How long does cooked chicken last?
Chicken (cooked, leftover) keeps 3-4 days in the refrigerator and 4 months in the freezer.
Fridge
3-4days
Freezer
Can be frozen: yes
4months
Pantry
No known time
-
Mine has been in the fridge for
Refreeze after thawing in the fridge?
- United States
- Yes
- United Kingdom
- Only after cooking
How long does chicken last in the refrigerator?
- Cooked, leftover3-4 days
Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or below.
Your fridge should be set between 0 and 5°C.
Other forms
| Form | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole | 1-2 days | 12 months | - |
| Ground chicken | 1-2 days | 3-4 months | - |
| Pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat | - | 1-2 months | - |
| Pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat, opened | 3-5 days | 1-2 months | - |
| UK advice | 2 days | 3-6 months | - |
What the official sources say
“Cooked Chicken, Leftover 3 to 4 days 4 months”
“Cooked pieces 3-4 days 1 month”
“pieces, plain 3 to 4 days 2 to 3 month”
Sources
We always show the most cautious time among official sources. Last verified: October 1, 2026.
- FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart US
- Food Standards Agency - consumer food hygiene guidance GB
- University of Georgia Extension US
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension US
- Love Food Hate Waste (WRAP) GB
- North Dakota State University Extension US
- Ohio State University Extension US
- University of Delaware Cooperative Extension US
- Worcestershire County Council GB
- USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data US
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling and Preparation US