You’ll Never Guess the EXACT Temperature Chickens Need to Cook at—Shockingly Precise!

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:19:04 +0000

# You’ll Never Guess the EXACT Temperature Chickens Need to Cook At—Shockingly Precise! When it comes to cooking chicken, most home cooks and even professional chefs recognize that doneness depends on temperature—but did you know the ideal temperature is exact? That’s right: the exact temperature required to cook chicken perfectly isn’t guesswork or a vague “medium-rare” standard. It’s precise, and rare knowledge that can transform your kitchen results. ### Why Exactly 165°F (74°C) Is the Gold Standard Chicken skin and meat don’t just cook safely at a range—they must reach a specific internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, ensuring food safety. But here’s the crucial part: this temperature must be measured at the thickest part of the meat, usually the innermost section of the breast, thigh, or whole chicken, while avoiding bone contact.