At What Temperature Is Raw Chicken Fully Cooked? Safe Cooking Guidelines

Learn the safe internal temperature to fully cook raw chicken and ensure food safety using a meat thermometer.

Published

Video transcript

Raw chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone.

Questions and answers

  1. Why is 165°F the safe temperature for cooking chicken?

    165°F (75°C) is recommended because it kills harmful bacteria like salmonella, ensuring the chicken is safe to eat.

  2. How can I accurately measure the internal temperature of chicken?

    Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken without touching bone to get an accurate reading.

  3. What happens if chicken is cooked below 165°F?

    Cooking chicken below 165°F may not kill all harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

  4. Can color alone determine if chicken is fully cooked?

    No, color is not a reliable indicator; always use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature.