Grill chicken with or without skin?

Chicken breast with skin:

* Pros:

1. More flavor and juicy: The skin helps to retain the natural juices of the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and moist end product.

2. Crispy texture: The skin can be crisped up on the grill, adding an appealing textural contrast to the tender chicken.

3. Extra layer of protection: The skin acts as a barrier, protecting the chicken from drying out and burning.

* Cons:

1. Higher fat content: The skin is where most of the fat in chicken is concentrated, so leaving it on can increase the overall calorie and fat content of the meal.

2. Potential for carcinogens: When chicken skin is grilled at high temperatures, it can produce harmful compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Chicken breast without skin:

* Pros:

1. Lower calorie and fat: Removing the skin significantly reduces the calorie and fat content of chicken, making it a healthier option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a balanced diet.

2. Reduced risk of carcinogens: Since the skin is removed, there is no risk of HCAs and PAHs formation when grilling chicken without the skin.

* Cons:

1. Less flavor: Removing the skin can result in a less flavorful chicken, as some of the natural juices and fats that contribute to taste are lost.

2. Dries out more easily: Without the skin to protect it, boneless, skinless chicken breast can dry out more easily during grilling, especially if it is not cooked properly.