Ground Beef vs Fried Chicken: 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?
Ground Beef is generally healthier
Ground Beef comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (26g vs 18g), less sugar (0g vs 0.3g), less sodium (75mg vs 630mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Fried Chicken
246 kcal
More Protein
Ground Beef
26g
More Fiber
Fried Chicken
0.4g
Less Sugar
Ground Beef
0g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Ground Beef | Fried Chicken | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250kcal | 246kcal✓ | +4.0kcal |
| Protein | 26g✓ | 18g | +8.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g✓ | 10g | -10.0g |
| Fat | 17g | 15g✓ | +2.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0.4g✓ | -0.4g |
| Sugar | 0g✓ | 0.3g | -0.3g |
| Sodium | 75mg✓ | 630mg | -555.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Ground Beef
Fried Chicken
Diet Compatibility
Ground Beef
Fried Chicken
When to Choose Ground Beef
- ✓Higher in protein (26g vs 18g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0g vs 10g)
- ✓Less sugar (0g vs 0.3g)
- ✓Lower sodium (75mg vs 630mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Fried Chicken
- ✓Lower in calories (246 vs 250)
- ✓More fiber (0.4g vs 0g)
Common Uses
Ground Beef vs Fried Chicken: Nutritional Analysis
Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 246 for Fried Chicken, a difference of 4 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g 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 Ground Beef and Fried Chicken tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Fried Chicken contains 10g carbs, 15g fat, and 0.4g fiber. The higher fiber content in Fried Chicken supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Fried Chicken has 0.3g 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: Ground Beef provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Fried Chicken offers more fiber (0.4g/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 Fried Chicken?
Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 246 kcal. That's a difference of 4 calories per 100g serving.
Is Ground Beef healthier than Fried Chicken?
Based on our nutritional analysis, Ground Beef is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Ground Beef has 250 calories, 26g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.
What is the protein difference between Ground Beef and Fried Chicken?
Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 18g. Ground Beef provides 8.0g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Fried Chicken?
For weight loss, Fried Chicken is the better choice with only 246 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Fried Chicken also offers 0.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Ground Beef or Fried Chicken have fewer carbs?
Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Fried Chicken with 10g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 10.0g fewer carbohydrates.
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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.