Chicken and dumplings is a delicious comfort food that typically makes large portions perfect for leftovers. However, since it contains meat and dairy ingredients, it’s important to store and reheat it properly to prevent foodborne illness. Here’s a look at how long leftover chicken and dumplings will last in the fridge.
Quick Answer
Leftover chicken and dumplings will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in airtight containers. The dumplings may not hold up quite as well texture-wise after reheating, but the chicken and broth should retain good flavor and quality during that time. Discard any leftovers after 4 days.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
In general, most leftovers will last about 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, different types of leftovers have varying shelf lives. Here are some general guidelines for leftovers fridge life:
- Cooked meat, poultry, fish – 3-4 days
- Soups, stews – 3-4 days
- Cooked vegetables – 3-5 days
- Pizza – 3-4 days
- Pasta – 3-5 days
- Casseroles – 3-4 days
- Gravy – 1-2 days
As you can see, most leftovers should be eaten within 3-4 days for safety and quality. After that point, the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness increases. Chicken and dumplings fall into the soups, stews, pasta, and casseroles categories which tend to last 3-4 days.
What Determines How Long Leftovers Last?
There are a few key factors that determine how long leftovers will stay fresh and safe to eat in the refrigerator:
- Ingredients used – Ingredients like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy tend to spoil more quickly than fruits, vegetables, and starches.
- Cooking temperature – Food that is thoroughly cooked to safe internal temperatures has a longer fridge life.
- Acidity level – Acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus, and dressings tend to last longer.
- Storage method – Air-tight, sealed storage prevents bacteria growth and extends fridge life.
- Exposure to air – Leftovers kept uncovered or transferred between containers spoil faster.
Chicken and dumplings contains poultry and dairy ingredients which are more prone to spoiling. However, thoroughly cooking the dish to 165°F kills any bacteria initially present. Storing the leftovers covered in the fridge prevents recontamination and keeps quality high for 3-4 days.
How to Store Leftover Chicken and Dumplings
To get the maximum leftover life out of your chicken and dumplings, follow these storage tips:
- Divide into shallow airtight containers with lids. Shallow storage allows the food to cool quickly in the fridge.
- Avoid packing the containers too full. Leave about 1-inch of headspace so the food can cool down faster.
- Seal the containers tightly and store immediately in the fridge once cooking is complete. Don’t leave food sitting out.
- Use leftover chicken and dumplings within 3-4 days for best quality.
- Label containers with the date prepared or use oldest leftovers first.
- Store dumplings and chicken pieces submerged in broth for best texture.
Following these steps minimizes bacteria growth and keeps chicken and dumplings tasting great for 3-4 days until reheating.
How Many Times Can You Reheat Leftovers?
It’s generally recommended to reheat leftovers only once for food safety. Each time leftovers are reheated, it allows more opportunities for bacteria to multiply, especially if not reheated to proper temperatures. Here are some reheating guidelines:
- Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Bring soups and stews like chicken and dumplings to a boil when reheating.
- Only reheat leftovers once before discarding.
- Don’t reheat leftovers more than 2 hours after taking them out of the fridge.
- Eat reheated leftovers right away rather than letting them sit out.
As long as you follow food safety best practices, leftovers like chicken and dumplings can be safely reheated once after refrigeration. But the quality likely diminishes after a second reheat.
How to Reheat Chicken and Dumplings
Here are some excellent methods for reheating leftover chicken and dumplings while maintaining safety and quality:
- On the stovetop – Heat broth, chicken and dumplings in a saucepan over medium-low heat until simmering, stirring occasionally.
- In the microwave – Transfer portions to a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave on Medium power in 1-2 minute intervals until 165°F.
- In the oven – Bake loosely covered in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until hot, 165°F.
The dumplings may get slightly soggier after reheating compared to freshly made. But the chicken and hearty broth still make tasty leftovers within 3-4 days of refrigeration.
How to Know if Leftovers Have Gone Bad
Always rely on sight, smell and taste – rather than just the date – to determine if refrigerated leftovers have gone bad. Signs chicken and dumplings have spoiled and should be thrown out include:
- Mold growth
- Slimy texture
- Sour or rotten smell
- Off-colors like green, blue, pink
- Unusual bubbling or foaming
- Ropy, stringy consistencies
Severe temperature abuse, like letting chicken and dumplings sit at room temperature too long, can allow dangerous bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus to multiply and produce toxins that cause illness. When in doubt, throw it out.
Can You Freeze Leftover Chicken and Dumplings?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of leftover chicken and dumplings even further. Here are some freezing tips:
- Cool leftovers in the fridge before freezing. Don’t freeze piping hot food.
- Divide into portion sizes in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal tightly.
- Label with contents and freeze-by date (2-3 months).
- Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
- Bring to a boil or reheat to 165°F before serving.
With proper freezer storage, leftover chicken and dumplings can last 2-3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture. The dumplings may get a little mushier once thawed and reheated.
What Are Good Ways to Use Up Leftovers?
If you don’t think you’ll finish leftover chicken and dumplings within 3-4 days, here are some delicious ways to repurpose it before it goes bad:
- Chicken and dumpling pot pie – Combine with veggies in a pie crust.
- Chicken dumpling soup – Thin out with broth and add veggies.
- Chicken salad/sliders – Shred chicken and mix with mayo, vegetables, and spices.
- Chicken fried rice – Toss shredded chicken with rice, eggs, and veggies.
- Freeze – Portion out leftovers into recipe-sized bags to use later.
Transforming leftovers into new dishes allows you to get the most value out of your cooking while cutting down on food waste. Get creative modifying chicken and dumplings into yummy meals to enjoy throughout the week.
Summary
Chicken and dumplings can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored properly in airtight containers. It can be reheated once to 165°F and may be frozen for 2-3 months for longer term storage. For best quality, use leftovers within 4 days and repurpose or freeze remaining portions. Discard any leftovers that smell, look or taste off.
Following proper food safety practices when storing, reheating and repurposing leftovers like chicken and dumplings allows you to reduce waste while enjoying delicious homemade cooking all week long.