Ground Beef vs Chicken Thigh: 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. Ground Beef has 250 calories while Chicken Thigh has 209 calories per 100g.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Chicken Thigh
209 kcal
More Protein
Ground Beef
26g
More Fiber
Ground Beef
0g
Less Sugar
Ground Beef
0g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Ground Beef | Chicken Thigh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250kcal | 209kcal✓ | +41.0kcal |
| Protein | 26g | 26g | 0.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Fat | 17g | 11g✓ | +6.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sodium | 75mg✓ | 82mg | -7.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Ground Beef
Chicken Thigh
Diet Compatibility
Ground Beef
Chicken Thigh
When to Choose Ground Beef
- ✓Higher in protein (26g vs 26g)
- ✓More fiber (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Less sugar (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower sodium (75mg vs 82mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Chicken Thigh
- ✓Lower in calories (209 vs 250)
Common Uses
Ground Beef vs Chicken Thigh: Nutritional Analysis
Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 209 for Chicken Thigh, a difference of 41 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 Ground Beef and Chicken Thigh tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Thigh contains 0g carbs, 11g fat, and 0g fiber.
Key Takeaways
- For weight management: Chicken Thigh is the lower-calorie choice at 209 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
- For muscle building: Ground Beef provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Ground Beef offers more fiber (0g/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, Ground Beef or Chicken Thigh?
Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Thigh with 209 kcal. That's a difference of 41 calories per 100g serving.
Is Ground Beef healthier than Chicken Thigh?
Ground Beef and Chicken Thigh 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 Ground Beef and Chicken Thigh?
Ground Beef and Chicken Thigh have the same protein content at 26g per 100g.
Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Chicken Thigh?
For weight loss, Chicken Thigh is the better choice with only 209 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Chicken Thigh also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Ground Beef or Chicken Thigh have fewer carbs?
Ground Beef and Chicken Thigh have the same carbohydrate content at 0g per 100g.
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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.