Final answer:
Cooked grilled chicken should not be held at room temperature for more than two hours due to the risk of bacterial growth. Chicken skin is often removed before eating to reduce fat intake and potential exposure to carcinogens. Following proper handwashing, food storage, and cooking practices are essential for food safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
You can hold cooked grilled chicken for a short period after cooking. However, it is important to practice proper food safety to prevent foodborne illness. Cooked chicken should not be left out at room temperature (about 68 degrees F) for more than two hours because it can enter the danger zone between 40 and 140 degrees F, where bacteria can multiply rapidly. After two hours, you should discard the chicken, even if reheating it, as it may not be safe to consume.
It is recommended to take the skin off chicken before eating to reduce fat and calorie intake as the skin contains high levels of both. Additionally, removing the skin might reduce exposure to certain carcinogens that may form during grilling or smoking. However, some people prefer to eat the skin for flavor or texture preferences.
Regular handwashing, proper food storage, and handling are essential in preventing foodborne illnesses. Also, using a cooking thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F helps to ensure it is safe to eat.