Chicken WingsShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide
Pantry
Not RecommendedUnsafe
Raw chicken wings must not be stored at room temperature. Refrigerate or freeze immediately.
Refrigerator
1-2 days
Store raw chicken wings in a clean, covered container or sealed package on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods. Maintain refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezer
9 months
For best quality, freeze raw chicken wings in airtight packaging or heavy-duty freezer bags at 0°F (-18°C) or below. While safe indefinitely, quality may decline after 9 months.
Signs of Spoilage
- Sour, off-odor, or ammonia-like smell
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Discoloration (e.g., greenish or grayish tint)
- Mold growth
Room Temperature Safety
The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
Raw chicken wings should be refrigerated or frozen promptly. Never leave raw chicken wings out on the counter or at room temperature.
Safe Handling
Cook all poultry, including chicken wings, to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a food thermometer.
Prevent cross-contamination: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils for raw and cooked poultry.
Do not wash raw chicken before cooking as this can spread bacteria to other foods, utensils, and surfaces.
Thaw frozen chicken wings in the refrigerator, in cold water (changing water every 30 minutes), or in the microwave. Never thaw at room temperature.