How Many Calories Are in 150g of Chicken Breast? A Simple Guide

Chicken breast is a popular choice for anyone looking to eat healthy, build muscle, or manage their weight. But if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might be wondering: How many calories are actually in 150 grams of chicken breast? In this guide, we’ll break it all down in a friendly, straightforward way. We’ll also look at the nutritional benefits, how cooking methods can affect calories, and answer some common questions along the way.

Calories in 150g of Chicken Breast: The Quick Answer

The number of calories in chicken breast can vary slightly depending on whether it’s raw or cooked, and if it has skin or not. Here’s the basic breakdown:

• Raw, skinless chicken breast (150g): About 165 calories
• Cooked, skinless chicken breast (150g): About 248 calories

The difference comes from water loss during cooking, which makes the chicken denser and increases the calorie count per gram.

Why Is Chicken Breast So Popular?

Chicken breast is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and home cooks alike for good reason. It’s:

• Low in fat (especially without skin)
• High in protein, making it great for muscle building
• Versatile—it works in salads, stir-fries, sandwiches, and more
• Easy to cook and widely available

Nutritional Breakdown of 150g Chicken Breast

Here’s what you get in a typical 150g serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast (cooked):

• Calories: ~248 kcal
• Protein: ~46g
• Total Fat: ~3g
• Saturated Fat: ~1g
• Carbohydrates: 0g (chicken breast is carb-free!)
• Sodium: ~90mg (varies by brand and preparation)

A Closer Look at Protein Content

If you’re aiming to build or maintain muscle, chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein. With about 30-31g protein per 100g (cooked), a 150g portion gives you roughly 46g of protein—well over half the daily recommendation for many adults!

How Cooking Methods Affect Calories

The way you cook your chicken breast can impact its calorie count. Here’s how:

• Baking or Grilling: Adds minimal calories if you use little or no oil.
• Frying or Sautéing: Can add significant calories depending on how much oil or butter you use.
• Boiling or Poaching: Keeps calories low since no added fat is used.

Tip: If you’re counting calories, stick to baking, grilling, or boiling. Be mindful of sauces and marinades—they can add hidden sugars and fats!

Chicken Breast With Skin vs. Without Skin

The skin on chicken breast contains extra fat and calories. Here’s a quick comparison for a 150g portion:

• With skin (cooked): ~330 calories
• Without skin (cooked): ~248 calories

If you’re looking to cut down on calories and fat, removing the skin is a smart choice.

Other Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Breast

Apart from being high in protein and low in fat, chicken breast offers other important nutrients such as:

• B vitamins: Especially niacin (B3) and B6 for energy metabolism
• Selenium: An antioxidant mineral important for immune health
• Phosphorus: For strong bones and teeth

Practical Tips for Measuring and Cooking Chicken Breast

• Weigh Before or After Cooking? Most nutrition labels refer to raw weight. If you weigh after cooking, remember that the same piece will weigh less but have the same total calories as before cooking.
• Trim Visible Fat: Removing any extra fat before cooking can help reduce calories further.
• Avoid Heavy Sauces: Creamy or sugary sauces can add hundreds of extra calories.
• Add Flavor with Herbs & Spices: Use garlic, pepper, paprika, or lemon juice for flavor without extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is chicken breast good for weight loss?

Absolutely! Chicken breast is high in protein and low in fat—both important for feeling full and preserving muscle while losing weight. Just watch your portion sizes and cooking methods.

How does chicken breast compare to other meats?

Chicken breast generally has fewer calories and less fat than beef or pork. It’s also lower in cholesterol compared to some red meats.

Does marinating chicken add calories?

If you use oil-based marinades or sugary sauces, yes. Stick to vinegar, citrus juice, herbs, and spices for low-calorie flavor boosts.

Can I eat chicken breast every day?

You can include chicken breast regularly as part of a balanced diet. Try to pair it with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats for variety.

What’s the best way to store cooked chicken breast?

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it—just make sure it’s cooled completely first.

The Bottom Line: Chicken Breast Is a Lean, Healthy Choice

If you’re looking for a nutritious, low-calorie protein source, chicken breast is hard to beat. A standard 150g portion of cooked, skinless chicken breast delivers about 248 calories and a generous helping of protein—ideal for anyone focused on health, fitness, or weight management.

No matter your goals—whether it’s losing weight, building muscle, or simply eating better—chicken breast is a versatile ingredient that fits right into a healthy lifestyle. Just remember to choose healthy cooking methods and watch out for high-calorie add-ons!

If you have more questions about chicken nutrition or want recipe ideas, let us know in the comments below!