Calorie Breakdown of Great Value Chicken Patties
The calorie count for a Walmart chicken patty largely depends on the specific variety purchased under the Great Value brand. The most common varieties are the Fully Cooked Breaded Chicken Breast Patties and the Southern Style Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets. While the breading and cooking process adds a significant portion of the total calories, the underlying chicken content also contributes. This section will break down the calorie information for each type based on available nutritional data.
Great Value Fully Cooked Breaded Chicken Breast Patties
The classic breaded chicken patty is a staple in many freezers. Information from nutritional databases confirms a standard serving contains roughly 190 calories. A breakdown of the macronutrients reveals that the energy is distributed across fat, carbohydrates from the breading, and protein from the chicken. A single patty typically contains 11 grams of fat, 11 grams of carbs, and 12 grams of protein. The preparation method is key here; these are pre-cooked and reheating them in a microwave or oven won't add substantial calories, but frying them in additional oil would significantly increase the count.
Great Value Southern Style Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets
For those who prefer a different flavor and texture, the Southern Style fillets offer a slightly different nutritional profile. These tend to be a bit lower in calories per serving, with around 150 calories per 84-gram piece. The lower calorie count is typically associated with a different breading recipe and possibly a different size or shape. A comparison reveals a lower fat content in this variety, with 6 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbs, and 15 grams of protein, making it a leaner option for those watching their intake.
Factors That Influence Chicken Patty Calories
While the nutritional information on the packaging provides a base, several factors can alter the final calorie count of a prepared chicken patty. These include preparation methods, additional ingredients, and even minor variations in product batches.
- Cooking Method: Reheating in a conventional oven or air fryer adds zero calories, whereas pan-frying in oil or butter can add 50-100 calories or more per patty. For example, a tablespoon of vegetable oil adds over 100 calories alone.
- Toppings and Condiments: What you put on the patty matters. A slice of cheese, mayonnaise, or a creamy sauce can drastically increase the calorie count. A single slice of American cheese can add 60-70 calories, and a tablespoon of mayonnaise adds around 90-100 calories.
- Bun or Bread: Most people don't eat a patty on its own. The addition of a hamburger bun or slices of bread will add another 100-200 calories, depending on the type and size.
Comparison of Great Value Chicken Patty Options
To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparison of two popular Great Value chicken patty options and how they stack up against a common fast-food alternative.
| Item | Calories (per patty) | Total Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Value Fully Cooked Breaded Chicken Patty | ~190 | 11 | 12 | 460 |
| Great Value Southern Style Fillet | ~150 | 6 | 15 | 610 |
| Fast Food Chain Patty | 300-450+ | 15-25+ | 15-25+ | 500-800+ |
Tips for Healthier Chicken Patty Preparation
For those who are calorie-conscious, there are several ways to enjoy a Walmart chicken patty while keeping the total count down. Being mindful of your additions can make a significant difference.
- Baking or Air Frying: This is the best method to avoid adding extra oil and fat during cooking. It produces a crispy texture without the need for deep frying.
- Use Low-Calorie Condiments: Opt for mustard or a light hot sauce instead of calorie-dense mayonnaise or creamy dressings. A little bit of ketchup or a low-sugar BBQ sauce can also be a good choice.
- Choose a Lighter Base: Instead of a traditional hamburger bun, consider serving the patty in a lettuce wrap, on top of a salad, or with a low-carb tortilla. This eliminates a substantial amount of carbohydrates and calories.
- Bulk with Veggies: Add toppings like fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to increase the volume and nutritional value of your meal without adding many calories. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables instead of fries.
Great Value Product Variations
Beyond the standard breaded patties, Great Value also offers other options like spicy chicken patties and boneless skinless chicken breasts. The spicy version contains around 180 calories per piece, a slight variation from the original. A non-breaded chicken breast, on the other hand, is much lower in calories and fat, but is a different product entirely. When shopping, always check the specific product's nutrition label to get the most accurate information for your meal planning.
Conclusion
To answer the question, a standard Great Value Fully Cooked Breaded Chicken Breast Patty from Walmart typically contains about 190 calories. However, a different version like the Southern Style fillet has closer to 150 calories. The total calorie count is heavily dependent on how the patty is prepared and what it's served with. By using healthier cooking methods and low-calorie additions, you can enjoy this convenient frozen food while staying within your dietary goals. For the most precise information, always consult the nutritional label on the specific packaging of the Great Value product you purchase, as formulations can occasionally change. The official Walmart site can provide the most current details.
