USDA: chicken wings are safe at 165°F (74°C). For tender, less rubbery wings, ThermoWorks recommends cooking them to about 175°F (79°C).
- USDA safe minimum
- 165°F74°C internal temperature
- Rest time
- NoneNo rest required
- Doneness range
- 175–175°FTender, juicy to tender, juicy
- Safe & popular
- 175°FTender, juicy
- 175°FTender, juicy79°C
Safe minimums from USDA FSIS and FoodSafety.gov. Checked .
Chicken wings temperature chart
| Doneness | °F | °C | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tender, juicy | 175°F | 79°C | ThermoWorks target; more collagen breaks down than at 165°F |
Doneness targets come from the culinary sources listed below. USDA's food-safety minimum is 165°F (74°C); anything below it is a personal risk choice.
Safe temperature for chicken wings
USDA: chicken wings are safe at 165°F (74°C). For tender, less rubbery wings, ThermoWorks recommends cooking them to about 175°F (79°C).
Where to put the thermometer
Insert into the thickest part of the drumette or flat, not touching bone (USDA FSIS: check the innermost wing).
Questions people ask
Are wings done at 165°F?
They're safe at 165°F, but ThermoWorks says 175°F gives juicier, less chewy meat.
How do you check the temp of small wings?
Use a thin instant-read probe in the meatiest part of the drumette, staying off the bone.
What is the minimum internal cooking temperature for chicken wings?
USDA: chicken wings are safe at 165°F (74°C). For tender, less rubbery wings, ThermoWorks recommends cooking them to about 175°F (79°C).
What is the minimum internal cooking temp for chicken wings?
USDA: chicken wings are safe at 165°F (74°C). For tender, less rubbery wings, ThermoWorks recommends cooking them to about 175°F (79°C).