If you're looking for a quick and easy protein source, look no further than 3 oz (84 g) of Original Chicken Leg Quarters. With 140 calories per serving, this is a filling and tasty meal option.
In addition to being high in protein, chicken leg quarters are also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. These include niacin, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin B6, among others. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of chicken leg quarters and explore some cooking methods that will help you make the most of this delicious protein source.
Whether you're on a budget, short on time, or just looking for a change of pace in your meal planning, adding chicken leg quarters to your diet is a smart choice.
Weight of Chicken Leg Quarters
A typical bone-in chicken leg quarter weighs around 3-4 oz (84-113 g). If you're watching your calorie intake, be sure to use a kitchen scale to measure your portions accurately.
Calories in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
As mentioned, a 3 oz (84 g) serving of Original Chicken Leg Quarters contains roughly 140 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal option that still packs in plenty of protein.
Nutritional Value of Original Chicken Leg Quarters
In addition to protein, chicken leg quarters are also a good source of several important nutrients. These include:
- Niacin
- Phosphorus
- Selenium
- Vitamin B6
These nutrients play important roles in maintaining overall health and wellness, so incorporating chicken leg quarters into your diet can have a wide range of benefits.
Protein in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
One of the biggest draws of chicken leg quarters is their high protein content. In addition to being filling and satisfying, protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. A single 3 oz (84 g) serving of chicken leg quarters contains around 17-19 grams of protein, making it an efficient and effective source of the nutrient.
Fat Content in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
While chicken leg quarters are a good source of protein, they are also relatively high in fat. In a typical 3 oz (84 g) serving, you can expect to find around 6-8 grams of fat, depending on how the chicken is prepared. However, much of the fat in chicken leg quarters is unsaturated, which can actually be beneficial for heart health. And because chicken leg quarters are a whole food, they contain a variety of other nutrients that make them a healthy choice overall.
Carbohydrates in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
Chicken leg quarters are a low-carbohydrate food, with just 1-2 grams of carbs per serving. This makes them a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Cholesterol in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
Because chicken is an animal product, it naturally contains cholesterol. A 3 oz (84 g) serving of chicken leg quarters contains around 75-85 milligrams of cholesterol, which is approximately 25% of the recommended daily intake for most adults. While this may seem like a lot, research has shown that dietary cholesterol may not have as big an impact on blood cholesterol levels as previously thought. If you're concerned about cholesterol in your diet, talk to your healthcare provider about what levels are right for you.
Sodium in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
Depending on how chicken leg quarters are prepared, they can be a significant source of sodium. A 3 oz (84 g) serving typically contains around 200-300 milligrams of sodium, or around 10-15% of the recommended daily intake. If you're watching your sodium intake, be sure to read nutrition labels carefully and choose lower-sodium methods of preparation (more on that in the next section).
Vitamins and Minerals in Original Chicken Leg Quarters
As mentioned earlier, chicken leg quarters are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. Here's a breakdown of some of the key nutrients found in a typical 3 oz (84 g) serving:
- Niacin: 22% of the recommended daily intake
- Phosphorus: 17% of the recommended daily intake
- Selenium: 21% of the recommended daily intake
- Vitamin B6: 11% of the recommended daily intake
These nutrients play important roles in maintaining overall health and wellness, so incorporating chicken leg quarters into your diet can have a wide range of benefits.
Cooking Methods for Original Chicken Leg Quarters
Chicken leg quarters are a versatile protein source that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are some popular methods of preparation:
- Baked: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place chicken leg quarters in a baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grilled: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush chicken leg quarters with your favorite marinade. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Slow-cooked: Place chicken leg quarters in a crockpot with your favorite seasonings and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method will result in tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken that's perfect for shredding or slicing.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use a food thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
Chicken leg quarters are an affordable and delicious protein source that can be a great addition to any meal plan.
5 FAQs About Original Chicken Leg Quarters
1. What is the serving size of Original Chicken Leg Quarters?
The serving size of Original Chicken Leg Quarters is 3 oz (84 g).
2. How many calories are in Original Chicken Leg Quarters?
There are 140 calories in Original Chicken Leg Quarters.
3. Is Original Chicken Leg Quarters a healthy food option?
Original Chicken Leg Quarters can be a part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced meal plan. However, they are high in fat, especially saturated fat, so it is important to limit your intake if you are watching your fat intake.
4. How should Original Chicken Leg Quarters be cooked?
Original Chicken Leg Quarters can be cooked in a variety of ways including grilling, baking, frying, or roasting. It is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked fully to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
5. Are there any potential allergens in Original Chicken Leg Quarters?
Original Chicken Leg Quarters are made from chicken and do not contain any common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, wheat, soy, or eggs. However, it is always important to read the label of any food product to check for allergens.