1 serving (150 grams) contains 300 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 2.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
480 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.0 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.0 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 128.0 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 960 mg | 41% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 3.2 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| protein | 40.0 g | 80% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 64.0 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 480 mg | 10% | |
* 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 Pesto chicken
Pesto chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast or thighs with basil pesto, a sauce originating from Genoa, Italy. This dish is popular in Italian cuisine and often served over pasta, with a side of vegetables, or as part of salads or wraps. Nutritionally, pesto chicken offers a high-protein option (around 30 grams of protein per 3-ounce cooked portion of chicken) and healthy fats from the olive oil and pine nuts in the pesto. It also contains vitamins A and K from the basil, as well as some calcium and vitamin E.
Health Benefits
- High protein content supports muscle repair and growth, providing approximately 30 grams of protein per 3-ounce portion of chicken.
- The olive oil in pesto provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
- Basil is a good source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, with about 98% of the daily recommended value per half-cup of pesto.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture and flavor.
Common Questions About Pesto chicken Nutrition
How much protein and how many calories are in pesto chicken?
Pesto chicken is a high-protein dish, with a typical 4-ounce serving of chicken breast providing about 26-28 grams of protein. Depending on the amount and type of pesto used, the dish can range from 280-350 calories per serving due to the oil and nuts in the pesto.
Is pesto chicken suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
Yes, pesto chicken is generally keto-friendly as it is low in carbohydrates; most pesto sauces contain just 1-3 grams of net carbs per serving. When paired with non-starchy vegetables or served on its own, it fits well within the macronutrient requirements of a keto or low-carb diet.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating pesto chicken?
Pesto chicken offers lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the olive oil, nuts, and cheese in the pesto. However, it can be high in sodium depending on the pesto brand or recipe. People watching their salt intake should opt for a homemade or low-sodium pesto.
What is the recommended portion size for pesto chicken?
A standard serving size of pesto chicken is typically 4-6 ounces of chicken breast, which provides sufficient protein for a meal. Pair it with a side of vegetables or a light salad to create a well-balanced plate.
How does pesto chicken compare to grilled chicken without pesto?
Pesto chicken has a richer flavor and higher fat content compared to plain grilled chicken due to the olive oil, nuts, and cheese in the pesto. While plain chicken has around 120-140 calories per 4-ounce serving, adding pesto increases the calorie count to approximately 280-350, but it also adds healthy fats and some micronutrients like vitamin E and zinc.
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.
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.
