Can You Eat Cold Cooked Chicken? Explained (Updated)

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

It has been reported that consuming chicken that has been left at room temperature after cooking can be hazardous.

But is that true? Can you eat cold-cooked chicken? 

This blog post will discuss the safety of eating cold-cooked chicken and tips on storing it properly.

Is It Safe To Eat Cold-Cooked Chicken?

Yes. It is perfectly safe to eat cold-cooked chicken. Many people prefer to eat chicken that has been refrigerated for a short time after cooking, as it can be more tender and juicy. 

However, it is important to make sure that the chicken is fully cooked before eating it, as there is a risk of food poisoning if it is not. 

When reheating chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill harmful bacteria. 

Finally, store cooked chicken properly in the fridge, in an airtight container, or wrapped in foil, to prevent it from spoiling.

Read:

• Is It Safe To Eat Sunflower Seed Shells?
• What Does It Mean When Chicken Is Chewy?

Can Eating It Make You Sick?

Yes, it can. Cooked chicken is a popular and versatile food, but it can pose a safety risk if handled incorrectly. 

One of the biggest risks is eating cold, cooked chicken that has not been properly reheated. Cold-cooked chicken can harbor bacteria that can cause food poisoning, so it is important to ensure that it is heated thoroughly before eating. 

However, if you eat cold-cooked chicken, there is no need to panic. The chances of getting sick from bacteria are low, and most people will recover without any lasting effects. 

So, next time you’re in the mood for a quick snack, go ahead and enjoy some cold-cooked chicken – be sure to heat it first.

Read: Can Chicken Breast Be Bruised?

Can You Eat Cold-Cooked Chicken When Pregnant?

Yes, but it is important to exercise caution if you’re pregnant. 

Cold chicken [1] sitting out for more than two hours may be at risk for bacterial growth, and pregnant women are more susceptible to foodborne illness. 

Furthermore, pregnant women should avoid eating chicken that has not been fully cooked, as this could lead to exposure to harmful bacteria such as Salmonella. 

By following these simple guidelines, pregnant women can enjoy cold chicken without risking their health.

Read: Why Can Eat Duck Rare But Not Chicken?

Can You Eat Cooked Chicken Left Out Overnight?

Not really. It’s not safe to leave the chicken at room temperature for more than two hours. If the room is warmer than that, it’s only safe for an hour.

After that, bacteria start to grow and multiply in the chicken. 

The USDA recommends discarding any chicken left at room temperature for longer than two hours. There are a few ways to tell if the chicken has gone bad. 

First, check the color. Fresh chicken is usually pinkish-white. If it’s starting to turn gray, that’s a sign that it’s beginning to spoil. 

Second, see if there are any signs of mold. 

Third, smell the chicken. If it smells sour or ammonia-like, it’s past its prime and should be thrown out. 

Finally, touch the chicken. If it feels sticky or slimy, bacteria are starting to grow on it and should be discarded. But should chicken be at room temperature before cooking?

How To Store Leftover Cooked Chicken

It is important to store the chicken properly to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat.

The best way to store cooked chicken is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. 

The chicken should be used within three days. It can be frozen if you need to store the chicken for over three days. 

To freeze cooked chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and use it within six months. 

When reheating frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Chicken that has been properly stored will be safe to eat and retain its flavor and texture.

Read: Steps To Make Frozen Chicken Patties Better

FAQs

Can you get Salmonella from cold-cooked chicken?

It is possible to get Salmonella from cold-cooked chicken, but it is not very likely. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It can be found in raw meat, poultry, eggs, and egg products.

Can you eat cold chicken in a salad?

Yes. You can eat cold chicken in a salad. Many people prefer the taste of cold chicken in a salad. It’s a good way to add protein to your meal.

Is it okay to reheat chicken in the microwave?

You can reheat chicken in the microwave, but it’s not recommended.

Microwaving chicken can cause the meat to become tough and dry. It’s better to reheat chicken in the oven or on the stovetop. If you must microwave it, cook it for a short time and be careful not to overcook it.

Why should cooked chicken only be reheated once?

Cooked chicken should only be reheated once because after being cooked, the chicken’s proteins will start to break down and form toxins. These toxins can cause food poisoning if consumed. 

Reheating the chicken more than once will only increase the toxins present in the chicken and may make you sick.

How long can cooked chicken sit in the fridge?

Cooked chicken will be safe to eat after 3-4 days in the fridge. However, it’s best to eat it within two days to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. But can you eat chicken left out overnight?

In Conclusion

While conflicting opinions exist, it is generally safe to eat cold-cooked chicken. 

As long as the chicken has been properly cooked and stored, there is no need to worry about getting sick from eating it cold.

When reheating, make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through before eating it. 

If you have any leftover cooked chicken, don’t leave it out on the counter – put it away promptly in the fridge or freezer.

Reference:

1. https://www.yummly.com/recipes/cold-chicken-main-dish