Can you put hot chicken in the fridge?
When it comes to storing hot chicken, there is often confusion and concern about whether it is safe and effective to put it directly in the refrigerator. In this article, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of refrigerating hot chicken and provide important tips to keep in mind. Let’s delve into the science behind refrigeration and understand how it can be used to preserve and chill hot foods.
Understanding Refrigeration and Food Safety
Refrigeration is a remarkable invention that has revolutionized food storage by extending the shelf life of perishable items while minimizing the risk of bacterial growth. Proper storage of food at optimal temperatures and times is critical to prevent the proliferation of harmful bacteria.
Contrary to popular belief, storing hot foods in the refrigerator is neither a myth nor a forbidden practice. The refrigerator is designed to maintain a constant flow of cold air, which allows it to effectively cool warm or mildly hot foods. While adding hot foods to the refrigerator may cause a slight increase in ambient temperature, it will not significantly affect the quality or safety of other stored foods.
Most modern refrigerators have built-in systems that continuously monitor the internal temperature of the compartment. Refrigerators with inverter technology, for example, can adjust the output of the compressor to match changes in ambient temperature. As a result, the refrigerator can effectively handle the addition of hot food without compromising its functionality.
The do’s and don’ts of refrigerating hot chicken
While it is generally safe to store hot chicken in the refrigerator, there are some guidelines to follow to ensure optimal results and food safety. Here are the dos and don’ts:
1. Don’t store sizzling hot food.
It is important not to put sizzling hot chicken directly into the refrigerator. The rapid introduction of high-temperature foods can cause a drastic change in the ambient temperature, potentially affecting the quality of other foods and compromising food safety. Instead, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature for a few minutes before refrigerating.
2. Don’t leave food out too long.
Avoid leaving freshly cooked chicken at room temperature for extended periods before refrigeration. Bacterial growth can occur rapidly between temperatures of 40°F and 140°F. To prevent bacterial growth, it is recommended that chicken be refrigerated once its surface temperature reaches 160°F. In hot climates, food should be held at room temperature for even less time, generally not more than 2 hours.
3. Keep a cooking thermometer handy
To ensure proper storage of hot chicken, it is advisable to use a cooking thermometer. Chicken is typically cooked at temperatures between 375°F and 450°F. Wait until the surface temperature of the chicken has cooled to about 160-180°F before refrigerating. It is important to note that most cuts of chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure thorough cooking and to eliminate the presence of bacteria.
4. Keep food unwrapped when not cooking
When removing the chicken from the oven, it is best to leave it unwrapped and remove any foil. This will allow the chicken to cool more efficiently and prevent overcooking. Allowing the chicken to air not only helps lower the temperature, but also helps the meat reabsorb juices and flavors lost during cooking. Once the chicken has cooled to a warm state, it can be covered with foil and refrigerated.
The right way to store hot chicken
To properly store hot chicken in the refrigerator, follow these steps:
- After the chicken is cooked, remove the foil and allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the chicken is about 160°F.
- If time is of the essence, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the chicken under a fan for about 10 minutes. However, do not leave the chicken out for more than 2 hours.
- When the chicken has cooled sufficiently, but is still warm to the touch, wrap it again if necessary and place it in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Freezing Hot Chicken
Freezing hot chicken is another way to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. However, certain precautions should be taken to ensure optimal results. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- Before freezing, it is important to allow the chicken to cool and air out. Removing any foil will facilitate the reabsorption of juices and prevent excess liquid and potential freezer burn. The drier the surface of the chicken, the less likely it is to develop freezer burn, which can negatively affect flavor and texture.
- Once the chicken has cooled to an appropriate temperature, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in freezer-grade plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Proper wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and maintains the quality of the chicken during freezing.
- Label the container or package with the freezing date to keep track of the storage time.
- When thawing frozen Hot Chicken, it is best to do so in the refrigerator to ensure a gradual and safe thawing process. Allow the chicken to thaw completely before reheating or eating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is safe to store hot chicken in the refrigerator as long as certain guidelines are followed. The refrigerator can effectively cool hot foods without compromising the quality or safety of other stored items. Allowing the chicken to cool to room temperature for a few minutes, then refrigerating it immediately, will preserve its freshness and minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
Remember to avoid storing sizzling hot chicken directly in the refrigerator, as this can cause a drastic change in ambient temperature. Also, do not leave freshly cooked chicken at room temperature for too long, as this can promote bacterial growth. Using a cooking thermometer to ensure proper temperatures and allowing the chicken to air out before refrigeration are also good practices.
If you prefer to extend the shelf life of hot chicken, freezing is a viable option. Just make sure the chicken is completely cooled, properly wrapped, labeled, and safely thawed before reheating or eating.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively store hot chicken in the refrigerator, ensuring its freshness and minimizing the risk of foodborne illness.
FAQS
Can I put hot chicken straight into the fridge?
Yes, you can put hot chicken directly in the fridge, but it’s important to allow it to cool at room temperature for a few minutes before putting it in the fridge. Putting red-hot chicken in the fridge can drastically change the ambient temperature and potentially affect the quality of other foods.
How long should I wait before putting hot chicken in the fridge?
To ensure food safety, it is recommended that hot chicken be refrigerated when its surface temperature reaches around 160°F. Avoid leaving freshly cooked chicken at room temperature for long periods, especially in warmer climates, as bacterial growth can occur rapidly.
Can storing hot chicken in the fridge affect other foods?
While storing hot chicken in the fridge may cause a slight increase in ambient temperature, it will generally not significantly affect the quality or safety of other stored foods. Modern refrigerators are designed to handle the addition of hot foods and maintain a constant flow of cold air.
How long can I keep hot chicken in the fridge?
Hot chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Ensure that the chicken has cooled to a warm temperature before refrigerating and store in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in cling film or foil to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze hot chicken?
Yes, you can freeze hot chicken to extend its shelf life. Allow the chicken to cool completely and remove any foil before freezing. Wrap the chicken properly in freezer-grade plastic wrap or aluminium foil, label it with the date of freezing and allow it to thaw gradually in the fridge before reheating or eating.
What is the recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken?
Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure thorough cooking and to eliminate the presence of harmful bacteria. Use a cooking thermometer to accurately measure the internal temperature of chicken before refrigerating or freezing.