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

Chicken Breast vs Chia Seeds: 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Chicken Breast has 165 calories while Chia Seeds has 486 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Chia Seeds

34g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Breast
165
Chia Seeds
486
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Breast
31g
Chia Seeds
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Breast
0g
Chia Seeds
42g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Breast
3.6g
Chia Seeds
31g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken BreastChia SeedsDifference
Calories165kcal486kcal-321.0kcal
Protein31g17g+14.0g
Carbohydrates0g42g-42.0g
Fat3.6g31g-27.4g
Fiber0g34g-34.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium74mg16mg+58.0mg

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

Chia Seeds

Per 100g:486 calories
Per cup (150g):729 calories
Per serving (85g):413 calories

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Chia Seeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 486)
  • Higher in protein (31g vs 17g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 42g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Chia Seeds

  • More fiber (34g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (16mg vs 74mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Chia Seeds nutrition →

Chicken Breast vs Chia Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Chia Seeds is more calorie-dense at 486 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 321 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g per 100g versus 17g, 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 Chia Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Breast provides 0g of carbohydrates, 3.6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Chia Seeds contains 42g carbs, 31g fat, and 34g fiber. The higher fiber content in Chia Seeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety.

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: Chia Seeds offers more fiber (34g/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 Chia Seeds?

Chia Seeds has more calories with 486 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 321 calories per 100g serving.

Is Chicken Breast healthier than Chia Seeds?

Chicken Breast and Chia Seeds have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Chicken Breast and Chia Seeds?

Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Chia Seeds with 17g. Chicken Breast provides 14.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Chicken Breast or Chia Seeds?

For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 486 calories in Chia Seeds. Chia Seeds also offers 34g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Chicken Breast or Chia Seeds have fewer carbs?

Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Chia Seeds with 42g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast is the better option with 42.0g 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.