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

Chicken Breast vs Bacon: 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 Breast is generally healthier

Chicken Breast comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (165 vs 541), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 1.2g), less sodium (74mg vs 1717mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Bacon

37g

More Fiber

Chicken Breast

0g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Breast
165
Bacon
541
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Breast
31g
Bacon
37g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Breast
0g
Bacon
1.4g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Breast
3.6g
Bacon
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken BreastBaconDifference
Calories165kcal541kcal-376.0kcal
Protein31g37g-6.0g
Carbohydrates0g1.4g-1.4g
Fat3.6g42g-38.4g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g1.2g-1.2g
Sodium74mg1717mg-1643.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Chicken Breast

Per 100g:165 calories
Per cup (150g):248 calories
Per serving (85g):140 calories

Bacon

Per 100g:541 calories
Per cup (150g):812 calories
Per serving (85g):460 calories

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Bacon

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 541)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 1.4g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower sodium (74mg vs 1717mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Bacon

  • Higher in protein (37g vs 31g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Bacon nutrition →

Chicken Breast vs Bacon: Nutritional Analysis

Bacon is more calorie-dense at 541 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 376 calories. On the protein front, Bacon delivers more with 37g per 100g versus 31g, 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 Chicken Breast and Bacon tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Breast provides 0g of carbohydrates, 3.6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Bacon contains 1.4g carbs, 42g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Chicken Breast contains 0g while Bacon has 1.2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Chicken Breast is the lower-calorie choice at 165 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Bacon provides more protein (37g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Chicken Breast offers more fiber (0g/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, Chicken Breast or Bacon?

Bacon has more calories with 541 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 376 calories per 100g serving.

Is Chicken Breast healthier than Bacon?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Breast is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Chicken Breast has 165 calories, 31g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Chicken Breast and Bacon?

Bacon has more protein with 37g per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 31g. Bacon provides 6.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Chicken Breast or Bacon?

For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 541 calories in Bacon. Bacon also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Chicken Breast or Bacon have fewer carbs?

Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Bacon with 1.4g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast is the better option with 1.4g 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.