I always rinse and pat dry my chicken before seasoning. Just make sure to avoid any cross-contamination in your kitchen when doing so: 1. Empty your sink of all items before rinsing chicken. 2. Avoid splashing any water or chicken juice on other surfaces. 3. Place rinsed chicken on a paper towel-lined rimmed cookie sheet next to the sink. 4. Pat dry with more paper towels and immediately throw used towels away. 5. Thoroughly wash cookie sheet, sink, and your hands with soap and water