How Many Calories in 140g of Chicken Breast?

Chicken breast is one of the most popular lean proteins Many people eat it regularly as part of a healthy diet. But exactly how many calories are in a 140g serving of chicken breast? Let’s find out

Why Chicken Breast?

Other cuts of chicken have more fat and calories than chicken breast. One 140-gram serving of chicken thigh with skin has 209 calories and 13 grams of fat. There are only 154 calories in the same amount of chicken breast. 7g of fat. If you switch to breast meat, you’ll save 55 calories and 11 grams of fat.

Chicken breast is also packed with protein. A 140g serving contains 32g of protein. This helps you feel fuller for longer compared to foods high in carbs. Adding veggie sides boosts nutrition without spiking calories.

These numbers explain why health-conscious folks make chicken breast a staple. It provides ample protein with minimal fat and few calories

Calorie Content of 140g Chicken Breast

According to the USDA, a 140g serving of boneless, skinless chicken breast contains

• 154 calories
• 32g protein
• 1.7g fat
• 0g carbs

This food has a very high protein content, which makes up 289 percent of the calories. Fat provides only 11% of calories. There are no carbs in chicken breast.

To put this in perspective, here are calorie comparisons with other proteins:

• 140g salmon fillet: 208 calories
• 140g sirloin steak: 294 calories
• 140g tofu: 130 calories

Chicken breast has the fewest calories by a wide margin. It also has the most protein per calorie.

Calories Can Vary Slightly

Factors like cooking method and brand can alter calories slightly. For example:

• A 140g serving of Perdue chicken breast has 159 calories.
• Foster Farms chicken breast has 163 calories per 140g.
• Grilling instead of baking may add a trace of fat from oils.

But these differences are minor. About 150 to 165 calories are in a 140g serving.

Chicken Breast Is Nutrient-Dense

In addition to protein, chicken breast contains vitamins and minerals:

• 15mg calcium (1% DV)
• 1mg iron (6% DV)
• 357mg potassium (8% DV)
• 1.7mg vitamin C (2% DV)
• 8mcg vitamin A (1% DV)

The % DV shows the percentage of the recommended daily amount for each nutrient. While not high in any one vitamin or mineral, chicken breast provides useful amounts with few calories.

Tips for Preparing Chicken Breast

To enjoy tasty, juicy chicken breast:

• Pound thicker breasts to an even thickness. This prevents dry spots.
• Brine chicken in saltwater before cooking for added moisture.
• Bake, grill, or pan-fry using a meat thermometer. Cook to 165°F internal temperature.
• Slice across the grain before eating for tenderness.
• Add flavor with herbs, spices, sauces, glazes or marinades.

The Verdict on Calories in Chicken Breast

A 140g serving of chicken breast is an excellent source of protein with only 154 calories and 1.7g fat. It’s one of the leanest protein options. Comparing chicken cuts, breast has 50+ fewer calories than thigh or drumstick.

Each serving of chicken breast has 32g of protein, which is more than beef, fish, or tofu. It also contains several vitamins and minerals.

Calories can vary slightly based on brand and cooking method. But all chicken breast has a similar outstanding nutrition profile. It’s easy to see why fitness buffs and dieters make it a staple.