Popcorn Chicken

Unopened or frozen popcorn chicken can typically last up to 6 months in a home freezer. However, once the popcorn chicken is prepared and cooked, you should enjoy it within 3-4 days when refrigerated. Microwavable popcorn chicken comes with a best by date, which you should adhere to for optimum taste and safety. However, it could be safe to consume up to a week beyond that date, assuming it has been stored properly.

If your popcorn chicken has a strange smell, changes color to a gray or green hue, or is slimy to the touch, then it's likely gone bad. An unusual aftertaste is a good indicator too. Make sure to always check your popcorn chicken before eating, especially if it has been stored for a long period.

• Always store popcorn chicken in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. • If you'll be reheating the popcorn chicken, only bring out the amount you're likely to consume. Repeated thawing and freezing can expose your popcorn chicken to bacteria and degrade its quality. • You should ideally separate portions before freezing so you don't have to defrost the whole batch in one go. • If it's leftovers from a takeout, put it in the refrigerator within two hours of being served to extend its shelf life. • When defrosting, leave it overnight in the fridge. For quick thawing, use the defrost setting on your microwave, but remember to cook the chicken immediately after.