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

Sunflower Seeds vs Chicken Breast: 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?

Chicken Breast is generally healthier

Chicken Breast comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (165 vs 584), more protein (31g vs 9g), less sugar (0g vs 2.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Chicken Breast

165 kcal

More Protein

Chicken Breast

31g

More Fiber

Sunflower Seeds

8.6g

Less Sugar

Chicken Breast

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
584
Chicken Breast
165
Proteinper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Chicken Breast
31g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Chicken Breast
0g
Fatper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
51g
Chicken Breast
3.6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSunflower SeedsChicken BreastDifference
Calories584kcal165kcal+419.0kcal
Protein9g31g-22.0g
Carbohydrates20g0g+20.0g
Fat51g3.6g+47.4g
Fiber8.6g0g+8.6g
Sugar2.6g0g+2.6g
Sodium9mg74mg-65.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Chicken Breast

Per 100g:165 calories
Per cup (150g):248 calories
Per serving (85g):140 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Chicken Breast

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • More fiber (8.6g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (9mg vs 74mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

When to Choose Chicken Breast

  • Lower in calories (165 vs 584)
  • Higher in protein (31g vs 9g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 20g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Chicken Breast nutrition →

Sunflower Seeds vs Chicken Breast: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 165 for Chicken Breast, a difference of 419 calories. On the protein front, Chicken Breast delivers more with 31g 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 Sunflower Seeds and Chicken Breast tell different nutritional stories. Sunflower Seeds provides 20g of carbohydrates, 51g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Chicken Breast contains 0g carbs, 3.6g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sunflower Seeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Sunflower Seeds contains 2.6g while Chicken Breast has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Chicken Breast is the lower-calorie choice at 165 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Chicken Breast provides more protein (31g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sunflower Seeds offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Sunflower Seeds or Chicken Breast?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Chicken Breast with 165 kcal. That's a difference of 419 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sunflower Seeds healthier than Chicken Breast?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Chicken Breast is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Chicken Breast has 165 calories, 31g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sunflower Seeds and Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast has more protein with 31g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 9g. Chicken Breast provides 22.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sunflower Seeds or Chicken Breast?

For weight loss, Chicken Breast is the better choice with only 165 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Sunflower Seeds also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sunflower Seeds or Chicken Breast have fewer carbs?

Chicken Breast has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Sunflower Seeds with 20g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chicken Breast is the better option with 20.0g 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.