How many calories are in 200g of cooked chicken?

October 30, 2025 •

4 min read

The calorie count for 200g of cooked chicken can vary dramatically, with lean chicken breast potentially having around 330 calories and fattier thighs with skin closer to 464 calories. This significant difference is influenced by the specific cut of meat, whether the skin is included, and the cooking method used. Knowing these details is crucial for accurate calorie counting and achieving your dietary goals.

Quick Summary

The calories in 200g of cooked chicken depend heavily on the cut and cooking method. Lean breast meat is lower in calories, while thighs with skin are higher due to fat content. Frying adds substantial calories compared to grilling or baking. Careful consideration of preparation is vital for diet management.

Key Points

Cut of Meat Varies Calories: The calorie count for 200g of cooked chicken is not static; it differs significantly based on the cut, with lean breast meat being the lowest and fattier thigh meat being higher.
Skinless Breast is Leanest: A 200g portion of cooked, skinless chicken breast provides approximately 330 calories and is packed with protein, making it ideal for low-calorie diets.
Thigh Meat is Higher in Calories: Due to its higher fat content, a 200g serving of roasted skinless chicken thigh has around 358 calories, while a serving with the skin on can exceed 460 calories.
Cooking Method is Crucial: Frying chicken in oil adds substantial calories, whereas methods like grilling, baking, or poaching keep the calorie count low.
Cooking Shrinks Chicken: The weight of chicken decreases during cooking as water is lost, meaning 200g of cooked chicken comes from a heavier raw portion.
Nutrient-Dense Protein Source: Regardless of the cut, chicken provides high-quality protein, essential B vitamins, and minerals like selenium, contributing to satiety and muscle health.

Calorie Breakdown by Chicken Cut for a 200g Serving

When it comes to understanding the calorie content of cooked chicken, the cut of meat is the most important factor. Different parts of the chicken naturally contain varying amounts of fat, which directly impacts the number of calories. A 200g portion can have a wide range of caloric values, making it essential to identify what you're eating for accurate nutritional tracking.

200g Cooked Chicken Breast (Skinless)

A 200g serving of cooked, skinless, boneless chicken breast is the leanest option and therefore contains the fewest calories. According to nutritional data, this portion typically provides approximately 330 calories and around 62 grams of protein. This high protein-to-calorie ratio makes it a favorite for those aiming to lose weight or build muscle. The protein helps you feel full and satisfied, while the low-fat content keeps the calorie count down.

200g Cooked Chicken Thigh (Skinless)

Chicken thighs are naturally fattier than breast meat, which is why many find them more flavorful and juicy. A 200g portion of roasted, skinless chicken thigh contains approximately 358 calories. While the calorie count is slightly higher than breast meat, it still provides a solid amount of protein at about 50 grams, along with a richer taste.

200g Cooked Chicken Thigh with Skin

For those who prefer chicken thigh with the skin on, the calorie count increases significantly. A 200g serving of roasted thigh with skin on is a much higher-calorie option, coming in at approximately 464 calories. This is due to the high fat content found in the skin, with nearly 60% of the calories coming from fat.

The Impact of Cooking Method on Calories

The way you cook your chicken can have a major effect on the final calorie total, even with the same cut of meat. Adding oil, sauces, or breading can quickly turn a lean protein source into a high-calorie meal.

Lean Cooking Methods

Grilling or Baking: These methods require little to no added fat and allow excess fat to drip away, minimizing additional calories. A 200g portion of grilled chicken breast will have close to its base calorie count.
Poaching or Boiling: Cooking chicken in water or broth is another excellent way to keep calories low. This method is best for shredded chicken in salads or soups.

High-Calorie Cooking Methods

Frying (e.g., deep-frying, pan-frying): Frying chicken, especially when breaded, causes the meat to absorb a significant amount of oil, substantially increasing the calorie and fat content. A 200g portion of fried breast will have more calories than a roasted one.
Sauces and Glazes: Many sauces, glazes, and marinades contain high levels of sugar, fat, or both. For example, a sticky barbecue sauce can add a considerable number of extra calories to an otherwise healthy piece of chicken.

Comparison of 200g Cooked Chicken Calories


Chicken Cut	Skin Condition	Cooking Method	Approximate Calories (200g)	Notes
Chicken Breast	Skinless	Grilled/Baked	~330 kcal	Leanest option, highest protein
Chicken Breast	With Skin	Roasted	~386 kcal	Higher fat and calories from skin
Chicken Thigh	Skinless	Roasted	~358 kcal	Slightly more fat than breast
Chicken Thigh	With Skin	Roasted	~464 kcal	Substantially higher fat and calories
Chicken Leg	Skinless (Meat Only)	Stewed	~370 kcal	Nutritious dark meat option
Chicken Leg	With Skin	Roasted	~368 kcal	Higher fat content with skin
Chicken, All Meat	Meat Only	Fried	~438 kcal	Significantly higher calories due to frying

Nutritional Benefits of a 200g Chicken Serving

Beyond just calories, a 200g portion of chicken offers a wealth of nutritional benefits, especially as a source of high-quality protein. Eating a high-protein meal can be beneficial for weight management as it promotes satiety, helping to reduce overall calorie intake. Chicken is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (B6, B12), niacin, selenium, and phosphorus, all of which are vital for overall health and bodily functions. This makes it a versatile and healthy component of a balanced diet.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Chicken Cut for Your Goals

The answer to "how many calories are in 200g of cooked chicken?" is not a single number but a spectrum, ranging from approximately 330 to over 450 calories depending on the cut and preparation. For those focusing on weight loss or lean muscle development, a skinless chicken breast cooked via baking or grilling is the most calorie-efficient option. If flavor and juiciness are a priority, and your calorie budget allows, a chicken thigh is a suitable choice, keeping in mind the additional calories, especially when including the skin. Ultimately, understanding the variables involved empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your specific nutritional goals.

For more information on protein and healthy eating, you can visit the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, 200g of cooked chicken has more calories than 200g of raw chicken of the same cut. This is because cooking removes water content, concentrating the remaining calories and nutrients in a smaller volume.

The protein content varies by cut. A 200g serving of cooked, skinless chicken breast offers approximately 62 grams of protein, while a 200g skinless thigh has around 50 grams.

Chicken thigh is higher in calories primarily because it contains more fat than chicken breast. This higher fat content also contributes to its richer flavor and moisture.

While it's a generous portion, especially for breast meat, some nutritional guidelines suggest a smaller serving size of around 100g. However, 200g is a common portion for a main meal, particularly for those with higher protein needs like athletes.

To reduce calories, choose lean cuts like skinless breast, opt for cooking methods like grilling or baking instead of frying, and use low-calorie seasonings instead of high-fat sauces or breading.

Yes, significantly. Calorie counts can increase dramatically with the addition of creamy or sugar-heavy sauces. Stick to herbs, spices, and a small amount of healthy oil to minimize extra calories.

Yes, particularly lean cuts like skinless chicken breast. Its high protein content promotes feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight management by helping to control overall food intake.