspection Service recommends cooking it to an internal temperature of 165°F. Always check the thickest parts of the chicken, including the thigh, wing, and breast.
Remember, things can get hectic in the kitchen, so always refrigerate your cooked chicken as soon as possible. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or oven, and you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind. But if you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to discard it.
How to Tell If Cooked Chicken Has Gone Bad?
Spoiled chicken can often look just like safe chicken, which is why following the two-hour rule is crucial. Signs that chicken has gone bad include a slimy texture, stickiness, foul odors, or discoloration such as yellow, green, or gray. If chicken smells like ammonia or rotten eggs, it’s time to toss it. Raw chicken should also be shiny and firm, not sticky or slimy.
What to Expect After Eating Spoiled Chicken?
If you accidentally consume spoiled chicken, symptoms of food poisoning may appear within one to two days, but some people may experience nausea or vomiting even sooner.
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