Name: chicken cooking temp
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings); 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color); ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (for extra flavor); Meat thermometer (essential for checking the chicken cooking temp)

Description

Learn the ideal chicken cooking temp for each cut! Avoid common mistakes, use the right methods, and cook juicy, safe chicken every time.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs chicken (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (for extra flavor)
Meat thermometer (essential for checking the chicken cooking temp)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:

Remove chicken from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Pat dry with paper towels for a better sear and even cooking.

2️⃣ Season Generously:

In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning mix.

3️⃣ Cook Using Your Preferred Method:

Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake chicken breast for 20-25 minutes, thighs for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
Grilling: Grill over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
Pan-Searing: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, then finish in the oven if needed.
Air Frying: Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Slow Cooking: Set to low heat for 4-6 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

4️⃣ Check the Temperature:

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken.
Ensure it reads at least 165°F (75°C) for white meat and 175-185°F (79-85°C) for dark meat.

5️⃣ Rest & Serve:

Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
Serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Notes

✅ Don’t skip the thermometer! Color alone isn’t a reliable indicator of doneness.
✅ Adjust seasoning to your taste—add lemon zest for freshness or cayenne for heat.
✅ For extra moisture, brine chicken in saltwater for 30 minutes before cooking.
✅ Letting chicken rest keeps it juicy and prevents moisture loss.

Now you’re all set to cook perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken every time! 🍗🔥