Chicken Nutrition Facts: Calories, Macros & Health Benefits
Summary: 100g of chicken contains 239 calories, 27.3g protein, 0g carbs, and 13.6g fat. Chicken is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutrition Facts — per 100g
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 239 kcal | 12% |
| Protein | 27.3g | 55% |
| Carbohydrates | 0.00g | 0% |
| Total Fat | 13.6g | 17% |
| Sodium | 82.0mg | 4% |
Is Chicken Good for You?
Yes, chicken is an excellent protein source that supports muscle maintenance and overall health. A 100g serving delivers 27.3g of protein (55% Daily Value) with just 82mg sodium (4% Daily Value), making it both muscle-friendly and heart-conscious. It is also relatively lean compared to other meats, providing these benefits at only 239 calories per serving.
Key Health Benefits of Chicken
Exceptional Protein Content — With 27.3g of protein per 100g, chicken supplies more than half your daily protein needs in a single serving. This makes it ideal for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining lean body mass.
Low Sodium Profile — Containing just 82mg of sodium (4% Daily Value), chicken is a heart-healthy choice that supports healthy blood pressure when prepared without added salt. It is particularly valuable for those monitoring sodium intake.
Moderate Fat with Balanced Calories — At 13.6g of total fat and 239 calories per 100g serving, chicken delivers satisfying nutrition without excess energy. It is calorie-efficient for those managing weight while maintaining nutrient density.
Supports Active Lifestyles — The high protein-to-calorie ratio makes chicken a preferred choice for athletes and fitness-focused individuals. It is an efficient way to fuel muscle recovery after exercise.
Versatile Nutrient Density — Chicken provides B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus alongside its protein benefits. It is one of the most nutrient-rich options in the poultry category.
How Does Chicken Compare?
Chicken stands out against beef and pork by delivering comparable protein (27.3g per 100g) at a lower calorie count and significantly less fat. While it is leaner than many red meat alternatives, it matches their protein density without the higher saturated fat burden. This balance makes chicken a smart choice for those seeking protein efficiency without excess calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories is in chicken?
Chicken contains 239 calories per 100g serving, which represents 12% of a standard 2,000-calorie daily diet. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on whether the chicken is skin-on or skin-off, and the specific cut.
Is chicken good for weight loss?
Yes, chicken is excellent for weight loss because it is high in protein (27.3g per 100g) which promotes satiety and helps preserve muscle mass while reducing calories. It is also relatively low in calories at 239 per 100g, making it easy to incorporate into calorie-controlled meal plans.
How much protein does chicken have?
Chicken provides 27.3g of protein per 100g serving, delivering 55% of the Daily Value in a single portion. It is one of the most protein-dense foods available, making it ideal for muscle building and recovery.
Is chicken keto-friendly?
Yes, chicken is highly keto-friendly because it is protein-rich with minimal carbohydrates and moderate fat at 13.6g per 100g. It is a staple protein source in ketogenic diets due to its low carb content and satiating properties.
How long can you store cooked chicken in the refrigerator?
Cooked chicken can safely be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It is important to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating and to reheat it to 165°F before consuming.
How to Track Chicken Nutrition with Gram
The Gram app makes logging chicken effortless—simply scan the package with your phone’s camera or search by name to instantly see the complete nutrient breakdown including protein, fat, sodium, and more. Our AI food scanning technology recognizes chicken in photos, so you can capture what you’re eating and automatically track macros without manual entry. Whether you’re portioning out 100g or tracking a full chicken breast, Gram gives you precise nutrition data backed by USDA standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories is in chicken?
Chicken contains 239 calories per 100g serving, which represents 12% of a standard 2,000-calorie daily diet. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on whether the chicken is skin-on or skin-off, and the specific cut.
Is chicken good for weight loss?
Yes, chicken is excellent for weight loss because it is high in protein (27.3g per 100g) which promotes satiety and helps preserve muscle mass while reducing calories. It is also relatively low in calories at 239 per 100g, making it easy to incorporate into calorie-controlled meal plans.
How much protein does chicken have?
Chicken provides 27.3g of protein per 100g serving, delivering 55% of the Daily Value in a single portion. It is one of the most protein-dense foods available, making it ideal for muscle building and recovery.
Is chicken keto-friendly?
Yes, chicken is highly keto-friendly because it is protein-rich with minimal carbohydrates and moderate fat at 13.6g per 100g. It is a staple protein source in ketogenic diets due to its low carb content and satiating properties.
How long can you store cooked chicken in the refrigerator?
Cooked chicken can safely be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It is important to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating and to reheat it to 165°F before consuming.
Track your nutrition with Gram
Snap a photo of your meal and let AI do the rest. Track calories, macros, and micronutrients effortlessly.
Nutrition data sourced from USDA FoodData Central. Track chicken and thousands of other foods with the Gram app.