How many calories are in one fish and chips?

November 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), a standard portion of fish and chips from a chippy can contain over 1,000 calories, depending on the size and oil used. This guide explores exactly how many calories are in one fish and chips, dissecting the factors that influence the final number, from cooking method to portion size.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for fish and chips varies widely, heavily influenced by portion size, fish type, batter, and cooking oil. A typical takeaway serving can exceed 800 calories, with large portions reaching significantly higher totals. Homemade versions are often lower in calories due to reduced oil use.

Key Points

Average Calorie Count: An average takeaway portion of fish and chips typically contains 800-1,100 calories, though this can vary greatly.
Frying is the Main Culprit: Deep-frying the fish and chips is the biggest contributor to the high calorie and fat content.
Portion Size Matters: Calorie totals escalate significantly with larger portion sizes; a small takeaway meal can be half the calories of a large one.
Healthier Alternatives Exist: Grilled or oven-baked fish, combined with homemade oven chips, can drastically reduce the calorie count.
Condiments Add Up: Popular sauces like tartar, curry, and gravy contribute extra calories that are often overlooked.
Homemade Offers Control: Preparing the meal at home gives you the most control over ingredients, oil, and cooking method for a healthier result.

Calorie Breakdown of a Standard Fish and Chips

The total number of calories in a serving of fish and chips is not a single, fixed figure. It is the sum of its parts—the fish, the batter, the chips, and any accompanying sauces. The biggest variables are the cooking method and portion size. For instance, a medium portion from a UK chip shop is cited around 861 calories, while a large can be as high as 1,591 calories. The deep-frying process, particularly with high-fat batter, contributes the most significant amount of calories.

Factors Influencing the Calorie Count

Several key elements determine the final calorie total of your meal. Understanding these can help you make more informed decisions.

Type of Fish: The type of fish used has a minor impact on the total calories compared to the cooking method. Lean white fish like cod and haddock are lower in calories per 100g compared to oilier fish like salmon, but the way they are cooked changes everything.
Portion Size: This is arguably the most significant factor. A small fish and chips meal can have half the calories of a large one. The calorie count for chips alone can range from 295 for a small portion to 1,177 for an extra-large takeaway size.
Cooking Method: Frying in beef dripping or palm oil adds considerably more calories and saturated fat compared to rapeseed oil or healthier homemade alternatives. A grilled or baked fish will have a fraction of the calories of its deep-fried counterpart.
Batter vs. Breadcrumbs: The thickness and composition of the batter affect how much oil is absorbed during frying. Lighter, thinner batters or a simple breadcrumb coating will be less calorific than thick, dense batters.
Added Condiments: Sauces like tartar sauce, curry sauce, and gravy can add a surprising number of extra calories. For example, two tablespoons of tartar sauce can add around 63 calories, while curry sauce can add about 93 calories.

Takeaway vs. Homemade Calorie Comparison

One of the biggest distinctions in calorie counting for this classic meal is whether it's from a takeaway shop or made at home. Takeaways are typically higher in calories due to deep-frying, while homemade versions offer much more control over ingredients and cooking methods.


Item	Portion	Takeaway (Deep-fried)	Homemade (Oven-baked)
Fish (Cod/Haddock)	1 Medium Fillet	~400-500 kcal	~200-250 kcal
Chips	1 Medium Portion	~500-600 kcal	~300-400 kcal
Mushy Peas	1 Portion	~97 kcal	~97 kcal
Tartar Sauce	2 Tbsp	~63 kcal	~63 kcal
Total (Approximate)	1 Medium Meal	~1,060-1,260 kcal	~660-810 kcal

Note: Calorie counts are approximations and can vary based on specific preparation.

Tips for a Healthier Fish and Chips Experience

If you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy fish and chips, consider these healthier alternatives and tips:

Go for Grilled Fish: Ask if the fish can be grilled instead of battered and deep-fried. The difference can save you hundreds of calories.
Order a Smaller Portion: Opt for a smaller portion of both fish and chips to significantly reduce the overall calorie count.
Choose Healthier Sides: Skip the calorific sauces. Add a side of mushy peas or a salad instead for added fiber and nutrients without the extra fat.
Try Oven-Baked: Make your own at home using an oven-baked fish recipe and homemade oven chips or sweet potato fries. This gives you full control over the fat content.
Use Air-Frying: An air fryer can create a crispy texture with a fraction of the oil used in deep-frying, offering a guilt-free indulgence.

The Health Implications of High-Calorie Takeaways

While an occasional treat is fine, regularly consuming high-calorie takeaway meals can have health consequences. Deep-fried foods, particularly those prepared with cheaper oils, are often high in saturated and trans fats. These fats can raise bad cholesterol levels, increase the risk of heart disease, and contribute to weight gain. However, some fish and chip shops are evolving, offering healthier alternatives and using sustainably sourced, quality ingredients, which can make it a more balanced choice than other fast-food options.

For more information on the impact of fried foods on heart health, you can consult resources like the British Heart Foundation.

Conclusion

The calorie content of one fish and chips varies significantly, ranging from approximately 650 to over 1,500 calories depending on preparation and portion size. While a deep-fried takeaway portion is typically high in calories and fat, opting for smaller sizes, grilled fish, and healthier sides can dramatically lower the total. Making fish and chips at home using baking or air-frying methods offers the greatest control over the ingredients and calorie count, transforming it from a high-calorie treat into a more balanced meal. Understanding the specific components that contribute to the final calorie count is key to enjoying this classic dish while staying mindful of your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

A small portion of fish and chips from a takeaway can be around 600-700 calories, but this is highly dependent on the shop, the size of the fish, and how it is cooked.

Grilled fish is significantly healthier and lower in calories than battered, deep-fried fish. Grilling uses minimal fat and avoids the added calories and oil absorption from the batter.

To make fish and chips less fattening, opt for a smaller portion, choose grilled fish, add healthy sides like mushy peas, and consider making a baked or air-fried version at home.

There is a very small difference in the calories of raw cod and haddock, as both are lean white fish. The cooking method, especially deep-frying, far outweighs any natural calorie difference.

Yes, the type of cooking oil can affect the calorie count and fat profile. Some takeaways use beef dripping, which adds a high amount of saturated fat, while others use vegetable oils like rapeseed oil, which result in fewer saturated fats.

Yes, mushy peas are a relatively healthy and low-fat addition to fish and chips, providing fiber and nutrients without a significant number of extra calories.

Homemade fish and chips generally contain fewer calories because you can control the amount of oil used. Baking or air-frying at home uses much less fat than a commercial deep fryer.