Will cooking chicken in a crock pot kill bacteria?

No, cooking chicken in a crock pot alone does not guarantee that all bacteria will be killed.

Here's why:

* Temperature is key: The USDA recommends cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria.

* Slow and low: Crock pots cook food at a lower temperature and for a longer duration than traditional cooking methods. This can sometimes be insufficient to reach the safe internal temperature for chicken.

* Uneven cooking: Crock pots can have hot and cold spots, leading to uneven cooking and potentially leaving some areas of the chicken undercooked.

Here's what you can do to ensure your chicken is safe:

* Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding bone, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

* Cook chicken on high: Cooking your chicken on the high setting for the first few hours can help it reach a safe temperature faster.

* Cut the chicken into smaller pieces: Smaller pieces of chicken will cook more evenly and reach a safe temperature quicker.

* Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.

Always err on the side of caution when cooking chicken, especially in a crock pot. If you're unsure, it's always better to cook the chicken longer than you think is necessary.