Should You Wash Raw Chicken Before Cooking? Here’s What the Experts Say
Some people swear by rinsing raw chicken. Others say it’s a big no-no. But what’s the truth? Is washing chicken actually helpful — or just risky?
Here’s what the science says, and what you should actually be doing before cooking.
🚿 Why People Wash Chicken
Let’s be real: raw chicken can look slimy and weird. Many home cooks wash it to:
“Clean it” or rinse off bacteria
Get rid of slime or leftover blood
Follow family tradition (abuelita always did it!)
It feels like the safe thing to do — but…
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Wash Chicken
Washing chicken doesn’t kill bacteria — it spreads it.
✅ According to the USDA and CDC:
“Washing raw poultry can spread bacteria to sinks, counters, and other foods.”
When you rinse chicken under running water, tiny droplets can travel up to 3 feet. That’s how salmonella and campylobacter end up on your cutting board, fruit bowl, or dish towel.
🧪 The Science: Cooking = Killing Bacteria
You don’t need to wash chicken because heat does the job.
At 165°F (74°C), all the bad stuff dies.
No rinsing needed. No scrubbing. Just cook it to temp.
✅ Use a meat thermometer if you're not sure. (And if you don’t have one, get one — it’s game-changing.)
🧼 What You Should Do Instead
Here’s how to prep chicken the safe way:
Take it out of the package
Pat it dry with paper towels (this helps it brown better)
Season it
Wash your hands and sanitize surfaces
Cook to 165°F internally
Rest it, slice it, devour it 🔥
👵 But What About Tradition?
We get it — lots of us grew up watching parents or grandparents rinse meat. It’s cultural. It’s comforting. But food safety guidance has changed with science.
💡 If the idea of skipping a rinse still weirds you out:
Pat it very well with paper towels
Trim off any unpleasant bits
Cook with confidence
👨🍳 Final Thoughts
Washing chicken isn’t just unnecessary — it can be risky. Keep it clean by skipping the rinse, drying the surface, and focusing on safe handling and proper cooking temps.
It’s not about disrespecting tradition — it’s about cooking smarter (and staying healthy).
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🔍 FAQ
What if my chicken smells weird?
Slight odor is normal in packaged poultry. If it smells really bad or sour after drying it off, toss it.
Can I wash it with vinegar or lemon juice?
You can — but it won’t kill bacteria. It’s more about personal preference than safety.
Do chefs wash chicken?
Most professional kitchens don’t — they rely on proper cooking and clean prep stations.
