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

Fried Chicken vs Bagel: 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?

Fried Chicken is generally healthier

Fried Chicken comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (246 vs 257), more protein (18g vs 10g), less sugar (0.3g vs 6.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Fried Chicken

246 kcal

More Protein

Fried Chicken

18g

More Fiber

Bagel

2.1g

Less Sugar

Fried Chicken

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Fried Chicken
246
Bagel
257
Proteinper 100g
Fried Chicken
18g
Bagel
10g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Fried Chicken
10g
Bagel
50g
Fatper 100g
Fried Chicken
15g
Bagel
1.7g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFried ChickenBagelDifference
Calories246kcal257kcal-11.0kcal
Protein18g10g+8.0g
Carbohydrates10g50g-40.0g
Fat15g1.7g+13.3g
Fiber0.4g2.1g-1.7g
Sugar0.3g6.6g-6.3g
Sodium630mg430mg+200.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Fried Chicken

Per 100g:246 calories
Per cup (150g):369 calories
Per serving (85g):209 calories

Bagel

Per 100g:257 calories
Per cup (150g):386 calories
Per serving (85g):218 calories

Diet Compatibility

Fried Chicken

Low-CarbHigh-Protein

Bagel

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Fried Chicken

  • Lower in calories (246 vs 257)
  • Higher in protein (18g vs 10g)
  • Lower in carbs (10g vs 50g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 6.6g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Fried Chicken nutrition →

When to Choose Bagel

  • More fiber (2.1g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (430mg vs 630mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Bagel nutrition →

Fried Chicken vs Bagel: Nutritional Analysis

Bagel is more calorie-dense at 257 calories per 100g compared to 246 for Fried Chicken, a difference of 11 calories. On the protein front, Fried Chicken delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 10g, 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 Fried Chicken and Bagel tell different nutritional stories. Fried Chicken provides 10g of carbohydrates, 15g of fat, and 0.4g of fiber per 100g, while Bagel contains 50g carbs, 1.7g fat, and 2.1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Bagel supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Fried Chicken contains 0.3g while Bagel has 6.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Fried Chicken is the lower-calorie choice at 246 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Fried Chicken provides more protein (18g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Bagel offers more fiber (2.1g/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, Fried Chicken or Bagel?

Bagel has more calories with 257 kcal per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 246 kcal. That's a difference of 11 calories per 100g serving.

Is Fried Chicken healthier than Bagel?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Fried Chicken is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Fried Chicken has 246 calories, 18g protein, and 0.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Fried Chicken and Bagel?

Fried Chicken has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 10g. Fried Chicken provides 8.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Fried Chicken or Bagel?

For weight loss, Fried Chicken is the better choice with only 246 calories per 100g compared to 257 calories in Bagel. Bagel also offers 2.1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Fried Chicken or Bagel have fewer carbs?

Fried Chicken has fewer carbs with 10g per 100g, compared to Bagel with 50g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Fried Chicken is the better option with 40.0g 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.