Raw chicken can be a delicious and versatile ingredient in many dishes, but it’s important to handle it properly to ensure food safety. Improper handling of raw chicken can lead to contamination and increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. Here are some essential tips to help you handle raw chicken safely:
1. Keep it separate
Always keep raw chicken separate from other foods, especially those that won’t be cooked before consumption. This helps prevent cross-contamination, where bacteria from raw chicken can transfer to other foods, utensils, or surfaces.
Remember to:
Store raw chicken in a sealed container or in a leak-proof bag to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other ingredients. Consider using color-coded items to easily differentiate.
2. Store it properly
Proper storage of raw chicken is crucial to maintain its freshness and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Here’s how to store raw chicken:
Keep raw chicken in the coldest part of your refrigerator, at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
Place the chicken on a tray or in a container to catch any drips and prevent cross-contamination.
Consume or freeze the chicken within a few days of purchasing to maintain its quality.
3. Clean thoroughly
Cleaning plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of bacteria present in raw chicken.
Follow these cleaning steps:
Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw chicken.
Clean any utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken using hot, soapy water.
Sanitize your kitchen surfaces regularly with a mild bleach solution or a kitchen sanitizer.
4. Cook it thoroughly
Cooking raw chicken to the proper internal temperature kills harmful bacteria, ensuring that it is safe to eat.
Here are some guidelines:
Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
Avoid eating undercooked chicken or dishes that contain undercooked chicken, as they may pose a health risk.
By following these tips, you can handle raw chicken safely and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Remember, proper food handling practices not only protect your health but also enhance the overall dining experience. Enjoy cooking delicious meals using raw chicken, while prioritizing food safety every step of the way!
Share your tips and techniques for safely handling raw chicken in the Cooking Techniques forum section. Join the discussion on “How To Handle Raw Chicken” and help others learn best practices in the kitchen.
FAQ:
How should raw chicken be stored in the refrigerator?
Raw chicken should always be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). It is important to keep it in a sealed container or a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent any raw juices from contaminating other foods in the fridge.
Should raw chicken be washed before cooking?
No, it is not recommended to wash raw chicken before cooking. Washing raw chicken can actually increase the risk of spreading bacteria, such as Salmonella, by splashing the bacteria-infected water onto surfaces in your kitchen. Cooking the chicken thoroughly will kill any harmful bacteria.
What should be done with cutting boards and utensils after preparing raw chicken?
Cutting boards and utensils that have been in contact with raw chicken should be washed with hot, soapy water immediately after use. It is best to use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination with other foods. Additionally, consider sanitizing them with a diluted bleach solution to ensure thorough disinfection.
How can I safely defrost raw chicken?
The safest way to defrost raw chicken is by thawing it in the refrigerator. Place the chicken on a plate or in a container to catch any juices that may leak, and let it defrost for several hours or overnight. If you are short on time, you can also use the defrost setting on your microwave or place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water.
Can marinade from raw chicken be reused for cooking?
No, marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken should never be reused for cooking unless it has been boiled first. This is because the marinade can be contaminated with harmful bacteria from the raw chicken. To be safe, discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
How long can raw chicken be refrigerated before it needs to be cooked?
Ideally, raw chicken should be cooked within 1 to 2 days of being refrigerated. If you are not planning to cook it immediately, it is best to store it in the freezer. Frozen chicken can remain safe to eat indefinitely, but for the best quality, it is recommended to use it within 9 months to 1 year.
What is the recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). To ensure that chicken is cooked thoroughly, it is crucial to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat. This will help to eliminate any harmful bacteria and ensure that the chicken is safe to eat.
