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

Flaxseed 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 534), more protein (31g vs 18g), less sugar (0g vs 1.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Flaxseed
534
Chicken Breast
165
Proteinper 100g
Flaxseed
18g
Chicken Breast
31g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Flaxseed
29g
Chicken Breast
0g
Fatper 100g
Flaxseed
42g
Chicken Breast
3.6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFlaxseedChicken BreastDifference
Calories534kcal165kcal+369.0kcal
Protein18g31g-13.0g
Carbohydrates29g0g+29.0g
Fat42g3.6g+38.4g
Fiber27g0g+27.0g
Sugar1.6g0g+1.6g
Sodium30mg74mg-44.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Flaxseed

Per 100g:534 calories
Per cup (150g):801 calories
Per serving (85g):454 calories

Chicken Breast

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

Diet Compatibility

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • More fiber (27g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (30mg vs 74mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 534)
  • Higher in protein (31g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 29g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

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

Flaxseed vs Chicken Breast: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 369 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g 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 Flaxseed and Chicken Breast tell different nutritional stories. Flaxseed provides 29g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 27g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Breast contains 0g carbs, 3.6g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Flaxseed supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Flaxseed contains 1.6g while Chicken Breast has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

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: Flaxseed offers more fiber (27g/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, Flaxseed or Chicken Breast?

Flaxseed has more calories with 534 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 369 calories per 100g serving.

Is Flaxseed 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 Flaxseed and Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 18g. Chicken Breast provides 13.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 534 calories in Flaxseed. Flaxseed also offers 27g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Flaxseed or Chicken Breast have fewer carbs?

Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast is the better option with 29.0g 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.