What is the correct temperature for fried chicken to be deemed safe for consumption?

The safe cooking temperature for fried chicken is 165°F. At this temperature, harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli are effectively killed, ensuring that the meat is safe to eat. This temperature guideline is recommended by the USDA for poultry products, which includes chicken. Cooking chicken to this temperature also helps to ensure that the meat is properly cooked, achieving both safety and quality in texture and flavor.

While other options represent temperatures that are higher or lower than the recommended safe minimum, cooking chicken to at least 165°F is essential to eliminate the risk of foodborne illness. Temperatures higher than that, such as 170°F or 180°F, might also be safe, but they exceed the minimum requirement for ensuring safety. It's critical in food safety practices to adhere to the established guideline of 165°F to maintain both health standards and cooking efficiency.