meat
How Long Does Chicken Breast Last?
Chicken Breast lasts 1–2 days in the fridge (raw). Store raw chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent drips contaminating other food.
Fridge
1–2 days
raw
Counter
0–2 hours
maximum; discard if left longer
Freezer
9–12 months
raw, best quality
Once opened/cut
3–4 days
cooked, refrigerated
Storage Tips
- Store raw chicken on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent drips contaminating other food.
- Freeze in portion-sized zip bags with air pressed out — flat packs thaw faster than dense blocks.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight or under cold running water; never on the counter at room temperature.
How to Tell If Chicken Breast Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Slimy or tacky surface even after rinsing under cold water.
- Gray, green, or yellow discoloration instead of pale pink.
- Sour, ammonia-like, or "off" smell that persists even before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can raw chicken sit in the fridge?
Only 1–2 days per USDA guidelines. If you bought it today but plan to cook it in 3 days, freeze it immediately and thaw the night before you need it.
Is it safe to refreeze chicken that was previously frozen?
Yes, if it was thawed in the refrigerator (not on the counter). Refreezing after counter-thawing is unsafe because bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature during the thaw.
Why does chicken sometimes turn gray in the freezer?
Gray coloring is usually freezer burn from air exposure, not spoilage. Cut away heavily burned areas; the rest is safe. Prevent it by pressing all air from the bag before sealing.
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