How to Keep Chicken Fresh in the Fridge: Practical Tips and Safety Measures

When it comes to storing chicken in the fridge, proper handling and storage techniques are crucial to maintaining freshness and ensuring food safety. By following a few simple guidelines, you can help keep your chicken fresh and safe to eat for an extended period.

Storage Temperature

The first and most important aspect of fridge storage is ensuring your refrigerator is set to the correct temperature. The internal temperature should be set to 40°F (4°C) or below. This low temperature helps prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, which can lead to illness.

Packaging

Uncooked Chicken

When storing uncooked chicken, it's best to keep it in its original packaging if it is sealed. However, if the packaging is not airtight, transfer it to a sealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This action helps prevent exposure to air and potential contaminants.

Cooked Chicken

For cooked chicken, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Alternatively, wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to protect it from moisture and contaminants. Proper packaging is key to maintaining the freshness of your chicken.

Placement

Always place chicken on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. This practice prevents any potential drips from contaminating other foods stored higher up. Keeping chicken at the bottom also helps maintain its freshness by minimizing exposure to contaminated juices.

Use By Date

Knowing when to use your chicken is important. Uncooked chicken should be used within 1-2 days. Cooked chicken, on the other hand, can last up to 3-4 days. Keep an eye on the expiration date. Failure to use the chicken within these time frames can lead to spoilage and potential safety risks.

Freezing Chicken

For long-term storage, consider freezing your chicken. Freezing helps preserve the quality and safety of chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Freezing is a great option if you don’t plan to use the chicken within a few days.

Thawing Chicken

To thaw frozen chicken, do so in the refrigerator. Avoid thawing it at room temperature, as this can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. Proper thawing ensures that the chicken remains safe to eat and retains its optimal freshness.

Additional Tips

Keep chicken in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its freshness. Ensure the chicken was not left at room temperature during delivery, as this can significantly affect its quality. Leave unopened chicken in its original packaging to reduce exposure to air and contaminants. Place chicken on the bottom shelf to avoid drips onto other foods. Remember that chicken can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella. Cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your chicken stays fresh and safe to eat, whether you're serving it tomorrow or freezing it for future use.