How long can chili sit out before spoiling?

According to the USDA, cooked chili should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After 2 hours, the chili should be discarded or refrigerated. This is because bacteria can grow rapidly in chili due to its high protein and moisture content. If the chili is left out for too long, it can become unsafe to eat and could cause food poisoning.

To store chili safely, it should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking. Chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating chili, it should be brought to a boil to ensure that any harmful bacteria are killed.