If you're looking for a flavorful and convenient way to include white meat chicken in your diet, you may want to consider canned chicken spread. A 1/4 cup serving of this spread contains about 130 calories, making it a low-calorie and protein-rich option for snacking or as a topping on crackers, bread, or vegetables.

In addition to being a good source of protein, chicken spread also contains macronutrients like fat and carbohydrates. Specifically, a 1/4 cup serving of the spread contains about 9 grams of fat and 1 gram of carbohydrate, making it a higher-fat and lower-carbohydrate option than many other spreads or dips.

In this article, we'll explore some of the key nutritional information, health benefits, pros and cons, and some practical tips for using canned chicken spread in recipes. We'll also take a look at some dietary restrictions and options for making homemade chicken spread, as well as comparing it to other chicken products on the market.

Calories in Chicken Spread

As mentioned before, a 1/4 cup serving of chicken spread contains about 130 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option compared to other spreads or snacks, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying volume without overindulging in calories.

Macronutrients in Chicken Spread

In addition to its protein content, chicken spread also contains some fat and carbohydrates. Specifically, a serving of the spread contains about 9 grams of fat and 1 gram of carbohydrate. While this means it's a relatively high-fat and low-carbohydrate option, it can still be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation.

Micronutrients in Chicken Spread

Chicken spread is not particularly nutrient-dense in terms of vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain some notable micronutrients like iron and vitamin B12. In a 1/4 cup serving, you'll get about 1.5 mg of iron and over half of your daily value of vitamin B12. These are important nutrients for energy metabolism and immune function.

Health Benefits of Chicken Spread

Eating chicken spread can offer some potential health benefits, particularly for those looking to increase their protein intake or follow a low-carbohydrate diet. As a protein-rich food, chicken spread can support muscle growth and repair, as well as appetite control and weight management. Additionally, its low-carbohydrate content may be beneficial for individuals with certain metabolic conditions, such as diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Nutritional Pros and Cons

As with any food, there are pros and cons to including chicken spread in your diet. On the one hand, it's a good source of protein and can be a satisfying and convenient way to meet your protein needs. It's also relatively low in calories and can be used in a variety of recipes or as a snack. On the other hand, it's relatively high in fat and low in carbohydrates, which may not be ideal for everyone depending on their individual health goals and dietary preferences.

How to Use Chicken Spread in Recipes

One of the great things about chicken spread is how versatile it can be. Here are some ideas for incorporating it into your meals or snacks:

• Spread it on crackers, bread, or vegetables for a quick snack
• Use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or pitas
• Add it to salads for extra protein and flavor
• Use it as a dip for raw vegetables or whole grain crackers
• Make a creamy pasta sauce with chicken spread, low-fat milk or yogurt, and seasonings

Dietary Restrictions and Chicken Spread

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you'll want to pay attention to the ingredients in canned chicken spread. Some common allergens or intolerances to look out for include gluten, dairy, soy, and eggs. Additionally, some brands may include additives or preservatives that you may want to avoid. Always read the label carefully and choose a product that fits your needs.

Buying and Storing Chicken Spread

You can typically find canned chicken spread in the canned meat or deli section of your grocery store. Look for a brand with minimal ingredients and no added sugars or artificial flavors. Once opened, store the chicken spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Making Homemade Chicken Spread

If you prefer to make your own chicken spread, it's a relatively simple process. Here's a recipe you can try:

• 1 can (12 oz) white meat chicken, drained and shredded
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Adjust seasonings to taste. Use as a dip or spread as desired.

Comparison with Other Chicken Products

There are many different types of chicken products on the market, and it can be helpful to compare them to see which ones best fit your dietary goals and preferences. Here's how canned chicken spread compares to some other common chicken products:

• Grilled chicken breast (skinless, boneless): About 140 calories, 3 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 26 grams of protein per 3 oz serving.
• Rotisserie chicken (white meat only, skin removed): About 140 calories, 3 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 26 grams of protein per 3 oz serving.
• Canned chicken breast (in water): About 70 calories, 1 gram of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 15 grams of protein per 2 oz serving.

Overall, canned chicken spread can be a convenient and tasty way to get some protein and flavor into your diet, but it's important to consider the nutritional information and ingredients if you're looking to make a healthy choice.