Raw chicken keeps only 1–2 days in the refrigerator and up to 9 months in the freezer (12 months for whole birds). Cooked chicken lasts 3–4 days chilled.
Fridge
1–2 days raw · 3–4 days cooked
Freezer
9 months in pieces · 12 months whole
Counter / pantry
Never — thaw in the fridge, cold water or the microwave
Store it right
Store on the lowest shelf in a sealed container so juices cannot drip.
Freeze on the day of purchase if you will not cook it within 48 hours.
Cook to an internal temperature of 74 °C / 165 °F.
Signs it has gone off
Slimy or tacky surface
Grey or greenish tint
Sour, ammonia-like smell
Rescue ideas
Poach and shred day-of, then freeze portions for soups and tacos.
Turn cooked leftovers into a pie filling or fried rice.