Is it still safe to eat roasted chicken that has been refrigerated for 4 days?

Under normal circumstances, roasted chicken that has been refrigerated for four days and shows no signs of spoilage can be consumed. However, if it develops an unpleasant odor, becomes soft or mushy, or shows other signs of spoilage, it should not be eaten. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

A refrigerator's cold environment can inhibit bacterial growth to some extent. If the roasted chicken was promptly sealed and stored immediately after cooking, and kept consistently at a stable low temperature of 0–4°C throughout, it may still be safe to eat after four days—provided it remains visually intact, with firm texture and no sour or slimy surface. In such cases, thoroughly reheating before consumption typically poses no significant health risks.

However, if the chicken was not properly sealed before refrigeration or if the fridge temperature fluctuated significantly, bacteria may have entered and multiplied. Spoiled chicken will often exhibit a mushy texture, a sticky surface, and emit a sour or putrid smell. Consuming such food may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. In these cases, the chicken should be discarded immediately and not consumed.

It is recommended to store cooked foods in sealed containers in the refrigerator and consume them as soon as possible. Always reheat thoroughly before eating, and discard immediately if any signs of spoilage are observed, to avoid potential health risks.