1 serving (170 grams) contains 296 calories, 12.5 grams of protein, 15.4 grams of fat, and 26.9 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
295.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.4 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 34 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 804.1 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.9 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 14% | |
| Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| protein | 12.5 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 20.4 mcg | 101% | |
| Calcium | 127.5 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 258.4 mg | 5% | |
* 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
Source of Calories
About Chicken tamale
Chicken tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made by wrapping masa dough around seasoned chicken and steaming or baking it inside a corn husk. Tamales have roots in ancient Mesoamerican cultures, including the Maya and Aztec civilizations, where they were a portable and nourishing food for workers and warriors. Chicken, as the main protein, contributes to the dish’s satisfying flavor and nutritional value. A typical chicken tamale provides lean protein, complex carbohydrates from the masa, and micronutrients like niacin and selenium from the chicken. While the dish can vary by region and preparation, chicken tamales are generally nutrient-dense but moderate in calories and fat, making them a balanced choice for a hearty meal.
Health Benefits
- Rich in lean protein from chicken, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Provides selenium, an antioxidant that helps maintain thyroid function and immune health.
- Offers niacin (vitamin B3), which supports energy metabolism and skin health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Chicken tamales should be kept in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat steam or microwave for best texture.
Common Questions About Chicken tamale Nutrition
How much protein and calories are in a chicken tamale?
One medium chicken tamale typically contains around 230-300 calories and provides approximately 10-12 grams of protein. It also contains some carbohydrates and fats due to the masa dough and filling, but these values may vary depending on the recipe.
Is a chicken tamale compatible with a keto or low-carb diet?
Chicken tamales are generally not keto or low-carb friendly because the masa dough is made from corn, which is high in carbs. A traditional tamale contains around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making it unsuitable for strict keto diets.
Are there any health benefits or concerns with eating chicken tamales?
Chicken tamales provide protein from the chicken and some vitamins and minerals from the masa dough, such as iron and magnesium. However, they can be high in sodium and saturated fats, especially if prepared with lard or heavily salted fillings, so moderation is recommended.
What is the recommended serving size for chicken tamales?
A typical serving size is one 4-5 ounce chicken tamale. Depending on your nutritional goals and energy needs, one tamale can be a satisfying portion alongside a light salad or vegetables to balance the meal.
How do chicken tamales compare to pork tamales in terms of nutrition?
Chicken tamales tend to be lower in fat and calories compared to pork tamales, as chicken is leaner than pork. Pork tamales can contain 50-70 more calories and several grams more saturated fat, depending on the recipe. Both types provide essential nutrients, but chicken might be a better choice for those watching fat intake.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Chicken tamale DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
