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

Chicken Thigh vs Cheeseburger: 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 280), more protein (26g vs 15g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0g vs 6g), less sodium (82mg vs 520mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Thigh

209 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Thigh

26g

More Fiber

Chicken Thigh

0g

Less Sugar

Chicken Thigh

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Thigh
209
Cheeseburger
280
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Thigh
26g
Cheeseburger
15g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Thigh
0g
Cheeseburger
22g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Thigh
11g
Cheeseburger
14g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken ThighCheeseburgerDifference
Calories209kcal280kcal-71.0kcal
Protein26g15g+11.0g
Carbohydrates0g22g-22.0g
Fat11g14g-3.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g6g-6.0g
Sodium82mg520mg-438.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Chicken Thigh

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

Cheeseburger

Per 100g:280 calories
Per cup (150g):420 calories
Per serving (85g):238 calories

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Thigh

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Cheeseburger

High-Protein

When to Choose Chicken Thigh

  • Lower in calories (209 vs 280)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 15g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 22g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 6g)
  • Lower sodium (82mg vs 520mg)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Cheeseburger

    Common Uses

    Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
    View full Cheeseburger nutrition →

    Chicken Thigh vs Cheeseburger: Nutritional Analysis

    Cheeseburger is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 209 for Chicken Thigh, a difference of 71 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Thigh delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 15g, 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 Thigh and Cheeseburger tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Thigh provides 0g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cheeseburger contains 22g carbs, 14g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Chicken Thigh contains 0g while Cheeseburger has 6g 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: Chicken Thigh 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 Thigh or Cheeseburger?

    Cheeseburger has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 209 kcal. That's a difference of 71 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Chicken Thigh healthier than Cheeseburger?

    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 Chicken Thigh and Cheeseburger?

    Chicken Thigh has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Cheeseburger with 15g. Chicken Thigh provides 11.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

    For weight loss, Chicken Thigh is the better choice with only 209 calories per 100g compared to 280 calories in Cheeseburger. Cheeseburger also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Chicken Thigh or Cheeseburger have fewer carbs?

    Chicken Thigh has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cheeseburger with 22g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Thigh is the better option with 22.0g 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.