Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Bagel vs Chicken Thigh: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Chicken Thigh is generally healthier

Chicken Thigh comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (209 vs 257), more protein (26g vs 10g), less sugar (0g vs 6.6g), less sodium (82mg vs 430mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Thigh

209 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Thigh

26g

More Fiber

Bagel

2.1g

Less Sugar

Chicken Thigh

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Bagel
257
Chicken Thigh
209
Proteinper 100g
Bagel
10g
Chicken Thigh
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Bagel
50g
Chicken Thigh
0g
Fatper 100g
Bagel
1.7g
Chicken Thigh
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientBagelChicken ThighDifference
Calories257kcal209kcal+48.0kcal
Protein10g26g-16.0g
Carbohydrates50g0g+50.0g
Fat1.7g11g-9.3g
Fiber2.1g0g+2.1g
Sugar6.6g0g+6.6g
Sodium430mg82mg+348.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Bagel

Per 100g:257 calories
Per cup (150g):386 calories
Per serving (85g):218 calories

Chicken Thigh

Per 100g:209 calories
Per cup (150g):314 calories
Per serving (85g):178 calories

Diet Compatibility

Bagel

VeganVegetarian

Chicken Thigh

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Bagel

  • More fiber (2.1g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Bagel nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Thigh

  • Lower in calories (209 vs 257)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 10g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 50g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6.6g)
  • Lower sodium (82mg vs 430mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Chicken Thigh nutrition →

Bagel vs Chicken Thigh: Nutritional Analysis

Bagel is more calorie-dense at 257 calories per 100g compared to 209 for Chicken Thigh, a difference of 48 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Thigh delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 10g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Bagel and Chicken Thigh tell different nutritional stories. Bagel provides 50g of carbohydrates, 1.7g of fat, and 2.1g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Thigh contains 0g carbs, 11g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Bagel supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Bagel contains 6.6g while Chicken Thigh has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Chicken Thigh is the lower-calorie choice at 209 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Chicken Thigh provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Bagel offers more fiber (2.1g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Bagel or Chicken Thigh?

Bagel has more calories with 257 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 209 kcal. That's a difference of 48 calories per 100g serving.

Is Bagel healthier than Chicken Thigh?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Thigh is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Chicken Thigh has 209 calories, 26g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Bagel and Chicken Thigh?

Chicken Thigh has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 10g. Chicken Thigh provides 16.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Bagel or Chicken Thigh?

For weight loss, Chicken Thigh is the better choice with only 209 calories per 100g compared to 257 calories in Bagel. Bagel also offers 2.1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Bagel or Chicken Thigh have fewer carbs?

Chicken Thigh has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 50g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Thigh is the better option with 50.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.