Can you freeze chicken?
Chicken freezes very well — raw for up to 9 months, cooked for 2–6 months. Wrap tightly and thaw safely in the fridge.
How to store chicken (fridge, pantry & shelf life)How to freeze chicken
- Freeze chicken as soon as possible, ideally before the use-by date.
- Wrap tightly in freezer wrap or bags with the air pressed out; portion pieces for easy use.
- Label with the date, and keep raw and cooked chicken clearly separated.
How to thaw & reheat
Always thaw chicken in the fridge (never on the counter), and cook it until it reaches 165°F (74°C) throughout.
Best used for
Frozen chicken works for any recipe — roasts, curries, stir-fries and soups. Cooked frozen chicken is great for quick meals.
What to avoid
Never thaw chicken at room temperature, and don't refreeze raw chicken that has fully thawed.
Frequently asked questions
How long can you freeze chicken?+
Raw chicken keeps its quality for up to 9 months and cooked chicken for 2–6 months. It stays safe indefinitely at 0°F (-18°C), but quality declines over time.
How do you thaw frozen chicken safely?+
Thaw chicken in the fridge, in cold water, or in the microwave — never on the counter. Cook it until it reaches 165°F (74°C) all the way through.
Can you refreeze chicken?+
You can refreeze chicken that was thawed in the fridge and is still cold, but not chicken left at room temperature. Cooked chicken can be frozen once.
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