Chicken is a lean meat. Chicken is one of the preferred sources of animal proteins containing all the essential amino acids. It is also a source of Vitamin A, B and D. It contains minerals like phosphorous, iron, and selenium. Eating healthy portions of chicken help you receive the right kind of nutrition and health benefits. Ideally, we need (0.8 – 1.5 gram/kg of body weight), so 50-55 grams of protein per day is sufficient for a healthy individual.
A 100-gram portion of Chicken breast approximately contains 22 grams of proteins and 9 grams of fats and has the lowest amounts of fat content for the same serving size when compared to the thigh cut, leg cut, and whole Chicken.
Eating chicken can help you stay in shape as chicken is a protein rich food. Since the same amount of fats can be twice as calorie dense as proteins or carbohydrates, consuming food with more protein can make you feel fuller for longer periods of time, thereby preventing you from overeating in the subsequent meals.
In terms of meat, Chicken can be an alternative to red meat as it has almost half the number of calories for the same portion size.
However, it is important to eat Chicken the right way. The right way to consume chicken depends on other extraneous factors like preparation of Chicken. Hence, home-cooked Chicken, preferably with less oil or boiled versions, is always a better option than the fast-food options that come with excessive oils and saturated fats. Eating skinless Chicken and breast cuts as a part of a balanced diet will ensure you meet your nutritional requirements.
As long as the number of calories consumed is following the recommended calorie intake, you are free to eat as much of Chicken as you want without worrying about getting fat. Still, don’t forget to add colors to the plate by adding fruits, nuts, legumes, and vegetables in the diet.