What is the proper safe cooking temperature for chicken coming out of machines?

The proper safe cooking temperature for chicken is 165°F. This temperature is crucial because it ensures that harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can be present in raw poultry, are effectively killed. Cooking chicken to this temperature significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illness and ensures the meat is safe to eat.

In the context of food safety protocols, ensuring that chicken reaches at least 165°F also aligns with guidelines set by health authorities, making it an essential standard in food preparation, especially in a fast-paced environment like Chick-fil-A. This temperature applies not only to chicken cooked in machines but to all forms of poultry to ensure safety and quality in preparation.