How long to cook chicken in oven 350?

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How Long to Cook Chicken in Oven 350?

Cooking chicken in the oven is a popular method for many home cooks, and it’s often a staple in many meal plans. But how long do you need to cook chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C)? The answer depends on several factors, including the size and type of chicken, the level of doneness you prefer, and the cooking method. In this article, we’ll explore the answers to these questions and provide some guidelines to help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken.

Understanding Cooking Times

Before we dive into the cooking times, it’s essential to understand that cooking chicken is a complex process. The internal temperature of the chicken, the thickness of the meat, and the type of cooking method used all play a significant role in determining the cooking time.

Cooking Times for Whole Chicken

**Whole Chicken Cooking Times

SizeWeightCooking TimeInternal Temperature
Small3-4 lbs45-50 minutes165°F (74°C)
Medium4-5 lbs50-55 minutes165°F (74°C)
Large5-6 lbs55-60 minutes165°F (74°C)
Extra-Large6-7 lbs60-65 minutes165°F (74°C)

As you can see from the table above, the cooking time for a whole chicken increases as the size of the chicken increases. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Times for Chicken Breasts

**Chicken Breast Cooking Times

ThicknessCooking TimeInternal Temperature
1-1.5 inches20-25 minutes165°F (74°C)
1.5-2 inches25-30 minutes165°F (74°C)
2-2.5 inches30-35 minutes165°F (74°C)

For chicken breasts, the cooking time depends on the thickness of the meat. Thicker breasts will take longer to cook than thinner ones. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Times for Chicken Thighs

**Chicken Thigh Cooking Times

SizeWeightCooking TimeInternal Temperature
Small3-4 oz15-20 minutes165°F (74°C)
Medium4-6 oz20-25 minutes165°F (74°C)
Large6-8 oz25-30 minutes165°F (74°C)

For chicken thighs, the cooking time depends on the size of the thighs. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Cooking Chicken in the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Season the chicken with your desired herbs and spices.
  • Place the chicken in a single layer in a baking dish.
  • Baste the chicken with olive oil or melted butter.
  • Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) can be a simple and delicious way to prepare this popular protein. By understanding the cooking times for whole chicken, chicken breasts, and chicken thighs, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). With these tips and guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master of oven-cooked chicken.

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