Should You Wash Chicken Before Cooking It?
No, you should not wash raw chicken before cooking it. Washing chicken increases the risk of spreading harmful bacteria around your kitchen, which can lead to foodborne illness. Cooking chicken thoroughly is the safest way to kill any germs.
Why People Think They Should Wash Chicken
Many people grow up believing that washing raw chicken is a good habit. Some think it removes dirt, blood, or germs. Others do it because their parents or grandparents taught them this step. Washing food can feel like the right way to keep things clean.
However, when it comes to raw chicken, this belief doesn’t match what we know about food safety today.
What Actually Happens When You Wash Chicken
Washing chicken doesn’t remove bacteria the way you might hope. In fact, food safety experts say running chicken under the tap does not clean it. Instead, it can cause a problem called “cross-contamination.”
Here’s what that means: when water hits raw chicken, tiny droplets splash off the meat and land on nearby surfaces—your sink, counters, dishes, and even your hands or clothes. These droplets can carry bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are common on raw poultry. Even a small splash can spread these bacteria up to three feet away.
This makes it much easier for germs to get onto foods that won’t be cooked, like salads or fruits, and into your mouth. You can’t see or smell these germs, but they can cause serious food poisoning.1
What the Experts Say
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other food safety authorities agree: Do not wash raw chicken.
They recommend this because studies show that washing chicken spreads bacteria and raises the risk of getting sick. These health organizations also emphasize that thorough cooking is the only way to kill the harmful bacteria found on raw chicken.23
Does Rinsing Chicken Remove Germs?
No. Rinsing may remove some slimy residue, but it does not get rid of bacteria. The heat from cooking is what actually destroys these germs.
Cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is the only way to ensure it’s safe to eat. At this temperature, any bacteria that were present on the raw chicken are killed.
What About Cleaning Other Foods?
Some foods, like fruits and vegetables, should be washed before eating. They often have dirt or pesticides on the surface. But this rule does not apply to meat, poultry, or fish. Washing these foods only increases the risk of spreading bacteria.
How to Handle Chicken Safely
If you want to keep your kitchen safe, focus on these steps instead of washing your chicken:
1. Keep Chicken Cold
Store raw chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Use a sealed container to keep juices from leaking onto other foods.
2. Prepare Carefully
When handling chicken, use a separate cutting board and utensils. Don’t let the raw meat touch other foods.
3. Wash Your Hands and Tools
After touching raw chicken, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Clean all surfaces, knives, and cutting boards with hot, soapy water.
4. Cook Thoroughly
Use a food thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Don’t rely on color or juices alone.
5. Store Leftovers Safely
Put any leftover cooked chicken in the refrigerator within two hours. Eat leftovers within three to four days.
Common Questions and Myths
“But what about the slime or smell?”
If chicken smells “off” or has a strange, sticky texture, it may be spoiled. Rinsing won’t fix this. Throw it away if it doesn’t seem fresh.
“Can I soak chicken in vinegar or lemon juice?”
Some people soak chicken in vinegar or lemon water, hoping to kill germs or improve the taste. While this may change the flavor, it does not kill bacteria. Only heat can do that.
“What if there’s blood or visible dirt?”
Dab away blood spots with a clean paper towel if needed. But there’s no need to rinse. Any bacteria will be killed during cooking.
The Bottom Line
Washing raw chicken does not make it cleaner or safer. It spreads bacteria around your kitchen and increases your risk of food poisoning. Skip the rinse and focus on safe handling and proper cooking instead.
FAQs
1. Is it ever safe to wash chicken?
No, washing chicken is not recommended. It does not remove germs and increases the chance of spreading bacteria.
2. How should I prepare chicken before cooking?
Remove it from packaging, pat it dry with a paper towel if needed, and cook it thoroughly. Clean your hands and surfaces after handling.
3. What if my family always washed chicken before?
It’s common in some cultures, but modern food safety science advises against it. Change this habit to protect yourself and your family.
4. How do I know if the chicken is cooked enough?
Use a food thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.
5. What should I do if I accidentally wash chicken?
Clean and disinfect all surfaces that may have come in contact with raw chicken or splashed water. Wash your hands well and cook the chicken thoroughly.
