How long does chicken last once opened?
Chicken (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat, opened) keeps 3-5 days in the refrigerator and 1-2 months in the freezer.
Fridge
After opening
3-5days
Freezer
Can be frozen: yes
1-2months
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?
- Pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat, opened3-5 daysAfter opening
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 | - |
| UK advice | 2 days | 3-6 months | - |
| Cooked, leftover | 3-4 days | 4 months | - |
What the official sources say
“Chicken Luncheon Meat, after opening 3 to 5 days 1 to 2 months”
“Luncheon meat opened 3 to 5 days”
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