Chicken Carbonara

Chicken Carbonara used as a ready-made meal from the grocery store typically has a use-by date printed on the package. Make sure to consume it by this date. Once opened, eat the meal within two days if refrigerated. If you freeze Chicken Carbonara, you should consume it within 1-2 months for best quality.

You can tell if Chicken Carbonara has gone bad by its smell and texture. If it emits a sour or unpleasant odor, if there's any sign of mold, or it appears to be slimy, then it has likely gone bad. If any part of the Chicken Carbonara has started turning a different color, don't take a chance - throw it out.

• Always store Chicken Carbonara in the refrigerator or freezer as it is highly perishable. Never leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. • If you choose to freeze the dish, make sure it's in a tightly sealed container or a freezer bag. If possible, press out any extra air from the bag before sealing. • As prepared meals like Chicken Carbonara tend to become dry in the freezer, a good trick is to add a small amount of chicken broth into the dish before freezing. It will help to maintain moisture during the freezing and reheating process. • When reheating Chicken Carbonara from the freezer, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop. Remember that the key is to heat it to an internal temperature of 165˚F for it to be safe to eat.