Unveiling the Dangers: Can You Eat Leftover Chicken Left Out Overnight? The Experts Speak Out
What To Know
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Discard leftover chicken if it shows any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, a slimy texture, mold growth, or a sour taste.
The answer is a resounding no. According to the USDA, cooked chicken should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. After this time, bacteria can start to grow rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
Why is it important to refrigerate leftover chicken?
Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, and cooked chicken provides the perfect breeding ground. When chicken is left out at room temperature, bacteria can multiply rapidly, reaching dangerous levels within a few hours.
Symptoms of foodborne illness from leftover chicken
Consuming leftover chicken that has been left out overnight can lead to foodborne illness, which can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
How to prevent foodborne illness from leftover chicken
To prevent foodborne illness from leftover chicken, follow these simple steps:
- Refrigerate leftover chicken within two hours of cooking.
- Store leftover chicken in a sealed container to prevent contamination.
- Reheat leftover chicken thoroughly before eating it.
- Discard any leftover chicken that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
How long can leftover chicken be refrigerated?
Properly refrigerated leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. It is important to note that the quality of the chicken will deteriorate over time, so it is best to consume it within this time frame.
How to reheat leftover chicken safely
To reheat leftover chicken safely, follow these steps:
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and place it in a microwave-safe container.
- Add a small amount of water to the container to prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Microwave the chicken on high for two to three minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
When to discard leftover chicken
Discard leftover chicken if it shows any signs of spoilage, such as:
- An off odor
- A slimy texture
- Mold growth
- A sour taste
What You Need to Know
1. Can you eat leftover chicken that’s been left out for a few hours?
No, you should not eat leftover chicken that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
2. How can I tell if leftover chicken is safe to eat?
Check for signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, a slimy texture, mold growth, or a sour taste. If any of these signs are present, discard the chicken.
3. What are the symptoms of foodborne illness from leftover chicken?
Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, chills, headache, and fatigue.
4. How can I prevent foodborne illness from leftover chicken?
Refrigerate leftover chicken within two hours of cooking, store it in a sealed container, and reheat it thoroughly before eating.
5. How long can leftover chicken be refrigerated?
Properly refrigerated leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
6. How do I reheat leftover chicken safely?
Microwave the chicken on high for two to three minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. When should I discard leftover chicken?
Discard leftover chicken if it shows any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, a slimy texture, mold growth, or a sour taste.