How Long Can You Leave Raw Chicken in the Fridge

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 23:30:24 +0000

**How Long Can You Leave Raw Chicken in the Fridge?** Ever left a bag of raw chicken in the fridge overnight and wondered if it’s still safe? You’re not alone—this question is increasingly on the minds of home cooks, busy parents, and health-conscious shoppers across the U.S. With rising interest in food safety, meal planning, and kitchen efficiency, people are seeking clear answers about how temperature affects perishable foods like raw chicken. Understanding how long raw chicken stays safe in the fridge starts with temperature control: stored at 40°F (4°C) or below, raw chicken remains microbiologically stable for 1 to 2 days. Beyond that, bacterial growth accelerates—underscoring the importance of timely refrigeration. In typical home settings, leaving chicken warmer than expected or exceeding recommended storage times can increase spoilage risk and potential foodborne concerns. How does temperature shape food safety? The “danger zone” for bacteria lies between 40°F and 140°F (4°C to 60°C), where pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter thrive rapidly. Refrigeration slows, but doesn’t stop—