Chicken Thigh vs Chicken Breast: 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 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (165 vs 209), more protein (31g vs 26g), less sodium (74mg vs 82mg)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 Thigh
0g
Less Sugar
Chicken Thigh
0g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Chicken Thigh | Chicken Breast | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 209kcal | 165kcal✓ | +44.0kcal |
| Protein | 26g | 31g✓ | -5.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Fat | 11g | 3.6g✓ | +7.4g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sodium | 82mg | 74mg✓ | +8.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Chicken Thigh
Chicken Breast
Diet Compatibility
Chicken Thigh
Chicken Breast
When to Choose Chicken Thigh
- ✓More fiber (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Less sugar (0g vs 0g)
Common Uses
When to Choose Chicken Breast
- ✓Lower in calories (165 vs 209)
- ✓Higher in protein (31g vs 26g)
- ✓Lower sodium (74mg vs 82mg)
Common Uses
Chicken Thigh vs Chicken Breast: Nutritional Analysis
Chicken Thigh is more calorie-dense at 209 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 44 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g per 100g versus 26g, 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 Chicken Breast tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Thigh provides 0g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Breast contains 0g carbs, 3.6g fat, and 0g fiber.
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 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 Chicken Breast?
Chicken Thigh has more calories with 209 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 44 calories per 100g serving.
Is Chicken Thigh healthier than Chicken Breast?
Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Breast is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 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 Thigh and Chicken Breast?
Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 26g. Chicken Breast provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Chicken Thigh or Chicken Breast?
For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 209 calories in Chicken Thigh. Chicken Breast also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Chicken Thigh or Chicken Breast have fewer carbs?
Chicken Thigh and Chicken Breast have the same carbohydrate content at 0g per 100g.
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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.