Fried chicken leg

Fried chicken leg

Dinner

Item Rating: 57/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 288 calories, 17.8 grams of protein, 18.8 grams of fat, and 12.1 grams of carbohydrates.

Log this food in SnapCalorie

★★★★★ 4.8/5.0 (2,000+ reviews)
Get your calorie requirement
Log your nutrition in seconds
Get a personalized nutrition plan
SnapCalorie App Screenshot
388.8
calories
24.0
protein
16.3
carbohydrates
25.4
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (135g)
Calories
388.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 25.4 g 32%
Saturated Fat 5.8 g 29%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.6 g
Cholesterol 122.8 mg 40%
Sodium 842.4 mg 36%
Total Carbohydrates 16.3 g 5%
Dietary Fiber 0.8 g 2%
Sugars 0.1 g
protein 24.0 g 48%
Vitamin D 5.4 mcg 27%
Calcium 36.5 mg 2%
Iron 1.7 mg 9%
Potassium 287.6 mg 6%

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

  • USDA FoodData - Fried chicken leg Data
    U.S. Department of Agriculture
    Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
  • Food Attributes

    🍯 Low sugar
    🧈 High saturated fat
    🥩 High protein

    Source of Calories

    16.7%
    24.6%
    58.6%
    Fat: 228 cal (58.6%)
    Protein: 96 cal (24.6%)
    Carbs: 65 cal (16.7%)

    About Fried chicken leg

    Fried chicken leg is a popular dish across diverse cuisines, though its origins stem from Southern American cooking traditions that combine breaded or battered chicken with deep frying. It is enjoyed worldwide for its crispy outer texture and juicy interior. A typical fried chicken leg provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair, but is also high in calories and fats due to the frying process. Depending on the preparation, it may also contain carbohydrates from the breading. A medium-sized fried chicken leg (about 150 grams) delivers approximately 250-300 calories, 20 grams of protein, 15-20 grams of fat, and moderate amounts of sodium, depending on seasoning and coating used.

    Health Benefits

    • Rich in protein, with approximately 20 grams per serving, supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • Provides niacin (vitamin B3), which aids in energy production from food and supports healthy skin.
    • Supplies phosphorus, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth.

    Dietary Considerations

    Allergens: Contains wheat (if breaded), eggs (if used in batter), milk (if dairy-based coatings are used)
    Suitable for: High-protein diets, if consumed in moderation
    Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets, low-fat diets, gluten-free diets (if breaded with wheat flour)

    Selection and Storage

    Store cooked fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) in an oven to restore crispness.

    Common Questions About Fried chicken leg Nutrition

    How much protein and calories are in a fried chicken leg?

    A single medium fried chicken leg (about 150 grams) typically contains 20-25 grams of protein and around 250-300 calories. The exact values depend on the preparation method and breading used.

    Is fried chicken leg suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

    Fried chicken can be keto-friendly only if the breading is low in carbohydrates, such as being made with almond or coconut flour. Traditional fried chicken with regular flour or breadcrumbs is not suitable due to the high carb content in the coating.

    What are the health benefits and concerns of eating fried chicken legs?

    Fried chicken legs are a good source of protein, B vitamins (like niacin), and selenium. However, they are high in saturated fats and sodium when deep-fried, which may increase heart disease risk if consumed frequently. Opting for air-fried or oven-baked options can reduce unhealthy fats.

    How many fried chicken legs should I eat in one serving?

    For most adults, one to two medium-sized fried chicken legs (approximately 300 grams in total) provide a reasonable portion size. Pair it with non-starchy vegetables to balance the meal and avoid excess calories.

    How does fried chicken leg compare to grilled chicken leg nutritionally?

    A grilled chicken leg is significantly lower in fat and calories than a fried one, with around 180 calories and 10 grams of fat compared to up to 300 calories and 20 grams of fat in fried versions. Grilling or baking is a healthier cooking method that retains protein while reducing added fats.

    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.

    1. USDA FoodData - Fried chicken leg Data
      U.S. Department of Agriculture
      Official 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.