How should chicken be stored?

Fresh Chicken

* Refrigerator:

* Store fresh chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at 40°F (4°C) or below.

* Place it on a plate or in a container to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.

* Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to prevent drying out and cross-contamination.

* Fresh chicken should be used within 1-2 days.

* Freezing:

* To freeze chicken, wrap it tightly in freezer paper or plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.

* Label and date the package.

* Frozen chicken can be stored for 4-6 months in the freezer.

Cooked Chicken

* Refrigerator:

* Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

* Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

* Freezing:

* To freeze cooked chicken, let it cool completely and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

* Label and date the package.

* Frozen cooked chicken can be stored for 2-3 months in the freezer.

Important Notes:

* Thawing: Always thaw chicken in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria.

* Cross-contamination: Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken. Also, wash all surfaces, utensils, and cutting boards that have come into contact with raw chicken.

* Cook to Safe Temperature: Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria.

If you're unsure about the safety of your chicken, it's always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.