How long can chicken be left unthawed in the fridge?

Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Chicken is a very perishable food. Even in the refrigerator, bacteria can grow on it, especially if it's not properly stored. Leaving it unthawed for any length of time increases the risk of food poisoning.

* Safety guidelines: The USDA recommends that chicken be stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 1-2 days. This is to ensure that it remains safe to eat.

* Food safety: Unthawed chicken is essentially raw meat. It should be cooked immediately after thawing, and not left out at room temperature for any extended period.

To thaw chicken safely:

* Refrigerator: The safest way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator. This takes about 24 hours for a whole chicken.

* Cold water: Submerging the chicken in a bowl of cold water can take about 1 hour per pound. Change the water every 30 minutes.

* Microwave: Some microwaves have a defrost setting. However, this is not recommended for large cuts of chicken as it can cook the outer edges while the inside remains frozen.

Remember, always cook chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.