Is chicken and noodles left out overnight still safe to eat?

* Bacteria growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Chicken, especially cooked chicken, is a prime target for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli.

* Danger zone: The "danger zone" for bacterial growth is between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C). Leaving chicken and noodles out overnight puts it in this danger zone for an extended period, allowing bacteria to flourish.

* Food poisoning risk: Consuming food contaminated with bacteria can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

To be safe, always:

* Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F).

* Store leftovers in shallow containers to allow for quicker cooling.

* Use leftovers within 3-4 days.

It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. If you're unsure about the safety of any food, it's best to throw it away.