In the freezer
12 months
Yes — freezes well
Quality holds for about 12 months at 0°F / -18°C. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; only quality declines.
Quick answer
Yes: whole raw chicken keeps 12 months in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C), compared with 1–2 days in the fridge.
How to freeze whole raw chicken
- Freeze on or before the last fridge day; the earlier, the better the texture.
- Overwrap the store pack in foil or a freezer bag, or vacuum-seal; squeeze out air.
- Thaw in the fridge (about 24 hours per 5 lb), or in cold water and cook right away.
How to thaw whole raw chicken
In the fridge
Safest. Allow about 24 hours per 5 lb (2.3 kg); small packs thaw overnight. Once thawed, raw meat and seafood keep 1–2 extra days in the fridge.
In cold water
Seal it in a leak-proof bag and submerge; change the water every 30 minutes. Allow about 30 minutes per pound, then cook right away.
In the microwave
Use the defrost setting and cook immediately — parts of the food may start to cook.
Yes — freezes wellQuality holds for about 12 months at 0°F / -18°C. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; only quality declines.
Freezer vs fridge vs counter
Whole raw chicken Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 hours
1 hour if above 90°F
In the fridgeFridge
1–2 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
12 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
More about whole raw chicken
FAQ
How long can you freeze whole raw chicken?
About 12 months for best quality at 0°F (-18°C). Kept frozen, it stays safe longer, but texture and flavour fade.
How do you thaw frozen whole raw chicken?
Safest. Allow about 24 hours per 5 lb (2.3 kg); small packs thaw overnight. Once thawed, raw meat and seafood keep 1–2 extra days in the fridge.
Can you refreeze whole raw chicken?
Only if it was thawed in the fridge and has not been left out. Quality drops each time.
Does freezing kill bacteria in whole raw chicken?
No. Freezing pauses bacteria; they become active again as the food thaws. Cook or reheat to a safe temperature.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number