Chicken Thigh vs Ground Beef: 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 Ground Beef has 250 calories per 100g.
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
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Chicken Thigh | Ground Beef | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 209kcal✓ | 250kcal | -41.0kcal |
| Protein | 26g | 26g | 0.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Fat | 11g✓ | 17g | -6.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sodium | 82mg | 75mg✓ | +7.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Chicken Thigh
Ground Beef
Diet Compatibility
Chicken Thigh
Ground Beef
When to Choose Chicken Thigh
- ✓Lower in calories (209 vs 250)
- ✓Higher in protein (26g vs 26g)
- ✓More fiber (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Less sugar (0g vs 0g)
Common Uses
When to Choose Ground Beef
- ✓Lower sodium (75mg vs 82mg)
Common Uses
Chicken Thigh vs Ground Beef: Nutritional Analysis
Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 209 for Chicken Thigh, a difference of 41 calories. 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 Ground Beef tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Thigh provides 0g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ground Beef contains 0g carbs, 17g fat, and 0g fiber.
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 Ground Beef?
Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 209 kcal. That's a difference of 41 calories per 100g serving.
Is Chicken Thigh healthier than Ground Beef?
Chicken Thigh and Ground Beef 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 Ground Beef?
Chicken Thigh and Ground Beef have the same protein content at 26g per 100g.
Which is better for weight loss, Chicken Thigh or Ground Beef?
For weight loss, Chicken Thigh is the better choice with only 209 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Ground Beef also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Chicken Thigh or Ground Beef have fewer carbs?
Chicken Thigh and Ground Beef 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.