How Many Calories Are in 5 oz of Rotisserie Chicken?

October 27, 2025 •

3 min read

A 5 oz serving of rotisserie chicken can range from approximately 200 to over 300 calories, a significant difference influenced primarily by the type of meat and whether the skin is consumed. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and versatile protein source, but understanding its nutritional breakdown is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a 5 oz portion of rotisserie chicken varies depending on the specific cut and whether or not the skin is eaten. Lean white meat has fewer calories than fatty dark meat, and removing the skin dramatically reduces the total fat and calories. Sodium content can also be a key factor in pre-packaged store-bought options.

Key Points

Calorie Variation: A 5 oz portion of rotisserie chicken can range from roughly 200 to over 300 calories, primarily depending on the cut and skin.
Skin Removal: The most effective way to lower the calorie and fat content of your serving is to remove the skin.
White vs. Dark Meat: White meat (breast) is leaner and lower in calories, while dark meat (thigh/leg) is higher in fat and calories.
Sodium Content: Many store-bought rotisserie chickens are high in sodium due to added solutions, so it's important to check the nutrition facts or choose plain options if you are monitoring sodium intake.
High-Quality Protein: Despite the calorie variations, rotisserie chicken is consistently a strong source of high-quality protein, which is vital for building and maintaining muscle.

Rotisserie chicken is a dinner-time hero for many, offering a quick, flavorful protein source without the hassle of cooking from scratch. However, for those monitoring their caloric intake, the calorie count isn't a single, fixed number. The total calories in a 5 oz serving can differ widely based on which part of the chicken you're eating and whether you include the crispy, seasoned skin. The key factors influencing the total are the meat's fat content and the presence of the skin, which packs a higher calorie density due to its fat content.

Calorie and Macronutrient Breakdown

To give you a precise idea, let's break down the calorie count for 5 oz (approx. 142g) based on the specific cut and preparation. White meat, like the chicken breast, is naturally leaner, while dark meat from the thighs and legs contains more fat. This distinction is crucial for calorie counting.

The Impact of Meat Type and Skin on Calories

White Meat (Breast): The leanest option, yielding the lowest number of calories. Without the skin, a 5 oz serving is an excellent choice for those focusing on low-fat, high-protein intake. With the skin, the calorie count increases notably.
Dark Meat (Thigh/Leg): This meat contains more fat, making it more flavorful but also higher in calories. Eating it with the skin further elevates the fat and calorie count, so those on restricted diets might opt for skinless dark meat or a different cut entirely.
The Skin: This is where a large portion of the calories and saturated fat resides. Removing the skin is the easiest and most effective way to cut down the caloric load of your rotisserie chicken meal.

Rotisserie Chicken Nutrition Comparison Table


Cut (5 oz serving)	Calories (Approx.)	Protein (Approx.)	Fat (Approx.)	Sodium (Approx.)
Breast, no skin	203 kcal	40g	5g	Varies
Breast, with skin	248 kcal	37g	12g	Varies
Thigh, no skin	275 kcal	32g	13g	Varies
Thigh, with skin	320 kcal	29g	19g	Varies
Generic (mix), with skin	235-333 kcal	Varies	Varies	Varies

Note: Calorie and macronutrient values are approximations and can vary based on brand, seasonings, and the exact cut. Generic values are based on specific products mentioned in the search results and reflect potential variability.

Beyond the Macronutrients: A Deeper Look

While calories, protein, and fat are important, the overall nutritional profile of rotisserie chicken includes other factors. Store-bought versions, for example, are often injected with a sodium solution to enhance flavor and moisture, significantly increasing the sodium content. This is especially important for individuals with high blood pressure or other sodium-sensitive conditions to monitor. Checking the ingredients list or asking the deli manager can provide clarity on added preservatives and sodium.

Making Healthier Choices

Choosing a rotisserie chicken from a brand that uses fewer additives is one way to improve its health profile. For example, some stores offer plain or organic options with significantly less sodium. Preparing a chicken at home also gives you full control over the ingredients, seasonings, and sodium levels. Furthermore, the way you use the chicken can influence the meal's overall healthiness. Pairing it with nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and whole grains ensures a balanced meal.

### Key Factors for Calorie Counting

Weigh Your Portion: To get an accurate calorie count, use a kitchen scale to measure your 5 oz serving rather than estimating.
Mind the Skin: Remember that removing the skin can drastically reduce the fat and calories per serving.
Consider the Cut: If weight loss is a goal, prioritize the leaner breast meat.
Control Added Ingredients: If you use the chicken in other recipes, account for the calories from sauces, dressings, and other ingredients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a 5 oz serving of rotisserie chicken is a high-protein, convenient option, but the calorie count is not uniform. It ranges from about 200 calories for a skinless breast portion up to 320 calories for a skin-on thigh portion. The biggest controllable factor is removing the skin to save on fat and calories. Additionally, being mindful of the typically high sodium content in pre-made options is important for overall health. By understanding these nutritional nuances, you can easily incorporate rotisserie chicken into a healthy eating plan. For more detailed nutrition facts, consult reliable sources like the USDA Food Composition Database to check the specifics of your chosen cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, eating the skin significantly increases the calorie and fat content of your rotisserie chicken. For example, a 5 oz portion of breast meat with the skin has approximately 45 more calories and much more fat than the skinless version.

Yes, rotisserie chicken can be a healthy meal option, especially when eating the lean, skinless white meat. It is high in protein and can be paired with vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal.

Many grocery stores inject rotisserie chickens with a sodium solution or brine to enhance flavor and moisture. This can result in a single serving containing a significant percentage of the recommended daily sodium intake.

To reduce calories, focus on eating the white meat (breast), remove the skin completely, and serve it with low-calorie, nutrient-dense sides like salads or steamed vegetables.

Yes, the preparation can affect the calorie count. Rotisserie cooking is typically healthier than frying, but seasonings and solutions used in commercial products can add calories and sodium. Cooking at home allows for more control.

A 5 oz serving of skinless rotisserie chicken breast can provide around 40 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of this vital macronutrient.

Rotisserie chicken is generally a healthier option than fried chicken, as it has fewer calories, less fat, and fewer carbohydrates. Fried chicken's breading and oil add a significant amount of extra calories and fat.