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How Long Can Raw Chicken Be Left Out Of The Fridge?

HowLongFresh ExpertJul 24, 2025

Key Points

  • Unfortunately, your chicken is no longer safe to eat
  • How long can raw chicken sit at room temperature
  • You can safely leave raw chicken out at room temperature for about two hours — or one hour if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit — says the United States Department of Agriculture

Overview

Unfortunately, your chicken is no longer safe to eat. How long can raw chicken sit at room temperature? You can safely leave raw chicken out at room temperature for about two hours — or one hour if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit — says the United States Department of Agriculture. The reason is that bacteria grow rapidly when raw chicken is kept at temperatures between 40° F and 140° F. If chicken has been left out of the fridge for longer than 2 hours (or 1 hour above 90° F), the bacteria can multiply to the point where the chicken is no longer safe to eat and should be discarded.Should You Rinse Raw Chicken Before Cooking It? Do You Have To Thaw Frozen Chicken Before Cooking It? How Long Can You Leave Frozen Chicken in the Freezer?Long-Lasting Produce Stock up and enjoy Your Questions Answered Steak that's changed color

Key Points

  • Unfortunately, your chicken is no longer safe to eat
  • How long can raw chicken sit at room temperature
  • You can safely leave raw chicken out at room temperature for about two hours — or one hour if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit — says the United States Department of Agriculture

This information applies to: beef, chicken, cranberry, eggs, ground beef, hamburger, pie, potatoes, salad, shrimp, steak, stuffing, turkey

Tags

cooking expiration freezing leftovers refrigeration safety storage thawing

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