Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and complex dish that, with proper storage, can actually last a little while! If unopened and store-bought, you can most often depend on the date printed on the package - typically this is about 1-2 weeks. However, once you've broken that seal and let air in, you'd best finish it within 3-4 days tops. As for the homemade variety, it's pretty similar to the opened, store-bought scenario - 3-4 days in the fridge is your best bet. And yes, you can freeze it! Maybe you made too much, or just want to save some for another day. Frozen Chicken Alfredo can last solidly 2-3 months.

When it comes to discerning if your Chicken Alfredo has gone bad, trust your senses! To start with, look at it. Good Alfredo should be creamy and white or off-white. If it has changed color, or if you notice any mold or foreign substances, that's a good sign it is past its sell-by date. Give it a sniff next. Bad Alfredo will have an off smell that you won't miss. Lastly, feel it. If it has sliminess or severe stickiness, these are good signs that it's time to toss it out. When in doubt, it's safer to discard questionable food.

• Always store your Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container. This not only keeps other smells and flavors out, but also extends its fridge life. • If freezing, separate it into easy-to-use portions. This avoids repeatedly freezing and thawing the same batch which quickly degrades the quality. • Consider using freezer bags instead of containers for freezing. They take up less space and make it easier to lay flat and even, which helps with speedy, even thawing. • When defrosting, do this in the fridge rather than using the defrost function in the microwave. It takes longer (you'll need to plan ahead and let it defrost 24 hours) but it maintains a much more consistent and appetizing texture.