Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Sesame Chicken expire?
In the fridge, leftover Sesame Chicken can safely be stored for up to four days. If you'd like to extend its shelf life, freezing is a good option—Sesame Chicken can be frozen for up to four months. The quality of the chicken may degrade a bit over time, but it will remain safe to eat. Once thawed in the fridge, you should consume it within 24 hours and try not to refreeze it.
How do you tell if Sesame Chicken is bad?
If your Sesame Chicken has changed in color, texture, or smell, it's a good sign it's gone bad. The chicken might look grayer or more dull than usual. Its texture might become overly slimy or sticky, and the smell might be unusually strong or sour. Remember, if you're in doubt, it's better to be safe and toss it out.
Tips for storing Sesame Chicken to extend shelf life
• Use an airtight container for storing Sesame Chicken in the fridge, this keeps the moisture in and other smells out.
• Try to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to slow bacteria growth. The faster you cool it, the better it taste when reheated.
• If freezing, consider portioning the chicken into meal-sized quantities before freezing. This way, you can defrost only what you need without wasting the rest.
• To defrost, transfer the frozen chicken to the refrigerator, ideally overnight.
• When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria.