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

Fried Chicken 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Fried Chicken has 246 calories while Cashews has 553 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Fried Chicken

246 kcal

More Protein

Fried Chicken

18g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Fried Chicken

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Fried Chicken
246
Cashews
553
Proteinper 100g
Fried Chicken
18g
Cashews
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Fried Chicken
10g
Cashews
30g
Fatper 100g
Fried Chicken
15g
Cashews
44g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFried ChickenCashewsDifference
Calories246kcal553kcal-307.0kcal
Protein18g18g0.0g
Carbohydrates10g30g-20.0g
Fat15g44g-29.0g
Fiber0.4g3.3g-2.9g
Sugar0.3g5.9g-5.6g
Sodium630mg10mg+620.0mg

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

Cashews

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

Diet Compatibility

Fried Chicken

Low-CarbHigh-Protein

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Fried Chicken

  • Lower in calories (246 vs 553)
  • Higher in protein (18g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (10g vs 30g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Fried Chicken nutrition →

When to Choose Cashews

  • More fiber (3.3g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 630mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

Fried Chicken vs Cashews: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 246 for Fried Chicken, a difference of 307 calories. 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 Cashews tell different nutritional stories. Fried Chicken provides 10g of carbohydrates, 15g of fat, and 0.4g 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: Fried Chicken contains 0.3g 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: 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: 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, Fried Chicken or Cashews?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 246 kcal. That's a difference of 307 calories per 100g serving.

Is Fried Chicken healthier than Cashews?

Fried Chicken and Cashews have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Fried Chicken and Cashews?

Fried Chicken and Cashews have the same protein content at 18g per 100g.

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

For weight loss, Fried Chicken is the better choice with only 246 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 Fried Chicken or Cashews have fewer carbs?

Fried Chicken has fewer carbs with 10g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Fried Chicken is the better option with 20.0g 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.