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

Ham vs Chicken Sandwich: 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?

Ham is generally healthier

Ham comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (145 vs 280), more protein (21g vs 16g), less sugar (1.5g vs 4g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ham

145 kcal

More Protein

Ham

21g

More Fiber

Chicken Sandwich

1g

Less Sugar

Ham

1.5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ham
145
Chicken Sandwich
280
Proteinper 100g
Ham
21g
Chicken Sandwich
16g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ham
1.5g
Chicken Sandwich
28g
Fatper 100g
Ham
6g
Chicken Sandwich
12g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHamChicken SandwichDifference
Calories145kcal280kcal-135.0kcal
Protein21g16g+5.0g
Carbohydrates1.5g28g-26.5g
Fat6g12g-6.0g
Fiber0g1g-1.0g
Sugar1.5g4g-2.5g
Sodium1203mg590mg+613.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Ham

Per 100g:145 calories
Per cup (150g):218 calories
Per serving (85g):123 calories

Chicken Sandwich

Per 100g:280 calories
Per cup (150g):420 calories
Per serving (85g):238 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ham

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleo

Chicken Sandwich

High-Protein

When to Choose Ham

  • Lower in calories (145 vs 280)
  • Higher in protein (21g vs 16g)
  • Lower in carbs (1.5g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (1.5g vs 4g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ham nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Sandwich

  • More fiber (1g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (590mg vs 1203mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Chicken Sandwich nutrition →

Ham vs Chicken Sandwich: Nutritional Analysis

Chicken Sandwich is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 145 for Ham, a difference of 135 calories. On the protein front, Ham delivers more with 21g per 100g versus 16g, 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 Ham and Chicken Sandwich tell different nutritional stories. Ham provides 1.5g of carbohydrates, 6g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Sandwich contains 28g carbs, 12g fat, and 1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Chicken Sandwich supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Ham contains 1.5g while Chicken Sandwich has 4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ham is the lower-calorie choice at 145 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Ham provides more protein (21g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Chicken Sandwich offers more fiber (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, Ham or Chicken Sandwich?

Chicken Sandwich has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Ham with 145 kcal. That's a difference of 135 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ham healthier than Chicken Sandwich?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Ham is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Ham has 145 calories, 21g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Ham and Chicken Sandwich?

Ham has more protein with 21g per 100g, compared to Chicken Sandwich with 16g. Ham provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ham or Chicken Sandwich?

For weight loss, Ham is the better choice with only 145 calories per 100g compared to 280 calories in Chicken Sandwich. Chicken Sandwich also offers 1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ham or Chicken Sandwich have fewer carbs?

Ham has fewer carbs with 1.5g per 100g, compared to Chicken Sandwich with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ham is the better option with 26.5g 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.