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What minimum internal temperature should grilled chicken and other poultry reach?

165°F, including ground poultry.

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  1. 165°F ✔
  2. 145°F
  3. 160°F

Why: All poultry, ground or whole pieces, needs 165°F to be safe. Check the thickest part with a food thermometer. Chicken can look cooked on the grill and still be raw inside.

Huh, didn't know that: Whole cuts of beef, pork, lamb and veal need only 145°F, plus a 3 minute rest.

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Why did the chicken get a penalty? For fowl play.
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References

Answer: 165°F. All poultry, ground or whole pieces, needs 165°F to be safe. Check the thickest part with a food thermometer. Chicken can look cooked on the grill and still be raw inside.

  1. USDA FSIS: Grilling and Food Safety www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/grilling-and-food-safety
    All poultry (including ground) should reach a minimum of 165 °F.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. USDA FSIS: Grilling and Food Safety www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/grilling-and-food-safety
    Cook beef, pork, veal, and lamb (steaks, roasts and chops) to 145°F and allow to rest for 3 minutes.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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