How Many Calories In Chicken Drumstick?

All nutritional information is based on a combination of chicken from Wegman’s and Wild Fork. Calories & nutrition will vary based on the specific source.

Given that chicken is one of the best sources of protein available (with the obvious exception of vegan diets), it’s no surprise that it frequently appears in high-protein diets.

However, not all chicken is the same. The number of calories in chicken can differ significantly depending on the part, how it’s prepared, how big it is, and whether it has skin or not.

Despite these factors, chicken is a fantastic source of protein, but some varieties are undoubtedly superior to others. Let’s break ’em down.

For the purposes of these analyses, only grilled chicken is being considered. Since grilling does not involve the addition of oil (unlike frying), the calories and nutritional value will not change.

Also, keep in mind that we’ll be examining 4 ounces of raw chicken. We’re going to stick with the weight of raw chicken because cooking changes the weight of meat (I have a handy guide for that here), so comparisons will be simple. If you need a quick explanation of how cooking affects the final weight of grilled chicken, read on:

It is safe to assume that cooked chicken breast will weigh about 25% less than raw chicken breast. Although the 25% is not an exact science because it will depend on the type of meat, the cooking method, etc., it is a reasonable estimate for cooked meat.

This means that the 4 ounces of chicken listed throughout the article are actually 3 ounces of cooked chicken.

And to clear up any misunderstandings: this weight change DOES NOT affect the calories or nutrition. Cooking only causes water weight to be lost when meat loses weight.

How does skin affect chicken thigh calories?

You’re probably used to seeing chicken thighs with the skin on, unless you’re purchasing cut and trimmed chicken thighs from the supermarket. If you order a bucket of chicken, it will be served skin-on and either grilled or fried.

The calories and nutrition aren’t significantly changed by the skin in this instance. The fat content of chicken thighs is already slightly above average because they are made of a higher-fat dark meat. The nutritional value of eating an equivalent portion with skin is very similar, despite having slightly more fat and less protein.

According to the Food and Nutrition Research paper, eating a lot of chicken and other poultry, whole grains, fish, fruit, and vegetables helps to manage or prevent the symptoms of diabetes. Limit your consumption of red meat, processed foods, refined sugar, and starches while on this diet.

Changing the way you prepare the chicken drumstick changes its calorie count. For example, if you fry the leg, its going to add calories and fat to the nutritional profile of the meal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics explains that baking, grilling and roasting are the healthiest preparation options.

One drumstick, roasted with skin, contains 167 calories, 22 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat, according to USDA FoodData Central. In a paper published in June 2015 by the journal Food and Nutrition Research, it was noted that leaving the skin on chicken increases the calorie content by 25 to 30%.

This drumstick is also a decent source of iron, providing 1 milligram of the 8 (men) to 18 (women) milligrams needed per day, for most adults. Chicken legs also contain a fair amount of potassium, with 240 milligrams of the 2,600 to 3,400 milligrams needed daily (men need more than women). You also get 1.88 milligrams of the mineral zinc. The chicken drumstick nutrition breakdown also offers B vitamins, and small amounts of vitamins A, D and K.

Your body needs protein to support function, repair and growth in just about every cell in your body. Adequate protein levels help build muscle, and also help boost your immune system, transport nutrients to organs and tissues, and keep your body fluids in balance, explains the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Calories in chicken thigh

170 Calories, 8g Fat, 0g Carbs, 24g Protein

FAQ

How many calories are in 2 Chicken Drumsticks?

There are 210 calories in 2 medium Chicken Drumsticks. * The% Daily Value (DV) indicates how much a nutrient contributes to a daily diet in a serving of food.

Is chicken drumstick good for weight loss?

The leanest and most protein-rich food is chicken breast, which is perfect for those looking to reduce their body fat, keep their muscle mass, and speed up their recovery. The thigh, drumstick, and wings are fattier cuts that have more calories, making them better for people looking to gain weight or muscle.

How many calories are in a chicken drumstick with skin removed?

A 3-ounce chicken leg (thigh and drumstick) with the skin removed has 0g of total carbs, 0g of net carbs, and 5 calories. 1g fat, 23. 6g protein, and 147 calories.

How many calories are in 2 large Chicken Drumsticks?

There are 278 calories in 2 large Chicken Drumsticks. Calorie Breakdown: 48% fat, 0% carbs, 52% prot.