When it comes to satisfying your craving for fried chicken, a chicken thigh is sure to hit the spot. One thigh, bone removed, with the skin on, fried in flour and cooked to perfection, provides 162 calories. But what are the nutritional values you get from indulging in this delicious treat?
A single chicken thigh with skin on provides 13 grams of fat, making up for 20% of the recommended daily fat intake of a typical adult. Nevertheless, this contains plenty of protein and other nutritious components.
In this article, we'll explore the various nutritional components, health benefits, cooking tips, and recipes of chicken thigh meat and skin.
Calories in Chicken Thigh Meat with Skin
A chicken thigh with skin, fried in flour, but bone removed, provides 162 calories. While it may seem like a substantial amount of calories for a single piece of meat, it is still within the range of a recommended serving for a typical adult.
Fat Content in Fried Chicken Thighs
A single chicken thigh with skin on provides approximately 13 grams of fat, which accounts for roughly 20 percent of a typical adult's recommended daily fat intake. Although it has a high-fat content, it remains an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Protein in Boneless Chicken Thighs
If you're looking for a protein-rich source of meat, boneless chicken thighs are an excellent option. A single chicken thigh contains approximately 13 grams of protein, a nutrient responsible for building and repairing lean muscle and tissues in the body.
Carbohydrate Content in Chicken Thighs with Skin
Although chicken thigh meat with skin on does not contain carbohydrates, the breading used to fry it does. If you are concerned about your carbohydrate intake or are aiming for a low-carb diet, consider baking the chicken instead of frying.
Sodium Content in Fried Chicken Thighs
Fried chicken thighs have a high sodium content, making them unsuitable for people who have high blood pressure or heart problems. Nevertheless, if you're going to prepare them yourself, you can control the amount of sodium you put in the breading.
Cholesterol in Chicken Thighs with Skin
A 1-ounce serving of chicken thigh meat with skin contains about 23 milligrams of cholesterol. While this may not appear to be a significant amount, it is still recommended that those with heart concerns consume chicken breast instead of thighs.
Vitamins and Minerals in Thigh, Bone Removed Chicken Thigh Meat and Skin
Chicken thigh meat with the skin has essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, vitamin D, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus. These are crucial nutrients that support brain function, boost immunity, and maintain healthy bones.
Health Benefits of Chicken Thigh Meat and Skin
Apart from its delectable taste, chicken thighs can provide numerous health benefits such as improved muscle strength and growth, boosted metabolism, strengthened immune system, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cooking Tips for Fried Chicken Thighs
If you decide to fry chicken thighs, keep in mind that they can cook quicker than battered chicken breasts. Also, make sure to heat the oil to the right temperature, and never overcrowd the frying pan. Lastly, dry the chicken thoroughly before dipping it into the batter to avoid too much moisture that can result in splattering.
Recipes using Chicken Thigh Meat and Skin
Chicken thighs are a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various ways. Here are some recipes that you can try: Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, Honey Soy Chicken Thighs, Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs, and Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Thighs.
5 FAQs about Boneless Fried Chicken Thigh (162 calories)
1. Is boneless fried chicken thigh a healthy food?
Boneless fried chicken thigh may not be the healthiest food choice as it generally contains a high amount of calories and fat. However, it can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with healthier food choices.
2. How many calories does one serving of boneless fried chicken thigh contain?
One serving of boneless fried chicken thigh (approximately 3.5 ounces or 100 grams) contains around 162 calories.
3. Can boneless fried chicken thigh be cooked using healthier methods?
Yes, boneless fried chicken thigh can be baked, grilled or air fried as healthier cooking alternatives to deep-frying. These cooking methods can help reduce the amount of calories and fat in the dish.
4. Is boneless fried chicken thigh gluten-free?
Boneless fried chicken thigh is typically coated in flour before being fried, which makes it not gluten-free. However, gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute to make it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
5. What are some healthier alternatives to boneless fried chicken thigh?
Some healthier alternatives to boneless fried chicken thigh include grilled or baked chicken breast, grilled fish or vegetables, or vegetarian protein sources like tofu or tempeh.