How many calories are in chicos? A guide to the fruit, corn, and candy

January 1, 2026 •

4 min read

Over one million people search for food calorie information every day, but the answer to "How many calories are in chicos?" is surprisingly complex, as the term refers to at least three very different food items: a fruit, a type of dried corn, and a confectionery. This variation makes specifying the correct calorie count essential for anyone tracking their nutritional intake.

Quick Summary

The term 'chicos' refers to multiple foods, including a low-calorie fruit, a type of dried corn, and a sugary candy. The calorie and nutrient content differ drastically between each item, requiring clarification to determine accurate nutritional value.

Key Points

Chico Fruit Calories: A 100g serving of chico (sapodilla) fruit contains approximately 83 calories, rich in fiber and vitamins.
Allens Chicos Candy Calories: A single 20g serving of Allens Chicos candy has 69 calories, primarily from sugar.
Dried Chicos (Corn) Calories: Calorie content for dried corn chicos varies, but they are a concentrated source of carbohydrates, with about 120 calories per 1/4 cup.
Nutritional Differences: The fruit is a whole food with health benefits, while the candy is a sugary treat with little nutritional value.
Clarify First: When asked about the calories, specify whether the question is about the fruit, dried corn, or candy to provide an accurate answer.

The Confusing Case of "Chicos": A Culinary Breakdown

In culinary discussions, the word "chicos" can be a source of confusion because it is not tied to a single, universal food item. To provide an accurate calorie count and nutritional context, it is necessary to identify which item is being discussed. This article will break down the three most common items referred to as "chicos" to provide clarity and comprehensive nutritional data.

Chico Fruit (Sapodilla): A Naturally Sweet Treat

Originating from Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, the chico fruit, also known as sapodilla, is a tropical fruit with a sweet, malty flavor. It is important to note the nutritional content for this natural, unprocessed item first, as it differs the most from the other two "chicos."

According to USDA data cited by Frontiers in Nutrition, a 100-gram serving of chico fruit contains approximately 83 calories. For context, a single medium-sized fruit typically yields around 40 calories. Beyond its caloric content, the chico fruit is a nutrient-dense food. Its nutritional profile includes:

Dietary fiber: Around 5.3 grams per 100g, beneficial for digestive health.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 20 grams per 100g, providing natural energy.
Vitamins and Minerals: A good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

This makes the chico fruit a healthy and naturally low-calorie option, rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Its sweetness can satisfy cravings without the added sugars found in many processed snacks.

Chicos (Dried Corn): A Southwestern Tradition

In the American Southwest, particularly in New Mexico, "chicos" refers to a culinary tradition of dried corn kernels. These are field corn kernels that have been traditionally roasted and then dried, resulting in a small, wrinkled, and sometimes dark-colored kernel. They are often rehydrated and cooked, most notably in stews with beans.

Unlike the consistent data for the fruit or packaged candy, the calorie count for dried corn chicos is more variable. It depends heavily on the quantity used and the preparation method. A 1/4 cup (approximately 32 grams) of dried corn kernels can contain roughly 120 calories, but this can fluctuate based on the specific variety and how they are cooked. Since dried corn is a concentrated form of the vegetable, its calories are higher per serving than fresh corn. It provides a source of sustained energy and complex carbohydrates.

Nutritional Information for Chicos (Dried Corn):

High in fiber and carbohydrates.
Provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals.
The calorie density is significantly higher than fresh corn due to the removal of water.

Allens Chicos (Candy): A Sweet Confection

Finally, for those with a sweet tooth in certain regions, "Chicos" refers to a type of candy produced by Allens, an Australian confectionery company. These are often small, dark-colored, licorice-like sweets.

As a processed candy, its nutritional profile is vastly different from its natural namesakes. According to nutritional information, a 20-gram serving of Allens Chicos contains 69 calories. The primary source of these calories is sugar, with minimal to no fiber, vitamins, or minerals.

Comparing the Calories: A Closer Look

To highlight the dramatic differences between these foods, here is a comparison table outlining their core nutritional values based on standard serving sizes.


Feature	Chico Fruit (Sapodilla)	Chicos (Dried Corn)	Allens Chicos (Candy)
Serving Size	100g (Approx. 1-2 fruit)	1/4 cup (Approx. 32g)	20g (Standard serving)
Approx. Calories	83 kcal	120 kcal (Based on similar dried corn)	69 kcal
Carbohydrates	20g	~25-27g	~16g
Dietary Fiber	5.3g	High, but varies	Minimal
Sugar Content	Naturally occurring sugars	Low, primarily complex carbs	High in added sugars
Primary Function	Nutrient-rich whole food	Concentrated energy source	Confectionery treat

Making an Informed Choice

Understanding the vast difference in caloric and nutritional profiles is key to making informed dietary choices. While the chico fruit is a healthy, fiber-rich option, the candy is a high-sugar, low-nutrient treat. Dried corn chicos offer a concentrated form of energy, but their calorie content per portion is significantly higher due to the drying process. Ultimately, the health impact depends on which "chicos" you are consuming and in what quantity. An excellent resource for general nutritional information is the FDA's guide on reading nutrition labels, which helps differentiate between various food products.

Conclusion

When someone asks, "How many calories are in chicos?" the first step is always to clarify which type of food they mean. The answer could range from a nutritious tropical fruit providing roughly 83 calories per 100g to a small serving of candy at 69 calories, or dried corn that is energy-dense. By distinguishing between these items, individuals can accurately assess their caloric intake and make better dietary decisions based on their health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, chico fruit, or sapodilla, is a healthy snack option. It is low in calories, high in dietary fiber, and contains beneficial vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.

Chico fruit (or chicozapote) is simply another name for chiku or sapodilla fruit. The different names are used in various regions, but they refer to the same sweet, brown-skinned fruit.

As a candy, Allens Chicos provide energy primarily from sugar, with a 20g serving containing 69 calories. They offer minimal, if any, vitamins, minerals, or fiber.

Dried corn chicos are traditionally rehydrated and cooked until tender, often used in stews with beans. The long cooking process allows the kernels to swell back up and absorb flavors.

Yes, on a per-gram basis, dried corn is more caloric than fresh corn. This is because the drying process removes the water, concentrating the carbohydrates and calories.

Dried chicos are a regional specialty, most commonly found in the American Southwest, particularly in New Mexico. They can be found in specialty stores or online retailers that focus on traditional Southwestern cuisine.

You can distinguish between them by their appearance: chico fruit is a brown-skinned tropical fruit, dried corn chicos are small, wrinkled kernels, and Allens Chicos are a small, dark confectionery often found in candy bags.