Calorie Chart / Meat & Eggs / Chicken breast
How Many Calories Are in Chicken breast?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of chicken breast
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 155 kcal | Proteins 32 g | Lipids 2.3 g | Carbohydrates 2.3 g |
| 8% | 43% | 3% | 1% |
Health benefits of chicken breast
Chicken breast - 100g
Calories 103 kcal
Proteins 21 g
Lipids 1.5 g
Carbohydrates 1.5 g
Chicken breast is renowned for its very high protein density (around 21 g per 100 g) while remaining modest in calories, which makes it a staple for both weight-loss and muscle-gain plans. With only 103 kcal per 100 g, it is considered a low-to-moderate-calorie meat compared with fattier cuts. Talking about calories helps users immediately see that they obtain ample amino acids without a dramatic rise in calories, a key point for balanced menus. In addition to its favorable calorie profile, chicken breast provides significant amounts of vitamin B3 (niacin) and vitamin B6, both essential for energy metabolism and reduction of fatigue.
The mineral profile is equally interesting: selenium contributes to normal immune function, while phosphorus supports bone health. Because calories are not the sole criterion of nutritional quality, it is helpful to note that chicken breast contains all essential amino acids and very little saturated fat (1.5 g lipids/100 g). Historically, chicken became a popular lean meat after World War II when intensive farming reduced prices; its current reputation as a "diet food" is therefore linked as much to calories as to cultural habits. Finally, being almost carbohydrate-free (1.5 g), it fits well into low-carb strategies where calories from carbs are deliberately limited.
Tips for incorporating chicken breast into a balanced diet
Thanks to its low-calorie content, chicken breast can serve as the protein base of numerous balanced plates. For a light lunch, grill a fillet with herbs and pair it with steamed broccoli and a spoonful of brown rice; the vegetables add fiber without many calories, while slow carbohydrates from rice provide lasting energy. In a power bowl, combine diced chicken breast, quinoa, roasted bell pepper, and a yogurt-mint dressing: the whole dish stays moderate in calories yet rich in textures. If you are looking for healthy fats without increasing calories, top a salad of shredded chicken breast with sliced avocado; the monounsaturated fats increase satiety so you end up consuming fewer calories overall.
Classic recipes also adapt easily: think of a quick stir-fry with ginger, soy sauce, and julienned carrot, or a homemade tandoori spice rub inspired by tandoori chicken but using plain yogurt instead of cream to keep calories in check. Avoid breading or deep-frying, which multiplies calories; opt for baking, poaching, or grilling to preserve flavor and control calories. Marinating the meat in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes keeps it moist, eliminating the need for calorie-rich sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in chicken breast?
- There are 103 kcal per 100 g of raw, skinless chicken breast.
- Is chicken breast good for weight loss because of its calories?
- Yes. Its low-calorie density combined with high protein promotes satiety and preserves muscle mass during a calorie deficit.
- Do calories change after cooking chicken breast?
- Water loss during cooking concentrates nutrients, so calories per 100 g of cooked meat are slightly higher (roughly 150 kcal), even though total calories in the portion remain the same.
- Chicken breast vs. chicken thigh – which has fewer calories?
- Skinless chicken thigh provides about 140-150 kcal/100 g, so chicken breast saves roughly 40 calories per 100 g.
- What is the best cooking method to keep calories low?
- Grilling, baking on parchment, or poaching adds virtually no extra calories, unlike frying in oil or adding creamy sauces.
Similar foods
Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
