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Meat & Poultry
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Meat & Poultry

How long does raw chicken last?

Fresh uncooked chicken.

Quick answer
Fridge (40°F / 4°C)
2 days
1–2 days max in fridge — meat with shortest fridge life
Freezer (0°F / -18°C)
9 months
9–12 months at 0°F
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Signs raw chicken has gone bad

  • Grey or green tinge
  • Slimy or sticky surface
  • Sour or sulfur smell
  • Strange tackiness

Storage tips

  • 1–2 day fridge life is FIRM — cook or freeze
  • Always cook to 165°F internal
  • Thaw in fridge, not on counter
  • Bottom shelf prevents drips
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Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.