Chicken leg piece

Meat

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 190 calories, 22.0 grams of protein, 11.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		452.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		26.2 g	33%
	Saturated Fat	7.1 g	35%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		190.5 mg	63%
Sodium		166.7 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrates		0 g	0%
	Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
	Sugars	0 g
protein		52.4 g	104%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		26.2 mg	2%
Iron		3.1 mg	17%
Potassium		523.8 mg	11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly

🍯 Low sugar

🧂 Low sodium

🧂 Low salt

🥩 High protein

🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

Fat: 235 cal (52.9%)

Protein: 209 cal (47.1%)

Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Chicken leg piece

Chicken leg pieces, including the drumstick and thigh, are a flavorful part of the chicken prized in cuisines worldwide, particularly in American, Asian, and Mediterranean dishes. They are a rich source of high-quality protein, vital for muscle repair and growth. Chicken legs provide essential nutrients like niacin (vitamin B3), phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin B6. Typically, the darker meat of chicken legs contains slightly more fat and iron compared to chicken breast, making it more tender and nutrient-dense. A 100g serving of roasted chicken thigh (without skin) offers approximately 209 calories, 26 grams of protein, and 10.9 grams of fat, making it a balanced choice within a varied diet. When skin-on, the calorie and fat content increases. Chicken legs are versatile and suitable for grilling, roasting, or stewing, and they adapt well to diverse seasonings and marinades.

Health Benefits

• High-quality protein content supports muscle repair and maintenance, with around 26 grams of protein per 100g serving.
• Rich in niacin (B3), which supports energy metabolism and cardiovascular health.
• Contains phosphorus, essential for healthy bones and teeth, with about 15% of the daily recommended intake per serving.
• Provides selenium, an antioxidant mineral that supports the immune system and thyroid function.
• Iron content in the darker meat enhances oxygen transport in the blood, crucial for reducing fatigue.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains None (unless processed with allergens like gluten or marinades)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, low-carb diets, paleo diets

Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets

Selection and Storage

Store raw chicken legs in the refrigerator at 32-40°F (0-4°C) and use within 1-2 days, or freeze for up to 9 months. Cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.

Common Questions About Chicken leg piece Nutrition

Is chicken leg piece high in protein?

Yes, chicken leg pieces are an excellent source of protein. A 100-gram serving of cooked chicken leg (without skin) contains approximately 25 grams of protein, which supports muscle development and maintenance.

Can I eat chicken leg piece on a keto diet?

Absolutely, chicken leg pieces are a great fit for the keto diet. They are naturally low in carbohydrates (less than 1 gram in a cooked serving) and provide healthy fats, especially if cooked with the skin intact.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating chicken leg piece?

Chicken leg pieces are rich in protein, B vitamins (like niacin and B6), and minerals such as phosphorus and selenium, which are vital for energy metabolism and immune health. However, consuming chicken with skin can increase saturated fat content, which might be a concern for heart health if eaten in excess.

How many chicken leg pieces should I eat per serving?

A typical serving size is one medium chicken leg piece, approximately 100-150 grams cooked, depending on your dietary needs and goals. For balanced nutrition, pair it with vegetables and healthy grains for a complete meal.

Is chicken leg healthier than chicken breast?

Chicken leg pieces contain slightly more fat and fewer calories (165 kcal in 100 grams cooked, without skin) compared to chicken breast, which is leaner but higher in protein. Chicken legs may be better for those needing extra fats, while breasts suit low-fat diets.

Data Sources & Scientific References