Calorie Chart / Meat & Eggs / Chicken
How Many Calories Are in Chicken?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of chicken
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 255 kcal | Proteins 30 g | Lipids 15 g | Carbohydrates 0 g |
| 13% | 40% | 22% | 0% |
Health benefits of chicken
Chicken - 100g
Calories 170 kcal
Proteins 20 g
Lipids 10 g
Carbohydrates 0 g
Chicken is generally classified as a moderate-calorie food: it delivers a useful amount of energy without the calorie overload often linked to fattier meats. These calories are largely made up of high-quality proteins that supply all essential amino acids necessary for muscle maintenance and immune function. Because the calories come with very little carbohydrate, chicken fits low-carb or ketogenic plans particularly well.
Beyond calories and proteins, chicken provides notable quantities of niacin (vitamin B3) and vitamin B6, both involved in normal energy metabolism and reduction of tiredness. It is also a good source of selenium, an antioxidant mineral, and offers phosphorus and zinc in smaller but meaningful amounts. Compared with red meats such as beef steak or lamb chop, chicken's calories usually contain a lower proportion of saturated fat, which may support cardiovascular goals.
The low connective tissue content makes chicken easy to digest, a point appreciated by athletes looking to refuel without heavy calories before or after training. Historically, the bird was domesticated in Southeast Asia over 7,000 years ago; its worldwide spread has turned these moderate calories into a staple in countless culinary traditions.
Whether your objective is to lose weight, gain lean mass, or simply balance daily calories, chicken offers versatility, nutritional density, and a flavor profile that pairs well with a wide range of vegetables and grains.
Tips for incorporating chicken into a balanced diet
If you monitor calories closely, choose skinless preparations such as grilled strips served over a bowl of quinoa and steamed broccoli. This trio supplies filling proteins, fiber, and minerals while keeping calories under control. A drizzle of lemon and soy sauce adds punch without piling on extra calories.
For a comforting dish, try the recipe page chicken curry with rice. Replace white rice with brown rice or even cauliflower "rice" if you wish to trim calories further. Spices like turmeric enhance flavor, so you need less oil—another subtle way to shave calories.
Fans of smoky aromas can marinate pieces with yogurt and spices, then follow the method on tandoori chicken. Serve alongside a crisp salad of cucumber, tomato, and arugula; the fresh vegetables bulk up the plate without adding significant calories.
Finally, remember portion balance: half of the plate vegetables, one-quarter chicken, one-quarter whole grains. This classic visual rule helps you visualize calories at a glance and keeps meals satisfying yet light.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in chicken?
- There are 170 kcal per 100 g.
- Is chicken lower in calories than beef steak?
- Yes, gram for gram, chicken usually provides fewer calories than a typical beef steak, mainly because it contains less intramuscular fat.
- Does the cooking method change the calories in chicken?
- Absolutely—frying can double the calories by adding oil, whereas grilling or baking adds almost no extra calories.
- Which chicken cut has fewer calories, breast or thigh?
- Skinless breast meat contains noticeably fewer calories than skin-on thigh meat because it is leaner.
- Can I eat chicken every day if I count calories?
- Yes, as long as total daily calories, variety of vegetables, and adequate healthy fats are respected, daily chicken can fit into a balanced diet.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
