Yes, if breadcrumb-coated chicken burgers are moist on one side after 50 minutes of cooking in the oven without flipping them, it could indicate that they are undercooked on the uncooked side. When cooking chicken in the oven, especially with breadcrumbs, it's essential to ensure even cooking on both sides to achieve a crispy and fully cooked result.
By not flipping the chicken burgers during cooking, the side in contact with the baking sheet or oven rack may not receive enough direct heat to cook thoroughly, leading to the moisture retention and lack of crispness. The uncooked side may still have raw or undercooked chicken, which can pose a health risk as chicken should always be cooked to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illnesses.
To remedy this, you can take a couple of steps:
Flip the chicken burgers: About halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip the chicken burgers to allow even cooking on both sides. This will ensure that both sides are adequately cooked and that the breadcrumbs on each side become crispy.
Use a meat thermometer: To determine if the chicken burgers are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the burger to ensure it has reached the appropriate temperature.
By following these steps, you can achieve well-cooked, crispy breadcrumb chicken burgers that are safe to eat and delicious. Remember to always practice proper food safety measures when handling and cooking chicken to avoid any health risks.