If you’re looking at raw chicken before cooking and get green meat found in the package, here’s what I would recommend:
If it’s store-bought and still within date: Get a quick pic, keep the receipt, and take it back for an exchange or a refund. Most stores will do this readily, especially if it’s known issues like bruising or Green Muscle Disease.
If you have cooked chicken and just discovered green meat inside: Smell and feel the chicken like I mentioned earlier. If it has a clean smell and clean feel, it may be safe, but you have to decide for yourself.
It has odor, slime, or any strange characteristics beyond just the green color: Toss it in the trash. Don’t take chances with food poisoning. Chicken is not a good food to go betting on.
How To Avoid Green Chicken Next Time
Here are a few ways to avoid the green meat surprise next time:
Buy from a reputable source. This isn’t foolproof, but you will generally have better handling and less rough handling of animals, which results in bruising and damage from quality stores.
Check the meat before cooking. Especially true if you are working with whole birds or bone-in breasts. Look for strange color or areas of discoloration.
