Chicken Cooking Temperatures

Chicken cooking times and temperatures are essential to ensure that chicken is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat. It is important to cook chicken to the proper internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria and avoid foodborne illnesses. The cooking time for chicken depends on the cooking method and the cut of chicken being cooked. Whether you're grilling, baking, frying, or roasting chicken, knowing the correct cooking times and temperatures will help you achieve juicy, flavorful results every time.

Safe Cooking Temperature for Chicken

Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure it is safe to consume. This temperature is important because it kills any harmful bacteria that may be present in the chicken.

When chicken is not cooked to the proper temperature, it can lead to the risk of Salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. Salmonella is a bacteria commonly found in raw poultry and can cause severe symptoms if consumed.

How to Check Temperature of Chicken

To measure the internal temperature of chicken, it is recommended to use a probe food thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding bones and any areas with stuffing. Make sure the thermometer is not touching the bottom of the pan, as this can give an inaccurate reading. Cooking times will vary depending on the size and type of chicken being cooked. Whole chickens will take longer to cook compared to chicken cuts or boneless, skinless breasts. It is always best to follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures provided in recipes or by the USDA. For the best results, properly thaw your chicken before cooking.

Chicken Internal Temp

While the safe cooking temperature of chicken remains relatively the same regardless of the cut, the cooking times may vary. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat. We’ve created a list of cooking temperatures and times for the most popular cuts of chicken.

1. Whole Chicken Temp

When cooking a whole chicken, you'll need to check the temperature in multiple places to ensure even cooking. The thickest part of the chicken, typically the thigh, should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, 180 degrees Fahrenheit if stuffed. Consider preparing the stuffing separately to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses from uneven cooking.

• How to Tell If Whole Chicken Is Done? The thermometer should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part of the chicken (180 degrees Fahrenheit if stuffed). The internal juices should run clear instead of red or pink when the flesh is pierced, and the meat should be white in color.
• Roasted Whole Chicken Cook Time: Around 20 minutes per pound; 1 hour 40 minutes (2 hours 10 minutes if stuffed) at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 lb. chicken
• Grilled Whole Chicken Cook Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes for 4 lb. chicken

2. Chicken Breast Temp

Chicken breasts are one of the most popular cuts of chicken for sandwiches, salads, and entrees. The internal temperature of chicken breasts should reach a minimum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safe consumption. This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria, such as salmonella or Campylobacter, are killed, making the chicken safe to eat.

• How to Tell If Chicken Breast Is Done? When the thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The juices should run clear when chicken is cut and the meat should be white or light tan in color.
• Roasted Chicken Breast Cook Time: 25-30 minutes for 4 oz. boneless breast (35-40 minutes for bone-in breast) at 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Grilled Chicken Breast Cook Time: 6-9 minutes per side for 4 oz. boneless breast (10-15 minutes per side for 6 oz. bone-in breast)

3. Chicken Tenderloin Temp

Chicken tenderloins are lean cuts of meat that are often battered and fried for chicken tenders, grilled for kabobs, or sauteed to top off chicken salads. These small, tender cuts of chicken cook quickly and should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How to Tell If Chicken Tenderloin Is Done? The internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, the meat is firm to the touch, and juices run clear when pierced. There should be no pink in the meat when cut.
• Breaded Chicken Tenderloin Cook Time: 15-20 minutes baked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit
• Grilled Chicken Tenderloin Cook Time: 4-5 minutes per side for 2-3 oz. tenderloin
• Fried Chicken Tenders Cook Time: 8-10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit

4. Chicken Wings Temp

Chicken wings are a popular appetizer or party food on game day. Whether you are grilling, baking, or frying chicken wings, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to check for safe food temperatures. The recommended internal temperature for chicken wings is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How to Tell If Chicken Wings Are Done? Internal temperature must reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when the thermometer is inserted, avoiding the bone. The juices should run clear. If red or pink, the chicken needs more time.
• Roasted Chicken Wings Cook Time: 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Grilled Chicken Wings Cook Time: 8 minutes per side
• Fried Chicken Wings Cook Time: 8-10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit

5. Chicken Drumstick Temp

Drumsticks are a favorite part of the chicken, especially for grilling or barbecuing. To ensure that drumsticks are cooked to a safe internal temperature, they should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The meat near the bone takes longer to cook. You’ll need to insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick, without touching the bone, to get an accurate reading.

• How to Tell If Chicken Drumsticks Are Done? The thermometer should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit where the meat is thickest. The juices should run clear and the meat should be a darker tan, without any pink.
• Baked Chicken Drumsticks Cook Time: 35-45 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (flipping drumstick at the 20-minute mark)
• Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (flipping over every 5-10 minutes)

6. Chicken Thighs Temp

Chicken thighs are known for their juicy and flavorful meat, perfect for baking or grilling. It is essential to cook this dark meat cut thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. The recommended internal temperature for chicken thighs is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How to Tell If Chicken Thighs Are Done? Chicken thighs will be golden-brown on the outside and a light tan on the inside when done. Temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit without hitting the bone. If the juices are red or pink, the meat needs more time.
• Baked Chicken Thighs Cook Time: 20-30 minutes for boneless chicken thighs (35-45 minutes for bone-in chicken thighs) at 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Grilled Chicken Thighs Cook Time: 5-10 minutes per side

Chicken Temperature FAQ

Below are some of the most common questions asked about chicken temperature and storage:

How Long Does It Take To Cook Chicken?

When it comes to cooking chicken, the cooking time can vary depending on the method used and the cut of chicken being cooked. Generally, boneless chicken breasts take around 25-30 minutes to cook in an oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks may take 35-45 minutes. Grilling chicken typically takes around 5-15 minutes per side, while frying chicken can take 5-10 minutes per piece. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a minimum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and that the juices run clear to ensure it is safe to eat.

How Long to Let Chicken Rest?

Resting chicken after cooking is an essential step to ensure juicy and flavorful meat. After reaching the recommended internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it is crucial to let smaller cuts of chicken (chicken breast, wings, and tenderloin) rest for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. A whole chicken should rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and moist texture. Resting also helps to retain the heat and prevents the chicken from becoming dry. So, remember to give your chicken a few minutes to rest under aluminum foil before serving to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal.

How Long Can a Cooked Chicken Sit Out?

Cooked chicken should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, also known as the "danger zone." To prevent foodborne illnesses, it is important to keep cooked chicken refrigerated or heated above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need to keep cooked chicken out for longer periods, consider using warming equipment or keeping it in a chafing dish to maintain a safe temperature.

How Long Does Cooked Chicken Last in the Fridge?

After cooking chicken, store it properly to ensure its safety and quality. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To maintain its freshness, it is recommended to keep the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When reheating cooked chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill any potential bacteria. Proper storage and handling of cooked chicken will help maintain its taste and texture while keeping it safe for consumption.

Understanding and adhering to proper chicken cooking temperatures is crucial in ensuring food safety and delivering high-quality dishes. By following the recommended guidelines, businesses can prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses and provide customers with delicious and safe meals. Remember to use a reliable food thermometer to accurately measure the temperature and always handle raw chicken with care to avoid cross-contamination.