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

Cod 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 2 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (31g vs 17g), less sodium (74mg vs 77mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cod

82 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Cod

0g

Less Sugar

Cod

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cod
82
Chicken Breast
165
Proteinper 100g
Cod
17g
Chicken Breast
31g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cod
0g
Chicken Breast
0g
Fatper 100g
Cod
0.7g
Chicken Breast
3.6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCodChicken BreastDifference
Calories82kcal165kcal-83.0kcal
Protein17g31g-14.0g
Carbohydrates0g0g0.0g
Fat0.7g3.6g-2.9g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g0g0.0g
Sodium77mg74mg+3.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cod

Per 100g:82 calories
Per cup (150g):123 calories
Per serving (85g):70 calories

Chicken Breast

Per 100g:165 calories
Per cup (150g):248 calories
Per serving (85g):140 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cod

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cod

  • Lower in calories (82 vs 165)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Cod nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Higher in protein (31g vs 17g)
  • Lower sodium (74mg vs 77mg)

Common Uses

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

Cod vs Chicken Breast: Nutritional Analysis

Chicken Breast is more calorie-dense at 165 calories per 100g compared to 82 for Cod, a difference of 83 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g 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 Cod and Chicken Breast tell different nutritional stories. Cod provides 0g of carbohydrates, 0.7g 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: Cod is the lower-calorie choice at 82 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: Cod 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, Cod or Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast has more calories with 165 kcal per 100g, compared to Cod with 82 kcal. That's a difference of 83 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cod healthier than Chicken Breast?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Breast is generally the healthier choice, winning in 2 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 Cod and Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Cod with 17g. Chicken Breast provides 14.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cod or Chicken Breast?

For weight loss, Cod is the better choice with only 82 calories per 100g compared to 165 calories in Chicken Breast. Chicken Breast also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cod or Chicken Breast have fewer carbs?

Cod and Chicken Breast have the same carbohydrate content at 0g per 100g.

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.