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

Chicken Breast vs Bagel: 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (165 vs 257), more protein (31g vs 10g), less sugar (0g vs 6.6g), less sodium (74mg vs 430mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Bagel

2.1g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Breast
165
Bagel
257
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Breast
31g
Bagel
10g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Breast
0g
Bagel
50g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Breast
3.6g
Bagel
1.7g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken BreastBagelDifference
Calories165kcal257kcal-92.0kcal
Protein31g10g+21.0g
Carbohydrates0g50g-50.0g
Fat3.6g1.7g+1.9g
Fiber0g2.1g-2.1g
Sugar0g6.6g-6.6g
Sodium74mg430mg-356.0mg

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

Bagel

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

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Bagel

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 257)
  • Higher in protein (31g vs 10g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 50g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6.6g)
  • Lower sodium (74mg vs 430mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Bagel

  • More fiber (2.1g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Bagel nutrition →

Chicken Breast vs Bagel: Nutritional Analysis

Bagel is more calorie-dense at 257 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 92 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g 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 Chicken Breast and Bagel tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Breast provides 0g of carbohydrates, 3.6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Bagel contains 50g carbs, 1.7g fat, and 2.1g 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: Chicken Breast contains 0g while Bagel has 6.6g 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: Chicken Breast provides more protein (31g/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, Chicken Breast or Bagel?

Bagel has more calories with 257 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 92 calories per 100g serving.

Is Chicken Breast healthier than Bagel?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Breast is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Bagel?

Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 10g. Chicken Breast provides 21.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 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 Chicken Breast or Bagel have fewer carbs?

Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 50g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast 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.