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How long does raw chicken last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
2 days
1–2 days max in fridge — meat with shortest fridge life
Freezer
9 months
9–12 months at 0°F
The short answer
Raw Chicken lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Fresh uncooked chicken. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if raw chicken is 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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Frequently asked questions
How long does raw chicken last in the refrigerator?
Raw Chicken lasts 2 days in the refrigerator. 1–2 days max in fridge — meat with shortest fridge life
How long does raw chicken last in the freezer?
Raw Chicken lasts 9 months in the freezer. 9–12 months at 0°F
How can you tell if raw chicken is bad?
Watch for: Grey or green tinge; Slimy or sticky surface; Sour or sulfur smell.