How long does raw chicken last in the fridge?
Raw chicken lasts 1–2 days in the fridge, whatever the sell-by date says. Freeze it within that time and it stays safe indefinitely, with best quality for 9 months (pieces) to 12 months (whole).
Day by day in the fridge
- Day 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Storage times by type
| Type | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Raw chicken pieces | 1–2 days | 9 months |
| Whole raw chicken | 1–2 days | 12 months |
| Raw ground chicken | 1–2 days | 3–4 months |
| Thawed in the fridge | 1–2 more days | Can be refrozen |
Signs it has gone bad
- Sour or ammonia-like smell
- Slimy or tacky surface that stays after rinsing
- Grey or green tinge instead of pale pink
No signs doesn't mean safe. Food-poisoning bacteria usually don't change smell or look, so go by time.
How to store it
- Store raw chicken on the bottom shelf so juices cannot drip onto other food.
- Thaw in the fridge, in cold water (changed every 30 minutes) or in the microwave. Cook straight away after the last two.
- Do not wash raw chicken: it spreads bacteria around the sink. Cooking to 165°F (74°C) kills them.
Check yours
Questions people ask
Is raw chicken still good after 3 days in the fridge?
Food safety agencies say to cook or freeze raw chicken within 1–2 days. At 3 days it is past the recommended window, so the safest choice is to throw it out.
Does the sell-by date matter for raw chicken?
The sell-by date tells the store how long to display it. Once you bring it home, use or freeze it within 1–2 days, even if the date is later.
Can I refreeze raw chicken?
Yes, if it was thawed in the fridge and has not been out longer than 2 hours. Quality may drop slightly. Chicken thawed in cold water or the microwave should be cooked first.
Sources
General food safety information, not medical advice. Times assume a fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below and a freezer at 0°F (-18°C). If you're pregnant, older, very young or immunocompromised, follow stricter limits.