How long can cooked chicken sit out for?

Question

I bought a chicken quesadilla last night, but could only eat 1/2 of it. So, I packed the rest for lunch today. However, I had some errands to run before going into work today. So the chicken probably sat out for about an hour (possibly an hour, 15 minutes) before I could get it into the fridge at work.

Would it still be safe to it? I'm pregnant so I'm trying to be very careful about what I put in my mouth as I know that food poisoning can kill a fetus.

Thanks for reading and taking the time to answer!

Answer 1

I would say it would be OK, Just think, when you go on picnics outside food sometimes sits for an hour or so and it is usually hot outside.

Also, I have read that you shouldn't leave cooked food out any longer than 3-4 hours.

So your chicken should be alright.

Answer 2

hey, im 23 weeks pregnant, and i wouldnt eat it. its not worth the risk. chicken especially.

Answer 3

If the food was put away promptly last night, then was only out for an hour fifteen, you will be fine. Food can be in the "danger zone" (40-140 degrees fahrenheit) for up to a total of 4 hours before it should be thrown out. Keep in mind that the place you bought it from also had the product out for about an hour before you got it. If all this time is not yet equal to 4 hours, your ok. If in doubt, trash it. Make sure when you re-warm it, you get it above 160 degrees.  

Answer 4

You haven't told us how hot it was where you left it. The probability is it will be okay, unless it's like here today where it is 37c. It would quickly go off with temperatures like that.

I always say, "if in doubt, throw it out"

Answer 5

If you are pregnant dont eat anything you are not sure about. I wouldnt.

Answer 6

If food has been sitting at room temperature (in the "danger zone") for up to 2 hours, refrigerate it or reheat it. After food has been sitting out for 2 to 4 hours, throw it out. Potentially hazardous foods (like cut melons, meats, dairy, fish, etc.) should never be eaten if they have been sitting out for more than 4 hours