Freezing
Cooked more than you could eat? Chicken can be kept in the freezer for 6 to 9 months, as long as the temperature is set to 0º F (-18º C). However, always be sure to check the Freeze-by Date on the package.
Make sure food is at room temperature before putting in the freezer. But do not leave at room temp. for over two hours. It’s also best to remove items from any packaging, and wrap them in food-safe freezer bags or plastic wrap. If you made a sauce or gravy, pack it in a container with a tight-fitting lid.
Real Tip: Remove as much air as possible from food storage bags to help stop freezer burn and reduce package size.
Refrigerating
Separate leftovers into smaller containers or bags, and keep them in a refrigerator that’s set below 40º F (4º C).
Cooked, cut-up chicken should be used within two days, and a whole cooked chicken within three. Uncooked chicken can stay in the refrigerator for two days before it should be cooked or put in the freezer. Make sure to check Use-by Date on package.
Real Tip: If you’ve bought a package of chicken from the store, it’s smart to cut and individually seal the pieces before storing them.
