What To Know
- Chicken pot pie is a perishable food, and leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours can lead to the growth of bacteria.
- Thaw the chicken pot pie in the microwave on the defrost setting.
- Can I leave chicken pot pie out overnight if it’s in the refrigerator.
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cold night. But what happens if you don’t finish it all in one sitting? Can you leave chicken pot pie out overnight?
The answer is: no. Chicken pot pie is a perishable food, and leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours can lead to the growth of bacteria. This can cause food poisoning, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Why Can’t You Leave Chicken Pot Pie Out Overnight?
There are several reasons why you can’t leave chicken pot pie out overnight.
- Bacteria growth: Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, and chicken pot pie is a perfect breeding ground for them. The meat, vegetables, and gravy all provide nutrients for bacteria to grow.
- Temperature danger zone: The temperature danger zone is the range of temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. This is the temperature range in which bacteria grow most rapidly. Chicken pot pie that is left out at room temperature will quickly enter the temperature danger zone.
- Spoilage: As bacteria grow, they will cause chicken pot pie to spoil. This will be evident by changes in the appearance, smell, and taste of the food. Spoiled chicken pot pie should not be eaten.
How to Store Chicken Pot Pie Safely
To store chicken pot pie safely, follow these steps:
- Refrigerate leftovers: Leftover chicken pot pie should be refrigerated within two hours of being cooked.
- Store in an airtight container: Leftover chicken pot pie should be stored in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
- Use within three days: Leftover chicken pot pie should be used within three days of being refrigerated.
What to Do if You Leave Chicken Pot Pie Out Overnight
If you accidentally leave chicken pot pie out overnight, do not eat it. Discard the food immediately. Eating spoiled food can lead to food poisoning.
Reheating Chicken Pot Pie
To reheat chicken pot pie, follow these steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place chicken pot pie in a baking dish: Place the leftover chicken pot pie in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil: Cover the baking dish with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes: Bake the chicken pot pie for 30 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Can You Freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie. To freeze chicken pot pie, follow these steps:
- Cool completely: Allow the chicken pot pie to cool completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container: Place the chicken pot pie in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to three months: Chicken pot pie can be frozen for up to three months.
How to Thaw Chicken Pot Pie
To thaw chicken pot pie, follow these steps:
- Thaw in the refrigerator: Thaw the chicken pot pie in the refrigerator overnight.
- Thaw in the microwave: Thaw the chicken pot pie in the microwave on the defrost setting.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I leave chicken pot pie out overnight if it’s in the refrigerator?
A: No, chicken pot pie should not be left out overnight, even if it’s in the refrigerator. The refrigerator will slow down the growth of bacteria, but it will not stop it completely.
Q: What are the symptoms of food poisoning?
A: The symptoms of food poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
Q: How can I prevent food poisoning?
A: There are several things you can do to prevent food poisoning, including:
- Washing your hands thoroughly before handling food
- Cooking food to the proper temperature
- Refrigerating or freezing perishable food promptly
- Avoiding cross-contamination of food
