Carbs in Chicken and Keto Chicken Recipes

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Ever wonder how many carbs are in chicken? Chicken is a popular option for its versatility and lean protein content, but how does it fit into a keto diet? In this post, we’ll explore the carb content of different cuts of chicken and provide some delicious keto-friendly chicken recipes.

Following a ketogenic diet involves a low-carb, high-fat approach to eating, which can make it challenging to find sources of protein that fit within the guidelines. 

Is Chicken Keto-Friendly?

The short answer is yes, chicken can be a keto-friendly protein source. However, the carb content varies depending on other ingredients used and how it’s prepared. 

It’s important to be mindful of the carb content and track your intake to stay within your daily carb limit.

How Many Net Carbs In Chicken? 

To calculate net carbs, subtract the fiber from the total carb count. Since chicken doesn’t contain fiber, the net carb count is the same as the total carb count.

100-gram serving	Net Carbs
Chicken Breast	0 grams
Chicken Thigh	0.25 grams
Chicken Wings	0 grams
Chicken Drumstick	0 grams
Chicken Skin	0 grams

How Many Carbs In Chicken?

The amount of carbs in chicken varies based on the cut and cooking method. Here’s a breakdown of the carb content for some common chicken cuts (breast, thigh, wing, drumstick and skin) for every 100-gram serving based on the USDA nutrient database:

• Chicken Breast: 0 grams of carbs
• Chicken Thigh: 0.25 grams of carbs
• Chicken Wings: 0 grams of carbs
• Chicken Drumstick: 0 grams of carbs
• Chicken Skin: 0 grams of carbs

Carbs And Calories in Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is a popular option for its low-fat content and high protein content. In addition, it’s low in calories, with 0 carbs and 120 calories per 100 grams of skinless, boneless, chicken breast. This makes it a great option for those following a calorie-restricted keto diet.

Carbs And Calories In Chicken Thigh

While chicken thighs are higher in fat than chicken breasts, they’re still a great source of protein. They contain approximately 221 calories and 0.25 grams of carbs per 100 grams.

Carbs And Calories In Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a popular appetizer, but they can be high in calories and carbs if they’re breaded or covered in sauce. However, plain chicken wings contain 0 grams of carbs per 100 grams and approximately 203 calories.

Carbs And Calories In Chicken Drumstick

Chicken drumsticks are another great option for those on a keto diet. They contain 0 grams of carbs per 100 grams and 116 calories.

Carbs And Calories In Chicken Skin

While chicken skin is high in fat, it’s also carb-free. However, it’s important to note that the calorie content is high, with approximately 349 calories per 100 grams.

How To Incorporate Chicken Into Your Keto Diet

Chicken is a versatile protein source that can be incorporated into a variety of keto-friendly meals. Here are some tips:

• Add healthy fats: While chicken breast is low in fat, it’s still important to get enough healthy fats in your diet. You can add healthy fats to your chicken by cooking it in olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil, or by topping it with avocado or nuts.
• Use chicken in salads: Salads are a great way to incorporate chicken into your keto diet. Mix chicken breast with leafy greens, low-carb vegetables, and a keto-friendly dressing for a nutritious and filling meal.
• Use different cooking methods: Chicken can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as grilling, baking, roasting, or sautéing. Try to use different cooking methods to keep your meals interesting and avoid getting bored with your keto diet.

Chicken Nutrition (Macros)

Here’s a breakdown of the macros for a 100-gram serving of raw skinless, boneless, chicken breast:

• Carbs: 0 grams
• Fats: 2.6 grams
• Protein: 22.5 grams
• Calories: 120

FAQ

How Many Carbs Are In Cooked Chicken?

The number of carbs in cooked chicken can vary depending on how it’s prepared. A 3-ounce serving of roasted chicken breast contains around 0 grams of carbs, while a 3-ounce serving of breaded fried chicken can contain up to 14 grams of carbs.

How Many Carbs Are In A Chicken Breast?

A 3-ounce serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast contains around 0 grams of carbs according to USDA.

Is Chicken High In Carbs?

Chicken is low in carbs, especially if it’s skinless and prepared without breading or sauces. However, some types of chicken dishes, such as fried chicken, can be high in carbs.

Can You Eat Chicken On A Low-Carb Diet?

Yes, chicken can be a great option for a low-carb diet, as it’s high in protein and low in carbs. Just make sure to choose skinless, boneless chicken breast and avoid breaded or fried chicken.

How Many Carbs Are In A Serving Of Grilled Chicken?

A 3-ounce serving of grilled chicken breast contains around 0 grams of carbs per USDA.

How Does The Cooking Method Affect The Carb Content Of Chicken?

The carb content of chicken can vary depending on how it’s prepared. Grilled, roasted, or baked chicken is generally low in carbs, while breaded or fried chicken can be high in carbs.

Is Chicken A Good Source Of Protein For A Low-Carb Diet?

Yes, chicken is a great source of protein for a low-carb diet, as it’s high in protein and low in carbs. It’s also a good source of other nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and iron.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken can be a great option for a keto diet, as long as it’s prepared without breading or sauces. Skinless, boneless chicken breast is particularly low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake. So, next time you’re looking for a low-carb protein source, consider adding some chicken to your plate.

Best Keto Chicken Recipes 

Keto Chicken Breasts

This tender baked chicken breast is made in just 20 minutes. Say goodbye to dry chicken and enjoy a guilt-free, low-carb meal with 0g net carbs and only 1g total carbs.

• Net Carbs: 0 g
• Total Carbs: 1 g
• Calories: 292
• Fat: 9 g
• Protein: 48 g

Keto Chicken Nuggets

These Keto Chicken Nuggets taste just like the ones from McDonald’s but with only 1 carb! Made with almond flour and parmesan cheese breading, these nuggets are low-carb and keto-friendly, and have 258 calories with 40g of fat and 8g of protein.

• Net Carbs: 1 g
• Total Carbs: 1 g
• Calories: 258
• Fat: 40 g
• Protein: 8 g

Keto Parmesan Chicken

Get a crispy chicken parmesan dish in under 30 minutes with this quick and easy Keto Parmesan Chicken recipe. With only 4.3 net carbs per serving, this simplified version is full of flavor and perfect for a guilt-free dinner option.

• Net Carbs: 4.3 g
• Total Carbs: 6.3 g
• Calories: 426.4
• Fat: 27.8 g
• Protein: 39.1 g

Keto Fried Chicken

Enjoy homemade crispy Keto Fried Chicken made with almond flour and parmesan cheese breading. This easy recipe turns out golden brown and juicy every time. With 2.5g net carbs and 380 calories, this keto-friendly chicken dish is a weeknight meal favorite.

• Net Carbs: 2.5 g
• Total Carbs: 5 g
• Calories: 380
• Fat: 26 g
• Protein: 34 g

Keto Chicken Salad

Whip up this creamy Keto Chicken Salad quickly for meal prep all week. With 0g net carbs and 437 calories, this keto-friendly salad is made with shredded chicken and has a creamy and rich taste.

• Net Carbs: 0 g
• Total Carbs: 1 g
• Calories: 437
• Fat: 31 g
• Protein: 37 g

Keto Chicken Thighs

These Keto Chicken Thighs are baked to perfection and super crispy. Made with 2g net carbs and 195 calories, they’re perfect for a kid-friendly and easy weeknight meal option.

• Net Carbs: 2 g
• Total Carbs: 2 g
• Calories: 195
• Fat: 14 g
• Protein: 17 g

Keto Crack Chicken

You’ll be surprised by the bursting flavors of bacon, cream cheese, and mozzarella in this keto-friendly Crack Chicken recipe. With only 2.4g net carbs and 364.8 calories, this dish is gluten-free, grain-free, and sugar-free.

• Net Carbs: 2.4 g
• Total Carbs: 2.5 g
• Calories: 364.8
• Fat: 22 g
• Protein: 38.2 g

Keto Chicken Casserole

This Keto Chicken Casserole is ready in just 40 minutes for an easy one-dish meal, perfect for weeknight dinners. With 1.7g net carbs and 365 calories, this casserole is keto-friendly, delicious, and also makes great leftovers.

• Net Carbs: 1.7 g
• Total Carbs: 2 g
• Calories: 365
• Fat: 22 g
• Protein: 36 g

Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip

Comforting and flavorful, this easy Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is a must-try. With 3g net carbs and 267 calories, this dip is creamy, cheesy, and a little spicy – perfect for sharing with friends and family.

• Net Carbs: 3 g
• Total Carbs: 3 g
• Calories: 267
• Fat: 22 g
• Protein: 14 g

Keto Chicken Pot Pie

This flavorful Keto Chicken Pot Pie is so flavorful and satisfying, perfect for an easy dinner on cold nights. With 7.9g net carbs and 741 calories, these single serving pies have a creamy chicken filling and a crispy crust – great for a hearty main course.

• Net Carbs: 7.9 g
• Total Carbs: 10.9 g
• Calories: 741
• Fat: 62.4 g
• Protein: 36.2 g

Keto Butter Chicken

This Indian-style restaurant-quality Keto Butter Chicken will be ready in under 30 minutes. With 6g net carbs and 420 calories, this dish is perfect for a delicious weeknight meal.

• Net Carbs: 6 g
• Total Carbs: 8 g
• Calories: 420
• Fat: 15 g
• Protein: 31 g

Keto Chicken Tenders

This homemade recipe tastes like your favorite fast-food chicken restaurant – they are crispy, juicy, and keto-friendly. With about 1g net carb per chicken strip and 177 calories, these tenders make an easy keto meal solution.

• Net Carbs: 1.3 g
• Total Carbs: 2.1 g
• Calories: 177
• Fat: 8.6 g
• Protein: 24.5 g

Keto Chicken Wings

With 1.3g net carbs and 386 calories, these wings are the ultimate low-carb finger food, perfect for keto dieters to enjoy on game days.

• Net Carbs: 1.3 g
• Total Carbs: 1.4 g
• Calories: 386
• Fat: 28.2 g
• Protein: 30.6 g

Keto White Chicken Chili

This low-carb Creamy White Chicken Chili is perfect for adding to your keto meal prep rotation. With only 5.3g net carbs and 390 calories, this yummy and hearty soup is made with simple ingredients and makes a fantastic main course.

• Net Carbs: 5.3 g
• Total Carbs: 10.1 g
• Calories: 390
• Fat: 217 g
• Protein: 33 g

Keto Chicken Alfredo

Enjoy the comforting flavor of chicken alfredo without the carbs with this low-carb version featuring broccoli and plenty of cheese.

• Net Carbs: 6 g
• Total Carbs: 7 g
• Calories: 565
• Fat: 38 g
• Protein: 38 g

Keto Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

This easy casserole is a rich and cheesy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With tender chicken and broccoli, it’s a satisfying meal that’s low in carbs.

• Net Carbs: 4 g
• Total Carbs: 6 g
• Calories: 416
• Fat: 30 g
• Protein: 31 g

Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu

This keto-friendly version of the classic chicken cordou bleu features tender chicken, melty Swiss cheese, and ham. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried until crispy, it’s drizzled with a creamy dijon sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.

• Net Carbs: 3.6 g
• Total Carbs: 4.3 g
• Calories: 631
• Fat: 38.5 g
• Protein: 60 g

Keto Chicken Enchiladas

Enjoy the bold flavors of classic chicken enchiladas without the carbs! This keto-friendly version is loaded with tender shredded chicken, homemade tortillas, and plenty of gooey cheese.

• Net Carbs: 6 g
• Total Carbs: 12 g
• Calories: 462
• Fat: 28 g
• Protein: 35 g

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This cheesy and bacony casserole is a comforting and filling meal that’s easy to make. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it’s a low-carb favorite that won’t disappoint.

• Net Carbs: 4.1 g
• Total Carbs: 4.4 g
• Calories: 516.2
• Fat: 16.1 g
• Protein: 36.4 g

Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup

Enjoy the creamy and rich flavor of tortilla soup without the carbs with this keto-friendly version. It features tender chicken and plenty of toppings like avocado and shredded cheese.

• Net Carbs: 8 g
• Total Carbs: 10 g
• Calories: 315
• Fat: 20 g
• Protein: 24 g

Keto Orange Chicken

Satisfy your Chinese takeout cravings without breaking your macros with this easy and flavorful keto orange chicken recipe. Topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, it’s a perfect dinner meal.

• Net Carbs: 1 g
• Total Carbs: 2 g
• Calories: 328
• Fat: 13 g
• Protein: 47 g

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