Even professional chefs are split on the issue. Julia Child was a proponent of washing chicken, whereas Ina Garten has publicly stated there’s no need to wash chicken or other meats. Garten’s stance is supported by scientific evidence, and aside from ingrained habits, there’s little reason to continue washing chicken given the potential risks involved. Like some other foods that should never be washed before cooking, chicken carries a significant risk of food poisoning, necessitating caution.

For those who still feel compelled to wash their chicken, Drexel University food safety researcher Jennifer Quinlan suggested trying not washing it once to see if there’s a noticeable difference. If sliminess is a concern, patting the chicken dry with a paper towel can be a safe alternative.

If you decide to keep washing your chicken, you must thoroughly disinfect any surfaces that come into contact with the splashing water to prevent cross-contamination, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or any items it has touched. Proper handling and preparation of raw poultry are crucial for health, and washing chicken is just one of many common mistakes made during its preparation.