Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Chicken Sandwich expire?
A store-bought chicken sandwich will usually have an expiry date printed on the package - it's best enjoyed before this date. Once open, make sure to consume it within two hours at room temperature. If you refrigerate it immediately after opening, it can be good for up to 3-4 days. However, homemade chicken sandwiches should be eaten within two days if refrigerated. Frozen chicken sandwiches, on the other hand, can last up to 1-2 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if Chicken Sandwich is bad?
A rotten chicken sandwich can have a sour or foul smell. Additionally, if you notice a change in the color of the chicken or bread, particularly any grey or green spots, that's a clear sign of mold and means the sandwich has spoiled. Also, if the texture of the bread or chicken feels slimy or excessively soft, it's best to discard it.
Tips for storing Chicken Sandwich to extend shelf life
• Wrap the sandwich tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container before putting in the fridge or freezer. This will help maintain its freshness.
• Make sure your refrigerator temperature is set below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacteria grows rapidly between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, so it's vital to store food at safe temperatures.
• If freezing, consider separating the sandwich components and freezing them individually. Toast the bread and cool it before freezing. Cook the chicken completely, let it cool, then freeze. This will ensure that the bread doesn't get soggy when you defrost and reheat it.
• To defrost, leave the sandwich in the refrigerator overnight. Do not defrost at room temperature as this can encourage bacterial growth.
• Reheating a defrosted chicken sandwich in the oven or microwave will help restore its fresh baked taste.