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

Cod vs Chicken Nuggets: 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?

Cod is generally healthier

Cod comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (82 vs 296), more protein (17g vs 15g), less sugar (0g vs 0.4g), less sodium (77mg vs 541mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cod

82 kcal

More Protein

Cod

17g

More Fiber

Chicken Nuggets

1.2g

Less Sugar

Cod

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cod
82
Chicken Nuggets
296
Proteinper 100g
Cod
17g
Chicken Nuggets
15g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cod
0g
Chicken Nuggets
18g
Fatper 100g
Cod
0.7g
Chicken Nuggets
18g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCodChicken NuggetsDifference
Calories82kcal296kcal-214.0kcal
Protein17g15g+2.0g
Carbohydrates0g18g-18.0g
Fat0.7g18g-17.3g
Fiber0g1.2g-1.2g
Sugar0g0.4g-0.4g
Sodium77mg541mg-464.0mg

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 Nuggets

Per 100g:296 calories
Per cup (150g):444 calories
Per serving (85g):252 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cod

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

Chicken Nuggets

High-Protein

When to Choose Cod

  • Lower in calories (82 vs 296)
  • Higher in protein (17g vs 15g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 18g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (77mg vs 541mg)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Cod nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Nuggets

  • More fiber (1.2g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Chicken Nuggets nutrition →

Cod vs Chicken Nuggets: Nutritional Analysis

Chicken Nuggets is more calorie-dense at 296 calories per 100g compared to 82 for Cod, a difference of 214 calories. On the protein front, Cod delivers more with 17g per 100g versus 15g, 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 Nuggets tell different nutritional stories. Cod provides 0g of carbohydrates, 0.7g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Nuggets contains 18g carbs, 18g fat, and 1.2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Chicken Nuggets supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cod contains 0g while Chicken Nuggets has 0.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

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: Cod provides more protein (17g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Chicken Nuggets offers more fiber (1.2g/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 Nuggets?

Chicken Nuggets has more calories with 296 kcal per 100g, compared to Cod with 82 kcal. That's a difference of 214 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cod healthier than Chicken Nuggets?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cod is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cod has 82 calories, 17g 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 Nuggets?

Cod has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Chicken Nuggets with 15g. Cod provides 2.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Cod is the better choice with only 82 calories per 100g compared to 296 calories in Chicken Nuggets. Chicken Nuggets also offers 1.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cod or Chicken Nuggets have fewer carbs?

Cod has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Chicken Nuggets with 18g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cod is the better option with 18.0g 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.