Common Mistakes Everyone Makes When Cooking Chicken

Chicken is one of the most loved proteins– whether it’s in a spicy curry, a fried rice, or grilled on a Sunday evening. But even though we cook it so often, many of us still make small mistakes that can ruin the flavor, texture, and even safety of the dish. Don’t worry – cooking chicken perfectly isn’t about being a master chef, it’s about knowing a few simple do’s and don’ts.

Here are some common mistakes people make when cooking chicken – and easy tips to help you cook like a pro.

1. Cooking Chicken Straight from the Fridge

• The Mistake: Taking chicken directly from the fridge to the pan or grill.
• Why It’s a Problem: Cold meat cooks unevenly – the outside may brown quickly while the inside remains raw.
• The Fix: Leave the chicken out for about 15–30 minutes before cooking. This helps it reach room temperature and cook evenly.

2. Thawing Frozen Chicken on the Counter

• The Mistake: Leaving frozen chicken out on the kitchen counter to thaw.
• Why It’s a Problem: The outside thaws first while the inside is still frozen, giving bacteria a chance to grow.
• The Fix: Always thaw chicken in the fridge, placing it in a covered bowl on the bottom shelf a day or two before cooking.

3. Washing Chicken Before Cooking

• The Mistake: Rinsing chicken with water before cooking.
• Why It’s a Problem: Washing doesn’t kill germs – instead, water splashes bacteria around the sink, kitchen counters, and utensils.
• The Fix: Skip the wash. Simply pat it dry with paper towels and let cooking heat do the job of killing bacteria.

4. Leaving Chicken Uncovered on the Grill

• The Mistake: Grilling chicken with the lid open the whole time.
• Why It’s a Problem: Direct high heat makes the outside dry and stringy while the inside may remain undercooked.
• The Fix: Close the grill lid for 5–8 minutes at a time. The trapped heat circulates, cooking chicken evenly and locking in moisture.
  
  

Cooking chicken perfectly is all about the small details. By avoiding these common mistakes – letting it rest before cooking, thawing safely, skipping the rinse, and grilling the right way – you’ll end up with juicier, tastier, and safer chicken dishes every single time.

So the next time you’re preparing a curry, a fried rice, or a backyard grill, keep these tips in mind – and taste the difference for yourself.