3 Simple Ways to Store Rotisserie Chicken in the Freezer

Is Freezing a Whole Rotisserie Chicken Possible?

• Believe it or not, you can actually freeze a whole rotisserie chicken, but there are a few important things to keep in mind to do it safely. First, it's best not to freeze the chicken while it's still hot or even warm. Rapid temperature changes can affect its texture and raise the risk of bacteria growth, which could make you sick.
• The ideal way to freeze it is to refrigerate the chicken within two hours of buying it. Let it cool down in the fridge for about one to two hours before freezing it. If you plan on freezing it within the first three to four days, just make sure it’s been properly stored in the fridge. If the chicken is still a bit warm when you get home, you can leave it on the counter until it reaches room temperature—just remember to freeze it within two hours to prevent bacteria from multiplying.

To freeze your rotisserie chicken, follow these steps:

1. Let the chicken cool completely.
2. Place it in an airtight food storage container or a freezer-safe bag, and label it with the date. Be sure to remove any excess air from the bag.
3. For the best quality, flavor, and texture, use the chicken within four months.

This way, you can enjoy your rotisserie chicken later without sacrificing quality!

Is Freezing Rotisserie Chicken Pieces Possible?

• When it comes to freezing rotisserie chicken, it’s actually better to freeze the pieces rather than the whole bird. While both methods work, freezing individual pieces makes them easier to thaw and portion out for later use.
• If you’ve got a whole rotisserie chicken that you want to freeze, start by cutting it into pieces. Once you've separated the wings, thighs, breasts, and any other parts, you can divide them into smaller portions to freeze.

To freeze rotisserie chicken pieces, follow these steps:

1. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap to keep them from sticking together.
2. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
3. Label the bag with the date so you know when it was frozen.

This method makes it super easy to grab the right portion whenever you need it!

Is Freezing Shredded Rotisserie Chicken a Good Idea?

• Freezing shredded rotisserie chicken is a great way to use up leftovers and have a quick dinner option on hand. Many people buy an extra rotisserie chicken, shred it right when they get home, and store it in the freezer for busy nights.
• Shred the chicken while it’s still warm—it’s easier to work with this way. Remove the skin, pull the meat off the bones, and discard any gristle. Then, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to shred the chicken quickly. You can also do it by hand if you prefer. Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, follow these steps to freeze it:

1. Divide the shredded chicken into individual portions for easier thawing.
2. Place each portion in a freezer-safe plastic bag, removing excess air, and label with the date.
3. Lay the bags flat in the freezer to keep the chicken from sticking together.

Repeat for any remaining chicken. It’s that simple!

The Best Ways to Thaw Rotisserie Chicken

Thawing rotisserie chicken is simple, but the method depends on how it was frozen.

Whole Rotisserie Chicken: To thaw a whole chicken, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can submerge the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water for 3-4 hours. Once thawed, reheat and enjoy. Avoid refreezing leftovers.

Rotisserie Chicken Pieces: For chicken pieces, place the sealed bag in the refrigerator overnight, or submerge it in cold water for 2-3 hours. Once thawed, reheat and enjoy. Don't refreeze leftovers.

Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: To thaw shredded chicken, place the bag in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for 1-2 hours. Once thawed, use it in soups, tacos, salads, or bowls. Avoid refreezing leftovers.

Simple and easy for any type of frozen rotisserie chicken!

The Shelf Life of Rotisserie Chicken: How Long Does It Last?

The USDA states that a fully cooked rotisserie chicken will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days, and can be eaten cold or reheated to 165°F. You can freeze any leftover chicken during this time using the methods mentioned earlier. Once frozen, it’s best to use the chicken within four months for optimal taste and texture. However, if the chicken has been kept frozen continuously, it’s safe to eat indefinitely.