Should You Wash Chicken After Marinating? What You Need to Know

Discover the best practices for handling marinated chicken and food safety tips.

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No, it's not recommended to wash chicken after marinating. Rinsing can spread bacteria onto your sink and kitchen surfaces, increasing the risk of contamination. Instead, you can pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove any excess marinade. Always ensure to cook chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

FAQs & Answers

  1. Is it safe to wash chicken? No, washing chicken can spread bacteria. It's best to cook it directly.
  2. How should I prepare chicken before cooking? Pat the chicken dry with paper towels after marinating and ensure it cooks to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  3. What happens if I wash marinated chicken? Washing marinated chicken can contaminate your kitchen surfaces and increase food safety risks.
  4. What is the safest way to marinate chicken? Marinate in the refrigerator and avoid washing the chicken after. Cook it thoroughly afterward.