How long will refrigerated chicken be edible for?

The shelf life of refrigerated chicken depends on several factors, including the packaging, initial quality of the chicken, and the storage temperature. Generally, here's an estimate of how long refrigerated chicken can be safely consumed:

1. Raw Whole Chicken:

- Freshly purchased: Up to 1-2 days

- Previously frozen and thawed: Up to 1-2 days after thawing

2. Raw Chicken Cuts (e.g., breasts, thighs, drumsticks):

- Freshly purchased: Up to 1-2 days

- Previously frozen and thawed: Up to 1-2 days after thawing

3. Cooked Chicken:

- Cooked chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks: Up to 3-4 days

- Whole cooked chicken: Up to 3-4 days

- Cooked chicken dishes with mixed ingredients: Up to 3-4 days

Remember, these are just general estimates. For the best quality and safety, always check the "use by" or "sell by" date on the packaging. If in doubt, discard the chicken to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Here are some additional tips to ensure the safety and quality of refrigerated chicken:

- Store raw chicken separately from other foods, especially ready-to-eat foods, to prevent cross-contamination.

- Keep the refrigerator temperature at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius).

- Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator or under cold running water, never at room temperature.

- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.

- When reheating cooked chicken, ensure it's piping hot throughout.