No, it is not safe to leave chicken out overnight, even if you put it in the fridge right away. The general rule for perishable foods, including raw chicken, is the "2-hour rule." This means that perishable items should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
When food, especially raw meat like chicken, is left at room temperature, it creates an environment where bacteria can multiply rapidly. Bacteria grow most rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), known as the "danger zone." The longer chicken sits in the danger zone, the higher the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illness.
While refrigeration slows down bacterial growth significantly, it doesn't stop it completely. Putting the chicken in the fridge after it has been left out for some time won't bring the temperature down fast enough to prevent bacteria from multiplying.
If you accidentally leave raw chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it's best to discard it to avoid the risk of food poisoning. The same rule applies to other perishable foods like beef, pork, fish, and dairy products.
To ensure food safety:
Follow the 2-hour rule: Never leave perishable foods, including raw chicken, at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Use a food thermometer: Ensure that the internal temperature of cooked chicken reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.
Refrigerate promptly: Once the chicken has been cooked or purchased, refrigerate it promptly to slow down bacterial growth. Store it at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Properly handle leftovers: When storing leftover cooked chicken, refrigerate it within 2 hours after cooking. Use shallow containers to allow for faster cooling in the refrigerator.
Thaw safely: If you're thawing frozen chicken, do so in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
Food safety is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses, so it's essential to handle, store, and cook chicken and other perishable foods properly.