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

Hamburger 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?

Hamburger is generally healthier

Hamburger comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (215 vs 280), more protein (17g vs 16g), less sugar (3g vs 4g), less sodium (404mg vs 590mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Hamburger

215 kcal

More Protein

Hamburger

17g

More Fiber

Chicken Sandwich

1g

Less Sugar

Hamburger

3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Hamburger
215
Chicken Sandwich
280
Proteinper 100g
Hamburger
17g
Chicken Sandwich
16g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Hamburger
16g
Chicken Sandwich
28g
Fatper 100g
Hamburger
9g
Chicken Sandwich
12g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientHamburgerChicken SandwichDifference
Calories215kcal280kcal-65.0kcal
Protein17g16g+1.0g
Carbohydrates16g28g-12.0g
Fat9g12g-3.0g
Fiber0g1g-1.0g
Sugar3g4g-1.0g
Sodium404mg590mg-186.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Hamburger

Per 100g:215 calories
Per cup (150g):323 calories
Per serving (85g):183 calories

Chicken Sandwich

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

Diet Compatibility

Hamburger

High-Protein

Chicken Sandwich

High-Protein

When to Choose Hamburger

  • Lower in calories (215 vs 280)
  • Higher in protein (17g vs 16g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (3g vs 4g)
  • Lower sodium (404mg vs 590mg)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Hamburger nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Sandwich

  • More fiber (1g vs 0g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Chicken Sandwich nutrition →

Hamburger vs Chicken Sandwich: Nutritional Analysis

Chicken Sandwich is more calorie-dense at 280 calories per 100g compared to 215 for Hamburger, a difference of 65 calories. On the protein front, Hamburger delivers more with 17g 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 Hamburger and Chicken Sandwich tell different nutritional stories. Hamburger provides 16g of carbohydrates, 9g 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: Hamburger contains 3g 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: Hamburger is the lower-calorie choice at 215 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Hamburger provides more protein (17g/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, Hamburger or Chicken Sandwich?

Chicken Sandwich has more calories with 280 kcal per 100g, compared to Hamburger with 215 kcal. That's a difference of 65 calories per 100g serving.

Is Hamburger healthier than Chicken Sandwich?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Hamburger is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Hamburger has 215 calories, 17g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Hamburger and Chicken Sandwich?

Hamburger has more protein with 17g per 100g, compared to Chicken Sandwich with 16g. Hamburger provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Hamburger is the better choice with only 215 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 Hamburger or Chicken Sandwich have fewer carbs?

Hamburger has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Chicken Sandwich with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Hamburger is the better option with 12.0g 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.