what temp should chicken be cooked to

Mon, 04 May 2026 18:48:48 +0000

What Temperature Should Chicken Be Cooked To? A Complete Guide to Food Safety and Perfectly Cooked Chicken Cooking chicken to the right internal temperature isn’t just about getting a perfectly tender result — it’s critical for food safety. Undercooked chicken can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to more severe health complications. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the minimum safe internal temperature for chicken, why it matters, how to use a meat thermometer accurately, and tips to ensure your chicken is both safe and delicious. --- ### Why Temperature Matters: The Science Behind Cooking Chicken Safely