Ranch Chicken

Ranch Chicken, whether it's store-bought or homemade, generally lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator once prepared. If it's frozen, can last 2-6 months in the freezer. The frozen chicken should be consumed as soon as possible. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days. As for the unopened store-bought chicken, it can last up to or past its sell-by date, but it's best to use within a week.

Telling if your Ranch Chicken has gone bad is relatively easy. First, you will notice a change in the smell, it will have a sour and unpleasant pungency. The texture of the chicken once eaten could also tell you if it's bad, as spoiled chicken tends to be slimy. Lastly, if you see any green or black mold on the chicken, this is a clear sign it's spoiled.

• Always store your Ranch Chicken in refrigerator below 40 degrees F, or freeze immediately if you won't be consuming it within a few days. • Pack the chicken in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This prevents the chicken from becoming contaminated by other foods and minimizes exposure to 'freezer burn'. • When thawing frozen chicken, do so in the refrigerator or a cold water bath. Never thaw at room temperature as this can lead to bacterial growth. • Always remember to thoroughly reheat chicken to at least 165°F before consuming to make sure any potential bacteria are killed.