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

Chicken Thigh 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 Thigh has 209 calories while Chia Seeds has 486 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Thigh

209 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Thigh

26g

More Fiber

Chia Seeds

34g

Less Sugar

Chicken Thigh

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Thigh
209
Chia Seeds
486
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Thigh
26g
Chia Seeds
17g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Thigh
0g
Chia Seeds
42g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Thigh
11g
Chia Seeds
31g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken ThighChia SeedsDifference
Calories209kcal486kcal-277.0kcal
Protein26g17g+9.0g
Carbohydrates0g42g-42.0g
Fat11g31g-20.0g
Fiber0g34g-34.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium82mg16mg+66.0mg

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

Chia Seeds

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

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Thigh

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Chia Seeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Chicken Thigh

  • Lower in calories (209 vs 486)
  • Higher in protein (26g vs 17g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 42g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Chia Seeds

  • More fiber (34g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (16mg vs 82mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Chia Seeds nutrition →

Chicken Thigh vs Chia Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Chia Seeds is more calorie-dense at 486 calories per 100g compared to 209 for Chicken Thigh, a difference of 277 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Thigh delivers more with 26g 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 Thigh and Chia Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Thigh provides 0g of carbohydrates, 11g 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 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: 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 Thigh or Chia Seeds?

Chia Seeds has more calories with 486 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 209 kcal. That's a difference of 277 calories per 100g serving.

Is Chicken Thigh healthier than Chia Seeds?

Chicken Thigh 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 Thigh and Chia Seeds?

Chicken Thigh has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Chia Seeds with 17g. Chicken Thigh provides 9.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Chicken Thigh is the better choice with only 209 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 Thigh or Chia Seeds have fewer carbs?

Chicken Thigh has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Chia Seeds with 42g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Thigh 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.