How Long Can Cooked Chicken Be Left at Room Temperature: USDA Safety Window and Risks Explained
💥 Quick Answer Cooked chicken should never sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 90°F). Beyond this, harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter multiply rapidly, making it unsafe to eat. This timeframe isn’t arbitrary—it’s based on how quickly bacteria thrive in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F. … Read more