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

Fried Chicken vs Walnuts: 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 654), more protein (18g vs 9g), less sugar (0.3g vs 2.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Fried Chicken

246 kcal

More Protein

Fried Chicken

18g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Fried Chicken

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Fried Chicken
246
Walnuts
654
Proteinper 100g
Fried Chicken
18g
Walnuts
9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Fried Chicken
10g
Walnuts
14g
Fatper 100g
Fried Chicken
15g
Walnuts
65g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFried ChickenWalnutsDifference
Calories246kcal654kcal-408.0kcal
Protein18g9g+9.0g
Carbohydrates10g14g-4.0g
Fat15g65g-50.0g
Fiber0.4g6.7g-6.3g
Sugar0.3g2.6g-2.3g
Sodium630mg2mg+628.0mg

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

Walnuts

Per 100g:654 calories
Per cup (150g):981 calories
Per serving (85g):556 calories

Diet Compatibility

Fried Chicken

Low-CarbHigh-Protein

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Fried Chicken

  • Lower in calories (246 vs 654)
  • Higher in protein (18g vs 9g)
  • Lower in carbs (10g vs 14g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Fried Chicken nutrition →

When to Choose Walnuts

  • More fiber (6.7g vs 0.4g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 630mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

Fried Chicken vs Walnuts: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 246 for Fried Chicken, a difference of 408 calories. On the protein front, Fried Chicken delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 9g, 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 Walnuts tell different nutritional stories. Fried Chicken provides 10g of carbohydrates, 15g of fat, and 0.4g of fiber per 100g, while Walnuts contains 14g carbs, 65g fat, and 6.7g fiber. The higher fiber content in Walnuts 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 Walnuts has 2.6g 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: Walnuts offers more fiber (6.7g/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 Walnuts?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 246 kcal. That's a difference of 408 calories per 100g serving.

Is Fried Chicken healthier than Walnuts?

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 Walnuts?

Fried Chicken has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 9g. Fried Chicken provides 9.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Fried Chicken is the better choice with only 246 calories per 100g compared to 654 calories in Walnuts. Walnuts also offers 6.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Fried Chicken or Walnuts have fewer carbs?

Fried Chicken has fewer carbs with 10g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 14g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Fried Chicken is the better option with 4.0g 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.