Chicken is one of the most commonly bought items in a UAE kitchen, but the region's warm climate means it needs extra care when you're shopping, transporting and storing it. Getting the basics right can help maintain freshness and support safe food handling.

Here's a simple guide to help you store, freeze and thaw chicken safely.

Why Does Chicken Need Extra Care in the UAE?

Warm temperatures can allow bacteria to multiply more quickly in perishable foods such as fresh chicken. That's why it's important to refrigerate or freeze chicken as soon as possible after bringing it home.

When shopping or ordering fresh chicken, avoid leaving it at room temperature for longer than necessary, especially during the hotter months.

How Should You Store Chicken in the Fridge?

• Keep chicken in its original packaging, or transfer it to a clean, sealed container if the packaging has been opened.
• Store it on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent any juices from dripping onto other food.
• Keep it away from ready-to-eat foods such as salads, fruit, and cooked meals.
• Keep your refrigerator at a safe temperature suitable for storing perishable foods.

How Long Does Fresh Chicken Stay Good For?

Fresh chicken is generally best used within a day or two when properly refrigerated. Always check the use-by date on the packaging where applicable and follow the storage instructions provided.

If you're planning to cook a dish later in the week, a cut like Fresh Chicken Curry Cut is worth freezing rather than keeping it refrigerated for several days.

Can You Freeze Chicken, and How Long Does It Keep?

Yes. Freezing is a good option if you've bought more chicken than you plan to use soon.

For best quality, store chicken in suitable freezer packaging or a well-sealed container to help prevent freezer burn. Frozen chicken can remain safe for longer periods when continuously kept frozen, but quality can decline over time.

How Should You Thaw Chicken Safely?

• Thaw chicken in the fridge rather than on the counter. It takes longer, but it's the safer option.
• If you need to thaw it faster, use cold water and cook the chicken soon after thawing.
• Avoid leaving chicken to thaw at room temperature, especially in warmer weather.
• Do not thaw chicken in warm or hot water.

Signs Fresh Chicken May Have Gone Off

An unpleasant or sour smell, a sticky or slimy texture, or a noticeable change in colour can be signs that chicken should not be used.

However, smell and appearance alone cannot always tell you whether chicken is safe to eat. If the chicken has been stored incorrectly, left at unsafe temperatures, or you're unsure about its safety, it's better to discard it rather than take a risk.

Not Sure Which Cut to Buy?

Storage is easier once you know what you're actually cooking. Our chicken cuts guide breaks down which cut suits which dish, so you're not guessing at the counter.

Get Fresh Chicken Without the Supermarket Trip

Order fresh chicken straight from your phone. Get the QuicKart iOS app or download it for Android to get fresh essentials delivered to your door.

FAQs

1. How long does fresh chicken last in the fridge?

Fresh chicken is generally best used within a day or two when properly refrigerated. Always check the use-by date and storage instructions on the packaging where applicable. If you won't cook it soon, freezing is a better option.

2. Can I refreeze chicken after thawing it?

If chicken has been thawed safely in the refrigerator and has remained at a safe temperature, it can generally be refrozen, although the quality may be affected. Chicken that has been thawed at room temperature should not be refrozen without cooking it first.

3. What's the best way to thaw chicken?

Thawing chicken in the refrigerator is the safest and most convenient option. If you're short on time, you can thaw it in cold water and cook it soon after.

4. Should chicken be stored on a specific fridge shelf?

Yes. The bottom shelf is generally recommended for raw chicken and other raw meats, helping prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.

5. How can I tell if the chicken has gone off?

An unpleasant smell, slimy texture or unusual colour can be warning signs. However, food can sometimes be unsafe without obvious changes in smell or appearance. If you're unsure about how the chicken has been stored or handled, it's safer to discard it