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Introduction
Many home cooks believe that washing raw chicken before cooking is a necessary step to remove bacteria and slime. However, this practice does more harm than good. According to food safety experts, rinsing chicken under running water can spread harmful bacteria around your kitchen, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. This article will explain why you should never wash chicken, provide safe handling tips, and offer alternative ways to ensure your chicken is clean and safe to eat.
Why You Shouldn’t Wash Chicken
Raw chicken is often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. When you rinse chicken under running water, tiny water droplets can carry these bacteria onto your sink, countertops, utensils, and even your hands. This process, known as cross-contamination, can lead to serious food poisoning.
Instead of washing chicken, the best way to kill bacteria is to cook it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Heat effectively eliminates harmful bacteria, ensuring that your chicken is safe to eat.
Safe Handling and Preparation Tips
To prevent foodborne illness, follow these guidelines when handling raw chicken:
Keep raw chicken separate from other foods, especially those that won’t be cooked (e.g., fruits, vegetables, and salads).
Use a dedicated cutting board for raw poultry to prevent cross-contamination.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw chicken.
Sanitize countertops and utensils after contact with raw poultry.
Always cook chicken to 165°F (75°C) and use a food thermometer to check.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving
Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Serve chicken hot and avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F/32°C).
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in an airtight container. They will last 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 4 months in a sealed container.
Reheat leftovers to 165°F (75°C) before eating.
Common Variations in Chicken Preparation
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