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

Chicken Wings vs Cashews: 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 Wings is generally healthier

Chicken Wings comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (203 vs 553), more protein (30g vs 18g), less sugar (0g vs 5.9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Wings

203 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Wings

30g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Chicken Wings

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Chicken Wings
203
Cashews
553
Proteinper 100g
Chicken Wings
30g
Cashews
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Chicken Wings
0g
Cashews
30g
Fatper 100g
Chicken Wings
8.1g
Cashews
44g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientChicken WingsCashewsDifference
Calories203kcal553kcal-350.0kcal
Protein30g18g+12.0g
Carbohydrates0g30g-30.0g
Fat8.1g44g-35.9g
Fiber0g3.3g-3.3g
Sugar0g5.9g-5.9g
Sodium82mg10mg+72.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Chicken Wings

Per 100g:203 calories
Per cup (150g):305 calories
Per serving (85g):173 calories

Cashews

Per 100g:553 calories
Per cup (150g):830 calories
Per serving (85g):470 calories

Diet Compatibility

Chicken Wings

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Chicken Wings

  • Lower in calories (203 vs 553)
  • Higher in protein (30g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 30g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

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

When to Choose Cashews

  • More fiber (3.3g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 82mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

Chicken Wings vs Cashews: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 203 for Chicken Wings, a difference of 350 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Wings delivers more with 30g per 100g versus 18g, 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 Wings and Cashews tell different nutritional stories. Chicken Wings provides 0g of carbohydrates, 8.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cashews contains 30g carbs, 44g fat, and 3.3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cashews supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Chicken Wings contains 0g while Cashews has 5.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Chicken Wings is the lower-calorie choice at 203 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Chicken Wings provides more protein (30g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cashews offers more fiber (3.3g/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 Wings or Cashews?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Wings with 203 kcal. That's a difference of 350 calories per 100g serving.

Is Chicken Wings healthier than Cashews?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Wings is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Chicken Wings has 203 calories, 30g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Chicken Wings and Cashews?

Chicken Wings has more protein with 30g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 18g. Chicken Wings provides 12.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Chicken Wings or Cashews?

For weight loss, Chicken Wings is the better choice with only 203 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Cashews also offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Chicken Wings or Cashews have fewer carbs?

Chicken Wings has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Wings is the better option with 30.0g 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.