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

Chicken Breast vs Cheese: 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 402), more protein (31g vs 23g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 0.7g), less sodium (74mg vs 714mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Chicken Breast

0g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Breast
165
Cheese
402
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Breast
31g
Cheese
23g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Breast
0g
Cheese
3.4g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Breast
3.6g
Cheese
33g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken BreastCheeseDifference
Calories165kcal402kcal-237.0kcal
Protein31g23g+8.0g
Carbohydrates0g3.4g-3.4g
Fat3.6g33g-29.4g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0.7g-0.7g
Sodium74mg714mg-640.0mg

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

Cheese

Per 100g:402 calories
Per cup (150g):603 calories
Per serving (85g):342 calories

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 402)
  • Higher in protein (31g vs 23g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 3.4g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.7g)
  • Lower sodium (74mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Cheese

    Common Uses

    BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
    View full Cheese nutrition →

    Chicken Breast vs Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

    Cheese is more calorie-dense at 402 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 237 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g per 100g versus 23g, 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 Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Breast provides 0g of carbohydrates, 3.6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cheese contains 3.4g carbs, 33g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Chicken Breast contains 0g while Cheese has 0.7g 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: 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 Cheese?

    Cheese has more calories with 402 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 237 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Chicken Breast healthier than Cheese?

    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 Cheese?

    Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Cheese with 23g. Chicken Breast provides 8.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

    For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 402 calories in Cheese. Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Chicken Breast or Cheese have fewer carbs?

    Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cheese with 3.4g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast is the better option with 3.4g 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.