What does chicken muscle look like?

1. Color: Raw chicken muscle typically ranges in color from light pinkish-white to a more intense reddish-pink.

2. Texture: Chicken muscle has a firm, yet slightly flexible texture when raw. It should not feel mushy or excessively soft.

3. Grain: Chicken muscle fibers run in a parallel fashion, creating a distinct grain pattern when viewed in cross-section.

4. Sheen: Raw chicken muscle often has a glossy or shiny appearance, which is a sign of freshness.

5. Moisture: Fresh chicken muscle should have a moist surface, but it should not be overly wet or slimy.

6. Fat Marbling: Chicken muscle may have varying degrees of intramuscular fat, which appears as small, white specks or streaks within the meat.

7. Tendons: Some chicken muscle cuts may contain white, rope-like tendons that are not edible and need to be removed before cooking.

8. Veins and Arteries: Chicken muscle can sometimes have visible blood vessels, which appear as thin, red lines or dots. These are harmless and can be trimmed off if desired.

9. Bone Structure: Chicken muscle cuts that include bone may have a thin, white layer of cartilage attached to the bone, especially around the joints. This cartilage is edible but can be removed based on personal preference.