Storing cooked chicken in the refrigerator?

1. Let it cool first. Don't put hot chicken directly in the fridge, as this can raise the temperature inside and potentially lead to foodborne illness. Let the chicken cool to room temperature on the counter for about 30 minutes, or speed up the process by placing it in an ice bath or sink filled with cold water.

2. Wrap it tightly. Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or an airtight container to wrap the chicken and prevent it from absorbing odors or drying out. Be sure to cover the chicken completely, and try to minimize the amount of air inside the wrapping.

3. Choose the right storage time. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container or package with the date so you know when it needs to be consumed or discarded.

4. Reheat before eating. Any time you reheat cooked chicken, make sure to bring it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured by a food thermometer. This will help kill any harmful bacteria that may have grown during storage. It's not recommended to reheat chicken more than once.

For storing cooked chicken for longer periods of time, consider freezing it instead of refrigerating it. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, and the thawing process can be easily done in the refrigerator or by running the frozen chicken under cold water.