How To Store Rotisserie Chicken and Avoid Food Waste!
Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate fridge MVP. But are you storing it correctly? Maximize freshness, avoid waste & master reheating with our ultimate guide to storing rotisserie chicken. Here's what you need to know to store your rotisserie chicken like a pro.
How Long is Rotisserie Chicken Good For?
First things first, cooked chicken should not sit out at room temperature (68°F) for more than two hours or for more than one hour in a room where the temperature's above 90°F. SO once you serve everyone, make it a habit to put leftover rotisserie chicken in an airtight container and put it away. Here's how long you should store rotisserie chicken in the refrigerator and the freezer:
Refrigerator: 3-4 days for whole chicken, 3-4 days for carved pieces.
Freezer: Up to 4 months (shredded or carved) for optimal quality, but technically safe for even longer.
How To Know if Rotisserie Chicken Has Gone Bad
We all hate wasting food, but it isn't worth eating food that's potentially contaminated with bacteria. Look for these three red flags that signal that your chicken has gone bad. Discard it if you notice:
Slimy Texture: A telltale sign of bacterial growth.
Discoloration: Graying or greening indicates spoilage.
Sour Smell: An unpleasant odor signals danger.
Tips for Storing Rotisserie Chicken in The Fridge
When picking out rotiserrie chicken, look for glossy skin and clear juices, which all indicate freshness. Here's a few more handy tips:
Ditch the Plastic Bag: It traps moisture, leading to faster spoilage. Remove the chicken immediately and place on a tray or in the base of an airtight storage container.
Cool It Down: Let the chicken rest for 30-60 minutes before storing. Hot food heats the fridge, compromising other items.
Embrace Airtightness: Transfer the chicken (whole or carved) to an airtight container. Glass containers are fridge-friendly and eco-conscious!
Location, Location, Location: Store your chicken on the bottom shelf to prevent raw meat juices from dripping down.
Tips For Freezing Rotisserie Chicken
If you know you won't eat leftovers within the next three days, freeze your chicken. Here's how:
Portion Control: Divide the chicken into meal-sized portions for convenience. Shredding speeds up freezing and thawing.
Wrap it Tight: Use freezer bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
Label It: Mark the date and contents for easy identification.
Thaw Wisely: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight for optimal safety and texture. Never thaw frozen meat on the counter at room temp.
How To Reheat Rotisserie Chicken
When it's time to eat leftover chicken, here's how to bring back the magic no matter where you choose to reheat:
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat chicken in a pan with a bit of broth or oil to prevent dryness.
Microwave: Use short bursts on medium power to avoid uneven heating. Chicken should be at temp once it starts to steam.
With these expert tips, rotisserie chicken will become your culinary sidekick, not food waste, or worse, a harbinger of bacteria! Remember, food safety is paramount. Take a moment to consult the USDA's detailed guide for storing chicken..
