How long can you leave fried chicken out and still safely eat it?

It's not safe to leave fried chicken out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature (between 40°F and 140°F). Fried chicken, with its high protein content, is a prime target for bacterial growth.

* Foodborne Illness: Eating food contaminated with bacteria can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Safe Handling Tips:

* Refrigerate promptly: Refrigerate cooked fried chicken within two hours of cooking.

* Store properly: Store the chicken in airtight containers or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

* Reheat thoroughly: Reheat chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating.

Remember: If you're unsure about the safety of any food, it's always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.