How many calories are in 150g of Shredded Chicken?

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

Cooked, skinless chicken breast provides roughly 31 grams of protein per 100g serving. This article details how many calories are in 150g of shredded chicken, distinguishing between different cuts and preparation methods to help you accurately track your intake.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for 150g of shredded chicken varies based on the cut and preparation. Skinless chicken breast has fewer calories than chicken thigh meat. Key factors affecting the total include the presence of skin and added ingredients like oils or sauces.

Key Points

Calorie Range: 150g of shredded chicken breast contains approximately 226-248 calories, while thigh meat contains about 236-269 calories.
Protein Powerhouse: This serving size provides a significant amount of protein, typically between 43g and 47g for chicken breast.
Fat Content Matters: The primary difference in calories between cuts is the fat content; thigh meat is fattier than breast meat.
Preparation is Key: Cooking methods like boiling, poaching, or baking are ideal for a low-calorie outcome. Avoid excessive oils and high-fat sauces.
Skin-Off is Leaner: Always use skinless chicken for a lower fat and calorie meal option.
Zero Carbs: Plain shredded chicken contains zero carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
Versatile and Healthy: Shredded chicken is a highly versatile ingredient that can be used in many healthy recipes, including salads, tacos, and soups.

Understanding the Calorie Count in 150g Shredded Chicken

The precise number of calories in a 150g (approximately 1 cup) serving of shredded chicken largely depends on which part of the chicken is used (breast or thigh) and how it is prepared. Chicken breast is significantly leaner than chicken thigh meat.

Calorie Breakdown by Chicken Cut (per 150g, cooked, skinless)


Chicken Cut	Approximate Calories	Protein (g)	Fat (g)	Source
Chicken Breast	226 - 248 calories	43 - 47g	5g
Chicken Thigh	236 - 269 calories	~30g	~12g

As the table shows, 150g of shredded chicken breast typically contains fewer calories than the same amount of shredded chicken thigh due to its lower fat content. The fat content in chicken thigh meat provides more calories per gram (9 calories per gram) compared to protein or carbohydrates (4 calories per gram).

Factors That Influence the Final Calorie Count

While the cut is the primary factor, other elements can alter the nutritional values of shredded chicken:

Cooking Method: Boiling or stewing the chicken (often used for shredding) requires minimal to no added fat, keeping the calorie count low. Roasting or baking is also a lean option. Frying or cooking with excessive oil, butter, or in pre-packaged sauces significantly increases the fat and, consequently, the calorie content.
Skin On vs. Skin Off: The skin is where most of the chicken's fat resides. Cooking with the skin on and consuming it adds a substantial amount of calories and fat. Skinless chicken is the leaner choice.
Added Ingredients (Sauces, Marinades): Be mindful of what is added after shredding. Sauces like barbecue, teriyaki, or creamy dressings can add hidden sugars, fats, and sodium, which quickly increase the overall calorie total of a meal.
Sodium Content: Sodium levels can vary widely in commercially prepared or pre-shredded chicken due to brining or added seasonings. Always check the nutrition label for sodium information.

How to Prepare Healthy Shredded Chicken

To ensure shredded chicken is a healthy, low-calorie protein source, follow these best practices:

Choose Skinless, Boneless Cuts: Start with skinless, boneless chicken breast for the leanest base.
Opt for Low-Fat Cooking Methods: Boil, poach, bake, or slow cook the chicken with minimal added fats.
Season with Herbs and Spices: Use a variety of herbs, spices, lemon juice, or vinegar for flavor instead of high-calorie sauces or oils.
Shred While Warm: Chicken is easier to shred when it's still warm after cooking. Use two forks or a hand mixer for efficient shredding.

Macronutrient Breakdown

For a standard 150g serving of cooked, skinless chicken breast, the following general macronutrient profile can be expected:

Calories: ~240 kcal
Protein: ~45g
Fat: ~5g
Carbohydrates: 0g

This makes shredded chicken an excellent option for high-protein diets, muscle building, and weight management.

Conclusion

In summary, 150g of shredded chicken breast contains approximately 226 to 248 calories, while the same amount of shredded chicken thigh has a slightly higher count of around 236 to 269 calories. The key to maintaining a low-calorie meal is selecting skinless meat and avoiding high-fat cooking methods and heavy sauces. Shredded chicken offers a highly versatile and protein-rich foundation for numerous healthy meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 150g serving of cooked, skinless shredded chicken breast typically contains between 226 and 248 calories, depending on the exact preparation method and leanness.

Yes, shredded chicken is an excellent source of protein. A 150g serving of chicken breast can provide as much as 47 grams of protein, which is vital for muscle maintenance and growth.

Yes, the cooking method significantly impacts the calorie count. Boiling or steaming adds no extra calories, whereas frying or roasting with oil, butter, or heavy sauces will increase the fat and calorie content.

For 150g, chicken thigh meat (skinless) has slightly more calories (around 236-269 kcal) compared to chicken breast (226-248 kcal), as thighs have a higher fat content.

Absolutely. Plain, shredded chicken is naturally carbohydrate-free, making it a perfect protein component for low-carb, keto, and high-protein diets.

A 150g serving of cooked, skinless chicken breast typically has a very low fat content, around 5 grams in total.

They can be. Many commercial products add sodium, marinades, or other ingredients that can increase the calorie, fat, and sodium count compared to homemade plain shredded chicken. Always read the nutrition label.