What Is the Safe Internal Temperature for Cooking Chicken in the Oven?
Learn the safe internal temperature to cook chicken in the oven for perfect flavor and food safety—165°F (74°C) is key.
Video transcript
For safety and optimal flavor, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to verify the thickest part of the chicken has reached this temperature. This ensures harmful bacteria are destroyed, making the chicken safe to eat.
Questions and answers
Why should chicken be cooked to 165°F?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that harmful bacteria like Salmonella are destroyed, making it safe to eat.
How do I check the internal temperature of chicken?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to accurately measure its internal temperature.
Can I cook chicken at a lower temperature if I cook it longer?
Cooking chicken at lower temperatures for longer periods is possible, but it is essential that the internal temperature still reaches 165°F to ensure safety.
Related questions
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