New AI Recipe Maker Turn the ingredients you already have into a full recipe in seconds. Try it free

Food safety chart

Safe Cooking Temperature Chart

Find safe internal temperatures for chicken, turkey, ground meat, beef, pork, seafood, eggs, casseroles, leftovers, and more.

Find an internal temperature

Use a food thermometer and check the thickest part of the food. Rest times matter for some cuts.

Chicken and turkey: 165°F / 74°C Results are based on common U.S. food safety temperature guidance.

Food safety

Check internal temperatures before serving

Color and juices are not reliable doneness checks for meat and poultry. A food thermometer gives a clearer answer, especially for chicken, turkey, ground meat, seafood, leftovers, and casseroles.

  • Measure the thickest part of the food and avoid touching bone when checking meat.
  • Let steaks, chops, and roasts rest when the guidance calls for rest time.
  • Reheat leftovers and casseroles thoroughly before serving.

Quick answers

What temperature should chicken reach?

Chicken and turkey should reach 165 F in the thickest part before serving.

Can I judge doneness by color?

Color can be misleading. Use a food thermometer for the safest answer, especially with poultry and ground meat.

Advertisement