Cooked chicken lasts 3-4 days in the fridge at 40°F or below. Frozen, it keeps best quality about 4 months (6 months if covered in broth or gravy) and stays safe indefinitely at 0°F.
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long does cooked chicken last in the fridge?
3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze cooked chicken?
Yes. For best quality use it within 4 months. Plain or fried pieces; pieces in broth or gravy 6 months; best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.
- Pull meat off the bone and freeze in shallow, airtight portions.
- Covering pieces with broth or gravy helps them keep moist (up to 6 months).
After thawing: Thaw in the fridge and use within 3-4 days, reheating to 165°F; it can be refrozen if thawed in the fridge.
How long can cooked chicken sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.
How to tell if cooked chicken has gone bad
- Sour or off smell
- Slimy texture
- Visible mold
Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.
Questions people ask
How long is rotisserie chicken good for in the fridge?
Store-bought rotisserie chicken follows the same 3-4 day rule. Eat or refrigerate it within 2 hours of buying it.
Can I eat cooked chicken after 5 days?
USDA recommends using cooked chicken within 3-4 days. After that, discard it even if it looks and smells fine.
How long can you keep cooked chicken in the fridge?
Cooked chicken keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long can cooked chicken be kept in the fridge?
Cooked chicken keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long does cooked chicken last in the freezer?
For best quality, 4 months in a 0°F freezer. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; time only affects taste and texture.
How long is cooked chicken good for in refrigerator?
Cooked chicken keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
What temperature should I reheat leftover chicken to?
Reheat to 165°F, checked with a food thermometer.