If you're craving a hearty and protein-packed meal, look no further than 100 grams of roasted, broiled, or baked chicken drumstick (skin eaten). And with only 214 calories per serving, you can indulge without the guilt.

Chicken drumsticks are a great source of protein, providing about 24 grams per serving. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them not only delicious but nutritious too. Let's take a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of chicken drumsticks.

In this article, we'll also cover some healthy options for cooking chicken drumsticks, so you can enjoy them while sticking to your dietary goals.

Protein content of roasted chicken drumsticks

One hundred grams of roasted chicken drumsticks offers about 24 grams of protein. Protein is crucial for building and repairing muscle tissue, maintaining immune function, and supporting healthy bones. Chicken is an excellent source of complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids the body needs. Building a healthy diet around protein-rich foods like chicken drumsticks can help support your overall health and well-being. Eating chicken drumsticks as part of a balanced diet can help you stay fuller for longer, regulating blood sugar levels and preventing overeating.

Energy density of baked chicken drumsticks

Baked chicken drumsticks have a lower energy density than beef or pork, making them a smart choice for those looking to cut calories without sacrificing taste or nutrition. One hundred grams of baked chicken drumsticks contains only 214 calories, making it a lean source of energy to fuel your body throughout the day. Eating foods that are energy-dense can lead to overeating and weight gain. Choosing lower-energy-dense foods like baked chicken drumsticks can help you maintain a healthy weight and support overall health.

Fat content of broiled chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks contain both saturated and unsaturated fats, but the majority of the fat is unsaturated. This healthy type of fat can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Broiling chicken drumsticks is a healthy way to prepare them, as it helps reduce the overall fat content. One hundred grams of broiled chicken drumsticks contains only 9.7 grams of fat, most of which is unsaturated. Eating healthy fats like those found in chicken drumsticks can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge to snack on unhealthy foods between meals.

Mineral content of roasted chicken drumsticks

One hundred grams of roasted chicken drumsticks contains 16% of the daily recommended intake of iron, an essential mineral involved in the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Calcium is also present in chicken drumsticks, providing about 1% of the daily recommended intake per 100-gram serving. This mineral is essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Sodium is also present in chicken drumsticks, providing about 5% of the daily recommended intake per 100-gram serving. However, be mindful of your sodium intake, as consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.

Vitamin B6 in roasted chicken drumsticks

One hundred grams of roasted chicken drumsticks provides around 16% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B6, making it an excellent source of this essential nutrient. Vitamin B6 is crucial for maintaining heart health, brain function, and the immune system. Low levels of vitamin B6 can lead to anemia, depression, and other health problems. Eating vitamin B6-rich foods like chicken drumsticks can help you stay healthy and energized.

Cholesterol in baked chicken drumsticks

Dietary cholesterol is present in chicken drumsticks, but the amount is relatively small, with 100 grams providing around 87 milligrams. While dietary cholesterol was once believed to contribute to high blood cholesterol levels, the latest research indicates that this is not the case for the majority of people. Instead, consuming foods high in saturated and trans fats have been found to be significant contributors to raised blood cholesterol levels. For individuals concerned about cholesterol levels, it is recommended to limit saturated and trans fat intake rather than focusing on dietary cholesterol alone.

Iron content of broiled chicken drumsticks

Iron is a critical mineral that supports healthy brain function, immune function, and oxygen transport throughout the body. Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of iron, with 100 grams providing around 12% of the daily recommended intake. Broiling chicken drumsticks can help ensure the body absorbs as much iron as possible. Iron is better absorbed from meat than plant sources, so incorporating chicken drumsticks into your diet can help you reach your daily recommended intake more easily. Iron deficiency is common among many populations, causing fatigue and other health problems. Eating iron-rich foods like chicken drumsticks can help prevent deficiencies and support overall health.

Sodium content of baked chicken drumsticks

Sodium is an essential mineral that helps the body maintain the right balance of fluids, transmit nerve impulses, and contract and relax muscles. However, too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. One hundred grams of baked chicken drumsticks provides around 5% of the daily recommended intake of sodium. By keeping an eye on your sodium intake and eating in moderation, you can enjoy chicken drumsticks while promoting healthy blood pressure and overall health. Eating a balanced diet with a moderate amount of sodium can help maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Calcium in roasted chicken drumsticks

Calcium is essential for healthy bones, muscle function, and nerve signaling. While calcium is mostly present in dairy products, chicken drumsticks contain small amounts of calcium, providing about 1% of the daily recommended intake per 100 grams. Incorporating calcium-rich foods like chicken drumsticks into your diet can help support bone health and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. However, it's essential to eat a variety of calcium-rich foods to ensure you're meeting your daily recommended intake. While dairy is an excellent source of calcium, some people may prefer or be unable to tolerate dairy products. Eating calcium-rich foods like chicken drumsticks can help these individuals meet their daily recommended calcium intake.

Healthy options for cooking chicken drumsticks

While roasted, broiled, and baked chicken drumsticks can all be healthy options, certain cooking methods are healthier than others. For example, broiling is a great cooking method for reducing fat because it allows the fat to drip away from the meat. Baking or roasting chicken drumsticks can also be a healthy option because it brings out a smoky, savory flavor. Using herbs and spices like rosemary, paprika, or cumin can also enhance flavor without relying on salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. When cooking chicken drumsticks, it's essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Storing leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours can help prevent bacteria growth, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.