How Many Calories Are in 172g of Cooked Chicken Breast?

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition databases, a 172-gram portion of cooked, boneless, and skinless chicken breast contains approximately 284 calories. This makes it an exceptionally lean protein source, ideal for anyone focused on weight management or muscle building.

Quick Summary

A 172g cooked chicken breast contains around 284 calories, with the exact amount varying based on the cooking method and whether the skin is included. The bulk of its energy comes from its high protein content, making it a staple in many healthy diets. Removing the skin and avoiding excessive oil during cooking keeps the calorie count low.

Key Points

284 Calories: 172 grams of cooked, skinless, boneless chicken breast contains approximately 284 calories.
High Protein: This serving provides about 53.4 grams of high-quality protein, essential for muscle health.
Low Fat: The fat content is low, with around 6.2 grams, especially when prepared without the skin.
Cooking Method Matters: Frying or adding rich sauces will significantly increase the calorie count, while baking, grilling, or boiling keeps it lean.
Healthy Choice: Chicken breast is excellent for weight management and muscle building due to its high protein and low-fat profile.

Understanding the Calorie Count for 172g of Cooked Chicken Breast

For those tracking their nutritional intake, knowing the precise calorie content of meals is crucial. A standard 172g serving of cooked chicken breast provides approximately 284 calories. This figure is a reliable estimate for skinless and boneless preparations, as demonstrated by several nutritional data sources. The cooking process concentrates nutrients and alters the final weight, so it's important to use the cooked weight for the most accurate calculation.

Macronutrient Breakdown of 172g Cooked Chicken

Beyond just calories, understanding the macronutrient profile gives a clearer picture of chicken breast's dietary value. For a 172g serving, the composition is primarily protein, with minimal fat and zero carbohydrates.

Protein: Approximately 53.4 grams, which accounts for a large majority of the total calories and makes chicken breast a powerhouse for muscle repair and growth.
Fat: Around 6.2 grams, which is a very low amount for this portion size. This makes it an ideal lean protein choice for weight management.
Carbohydrates: 0 grams, confirming that chicken breast is a naturally carb-free food.

How Cooking Method Influences Calories

The total calorie count for chicken breast can fluctuate depending on how it's prepared. While the meat itself is lean, adding ingredients or certain cooking techniques can significantly increase the final value. Here’s a comparison of common cooking methods.


Cooking Method	Added Calories (Approx.)	Impact on Nutrition	Key Difference
Baking/Roasting	Minimal to low	Adds very few calories if little oil is used.	Preserves leanness; relies on natural juices.
Boiling/Poaching	None	Adds no extra calories.	Results in the lowest possible calorie count.
Grilling	Minimal	Adds very few calories; healthy preparation.	Dry heat cooking, similar to baking.
Frying/Sautéing	High	Adds significant calories and fat from oil.	Calories increase depending on oil amount.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count

The exact number of calories isn't set in stone and can be affected by a few key factors. Being mindful of these can help you better control your intake.

Skin: Keeping the skin on the chicken adds a considerable amount of calories from fat. A skin-on chicken breast will have a significantly higher calorie count than a skinless one.
Added Fats: Cooking with excessive oil, butter, or marinades will increase the caloric density of the dish. For example, sautéing chicken in 2 tablespoons of oil could add over 200 calories.
Sauces and Glazes: High-sugar sauces like barbecue sauce or heavy glazes will introduce extra carbohydrates and calories that were not present in the plain chicken breast.

Health Benefits of Chicken Breast

Beyond its lean profile, chicken breast offers several health benefits that make it a cornerstone of a balanced diet.

Muscle Growth and Maintenance: The high protein content provides the amino acids necessary for repairing and building muscle tissue.
Weight Management: The protein helps increase satiety, making you feel fuller for longer and potentially reducing overall calorie intake.
Rich in Nutrients: It's a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium, which support various bodily functions like metabolism and immune health.

How to Prepare Healthy Chicken Breast

To maximize the nutritional benefits and minimize added calories, consider these preparation tips:

Remove the Skin: Always use skinless chicken breast to avoid excess fat and calories.
Opt for Lean Cooking Methods: Grill, bake, roast, or poach your chicken instead of frying it.
Season with Herbs and Spices: Use low-calorie seasonings like herbs, spices, lemon juice, or garlic powder to add flavor without extra fat or sugar.
Use a Food Thermometer: A food thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature (75°C/165°F), guaranteeing safety without overcooking.

Conclusion

In summary, 172g of cooked, skinless, and boneless chicken breast contains a dependable and manageable calorie count of approximately 284. This makes it a fantastic source of high-quality protein, ideal for those seeking to build muscle or lose weight. By choosing lean cooking methods and being mindful of added ingredients, you can easily incorporate this versatile and healthy meat into a well-rounded and nutritious diet. The precise calorie and nutrient data highlights why chicken breast remains a staple for health-conscious individuals worldwide.

Visit the USDA's FoodData Central for more detailed nutritional information on various foods, including chicken breast.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count for 172g of cooked chicken breast is largely consistent for methods like roasting, baking, or boiling, provided no additional fat is added. The primary change comes from adding oils or cooking with the skin on.

Cooking causes chicken to lose water, which means the weight of a cooked chicken breast will be less than its raw weight. This is why nutritional calculations should be based on the cooked weight, as 172g of cooked chicken is denser in nutrients than 172g of raw chicken.

A 172g serving is often used in nutritional contexts to represent a standard cooked, boneless, and skinless chicken breast. It is approximately a six-ounce portion, which is a common size for a single meal.

A 172g serving of cooked, skinless chicken breast contains approximately 53.4 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of this vital macronutrient.

To reduce calories, cook the chicken breast without the skin and use low-fat methods like grilling or baking. Avoid high-calorie sauces and marinades, opting instead for herbs and spices.

Yes, chicken breast is an excellent food for weight loss. Its high protein content promotes satiety, helping to reduce hunger and control overall calorie intake, while its low-fat nature keeps the total calorie count down.

Besides being a great source of protein, chicken breast also contains important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins like niacin and B6, as well as minerals such as phosphorus and selenium.