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MoreRotisserie chicken is a popular and convenient meal option that can be found at most grocery stores and delis. It is a whole chicken that has been roasted on a spit, allowing it to cook evenly and retain moisture. This cooking method results in a flavorful and tender chicken that can be eaten as is or used as a base for other dishes. But for those who are counting their calories or following a specific diet, it’s important to know how many calories are in rotisserie chicken.
One of the benefits of rotisserie chicken is that it is relatively low in calories compared to other protein sources. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of roasted chicken breast contains 165 calories, while the same serving of fried chicken contains 285 calories. However, the number of calories in rotisserie chicken can vary depending on the size of the bird and the seasoning and cooking method used.
A whole rotisserie chicken usually weighs between 2 and 4 pounds (0.9-1.8 kg). Based on a weight of 3 pounds (1.4 kg), a rotisserie chicken contains approximately:
Skinless breast meat: 730 calories
Skinless thigh meat: 350 calories
Skinless drumstick: 280 calories
Wing: 130 calories
It’s important to note that these values are based on a 3-pound (1.4-kg) chicken and do not take into account any additional seasoning or sauces that may be added. These can add additional calories to the final dish.
In addition to the number of calories, it’s also important to consider the macronutrient content of rotisserie chicken. One serving (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) of roasted chicken breast contains:
31 grams of protein
3 grams of fat
0 grams of carbohydrates
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps to build and repair tissues, and it also plays a role in weight management. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, as it is relatively low in fat and has no carbohydrates.
However, it’s worth noting that the skin of the chicken contains a significant amount of fat and calories. One serving (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) of roasted chicken skin contains:
8 grams of protein
17 grams of fat
0 grams of carbohydrates
If you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, it’s best to remove the skin from the chicken before eating it. This will significantly reduce the fat and calorie content of the final dish.
In addition to the macronutrient content, rotisserie chicken is also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. A serving of roasted chicken breast (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) contains:
Vitamin B3 (niacin): 59% of the recommended daily value (DV)
Vitamin B6: 29% of the DV
Vitamin B12: 24% of the DV
Phosphorus: 26% of the DV
Selenium: 34% of the DV
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful meal option that can be enjoyed as is or used as a base for other dishes. While it is relatively low in calories compared to other protein sources, it’s important to consider the size of the bird and any additional seasoning or sauces that may be added. Removing the skin from the chicken can also help to reduce the fat and calorie content of the final dish. In addition to being a good source of protein and several important vitamins and minerals, rotisserie chicken can be a healthy and satisfying choice for those looking to include more protein in their diet.
