How Long Does Raw Chicken Last in the Fridge?
Written by Jordan Morley · Storage times from the USDA FoodKeeper database · Last updated 28 October 2026
Raw chicken spoils faster than most other raw meat because poultry naturally carries a higher bacterial load (Campylobacter and Salmonella are common even on fresh, in-date chicken), and its moist surface is an easy growth medium at fridge temperatures.
Storage tips for raw chicken
- Fridge at 0–5°C. A fridge thermometer is the cheapest food-safety upgrade — many home fridges run warmer than their dial suggests.
You can also check the calorie content of raw chicken alongside its safety information. Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
Why this time limit?
Raw chicken spoils faster than most other raw meat because poultry naturally carries a higher bacterial load (Campylobacter and Salmonella are common even on fresh, in-date chicken), and its moist surface is an easy growth medium at fridge temperatures. The USDA's 1–2 day window is deliberately tight for that reason. Cooking kills these bacteria, which is why cooked chicken keeps for roughly double the time — up to 2 days under UK guidance (USDA allows 3–4) — under the exact same fridge conditions.
Raw vs. cooked chicken storage
| Form | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Raw chicken (whole) | 1–2 days | 12 months |
| Raw chicken (parts/breasts) | 1–2 days | 9 months |
| Cooked chicken | Up to 2 days | 4 months |
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Store it properly
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The right container keeps raw chicken fresher and stops fridge smells migrating.
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More storage essentials
Vacuum food sealer
Removes the air that speeds spoilage — extends shelf life by days.
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Fridge, freezer and microwave safe — one less transfer step.
Check Price →Raw Chicken: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In the freezer | Yes — freezes well (best quality for 12 months) |
| Left out overnight | No — throw it away (limit about 2 h) |
| Past the date on the label | No — use-by means use by |
Common questions
How long does raw chicken last in the fridge?
1–2 days in a fridge running at 0–5°C (USDA FoodKeeper guidance). After that, quality and safety both start to slip, and because the bacteria that cause food poisoning are invisible, ‘it seems fine’ is not a reliable test. When in doubt, throw it out.
How can I tell if raw chicken has gone off?
A sour or ammonia-like smell, a slimy or sticky surface and grey or greenish patches are all reasons to bin it. Do not rely on this alone: the time guideline matters even when everything looks fine.
Can I freeze raw chicken to keep it longer?
Yes. For best quality, freeze it for around 12 months; it stays safe beyond that because freezing halts bacterial growth, and only texture and flavour decline.
Does my fridge temperature really matter?
Yes. These times assume a fridge at 0–5°C, which is what the Food Standards Agency says to set it to. Bacteria grow faster in a warmer fridge, and many fridges run warmer than their dial suggests, so a cheap fridge thermometer is worth having.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.