Barbecued chicken is a delicious summertime favorite for many. The smoky, tender meat hot off the grill is hard to resist! Leftover bbq chicken also makes for quick and easy meals during the workweek. However, as with all cooked meats, barbecued chicken has a limited shelf life in the refrigerator. Here is a comprehensive guide on how long bbq chicken lasts in the fridge and how to store it properly.
How Long Does Refrigerated BBQ Chicken Last?
When stored properly in the fridge, leftovert bbq chicken will generally stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. The USDA recommends throwing out cooked chicken after 3 to 4 days, even if refrigerated [1].
However, there are a few factors that can affect bbq chicken’s fridge life:
- Type of meat – Dark meat like legs and thighs lasts slightly longer than white breast meat.
- Cooking method – Chicken cooked on a grill or smoker will keep longer than oven-cooked.
- Refrigerator temperature – Chicken lasts longer when stored at a consistent 40°F or below.
- Handling – Proper storage and minimal handling extends shelf life.
So while 3-4 days is a good rule of thumb, well-stored bbq thigh or leg meat may last up to 5 days refrigerated. Breast meat and chicken cooked indoors is best eaten within 3 days.
How to Store BBQ Chicken in the Fridge
Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of leftover barbecue chicken. Here are some tips:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating. Putting warm chicken in the fridge can raise the temperature and spoil food.
- Store chicken in airtight, shallow containers. A depth of 2 inches or less is ideal.
- Make sure your fridge temperature is 40°F or colder. Use a thermometer to monitor.
- Keep cooked chicken separated from raw meats, juices from raw chicken can contaminate cooked.
- Place chicken on a shelf rather than the door, where temperature fluctuations are more common.
- Only open the fridge when necessary, and close quickly after.
- Use leftover bbq chicken within 3-4 days for maximum freshness.
With the right refrigeration methods, you can safely store and enjoy leftover grilled chicken for several days.
How to Tell if Refrigerated BBQ Chicken has Gone Bad
Despite proper storage, leftovers eventually spoil. Here are signs refrigerated bbq chicken has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Slimy texture – A slippery, mushy feel indicates bacterial growth.
- Off odor – Rotten, sulfurous smell means chicken has spoiled.
- Discoloration – Gray, green or blue-tinged meat should be thrown out.
- Mold – Any fuzzy growth on chicken is a sign of spoilage.
- Expired date – Chicken kept longer than 3-4 days should not be consumed.
When inspecting older chicken, it’s best to be cautious. Always discard bbq chicken at the first signs of spoilage for food safety.
Can You Freeze Leftover BBQ Chicken?
Yes, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of leftover barbecue chicken. Frozen properly, it can keep for 2-6 months [2].
To freeze bbq chicken:
- Let chicken cool completely before freezing, then package in airtight bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible.
- Divide chicken into smaller portions so it freezes quicker.
- Label packages with contents and date.
- Freeze at 0°F or colder. Consistent temperature preserves quality.
- Once thawed, use chicken within 3-4 days. Do not refreeze.
Frozen chicken should not be spoiled or rotten if properly packaged and stored at 0°F. However, the texture and moisture content will degrade over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does refrigerated bbq chicken last after being cooked?
Bbq chicken will typically last 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly at 40°F or below. Legs and thighs may last up to 5 days, while breast meat is best within 3 days.
Can you eat bbq chicken left out overnight?
No. Refrigerate chicken within 2 hours of cooking. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Chicken left out more than 2 hours should be thrown away.
What happens if you eat bad bbq chicken?
Eating spoiled chicken can cause food poisoning with symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Seek medical treatment if symptoms persist more than 48 hours.
Can I reheat bbq chicken twice?
It’s best to only reheat leftover chicken once. Reheating twice increases risk of bacterial growth. Store reheated portions in the fridge and consume within 3-4 days.
How do you know if bbq chicken has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled bbq chicken include slimy texture, foul odors, discoloration, mold and expiration after 3-4 days in the fridge. When in doubt, throw it out. Don’t risk eating chicken that seems iffy.
Conclusion
Barbecued chicken is a delicious summertime treat, but like any meat, it has a limited fridge life. Follow the 3-4 day rule for storing leftovers. With proper refrigeration methods, you can safely enjoy grilled chicken for several days after cooking. Monitor bbq chicken for signs of spoilage and err on the side of caution. When reheating, only do so once. Freezing also extends shelf life for 2-6 months or more. With the proper storage and handling, you can continue enjoying juicy, flavorful barbecue chicken all week long.
References
- https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety
- https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/How-long-can-you-keep-chicken-in-the-freezer