How Many Calories in 100g of Chapati? A Comprehensive Guide

November 24, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, 100 grams of plain, cooked whole wheat chapati contains approximately 264-300 calories. This guide explains the factors influencing the final calorie count and provides a comprehensive nutritional breakdown for a 100g portion of chapati.

Quick Summary

Examine the caloric content of a 100g serving of chapati, exploring the impact of different flours, cooking methods, and added fats on its overall nutritional value.

Key Points

Standard Calorie Range: A 100g serving of plain, cooked whole wheat chapati typically contains between 264 and 300 calories.
Factors Impacting Calories: The total calorie count is significantly influenced by the type of flour (whole wheat vs. multigrain), size, thickness, and added fat like ghee.
Ghee Adds Calories: Adding just one teaspoon of ghee to a chapati can increase its caloric value by approximately 45 calories.
High in Fiber: Whole wheat chapati is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, benefiting weight management.
Healthier Alternatives: Substituting whole wheat flour with millet-based flours like ragi or bajra can offer a lower-calorie, nutrient-dense option.
Preparation Matters: For the lowest calorie option, dry-roast chapatis without any oil or fat after cooking.
Portion Control is Key: For weight loss, focus on moderate portion sizes and pair chapatis with protein and vegetable-rich side dishes for a balanced meal.

The Calorie Breakdown for 100g of Chapati

For those managing their diet, knowing the precise calorie count of staple foods is crucial. A 100g serving of a standard whole wheat chapati, a common Indian flatbread, provides roughly 264 to 300 calories. This calorie figure can fluctuate based on the exact recipe, flour type, and cooking method. For instance, commercially prepared versions may vary slightly from homemade ones. The macronutrient composition contributes to this energy value, with a significant portion coming from carbohydrates.

Nutritional Profile of 100g Whole Wheat Chapati

Beyond just the energy content, a 100g portion of chapati offers other vital nutrients.

Carbohydrates: Approximately 46-55 grams, serving as the body's primary energy source.
Protein: Around 7-11 grams, essential for tissue repair and muscle maintenance.
Dietary Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
Fats: Can range from 1 to 9 grams, depending heavily on added ingredients like ghee.
Minerals and Vitamins: Chapati is a source of essential micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and certain B vitamins.

Factors Influencing Chapati's Calorie Count

Several variables can cause the calorie count of a chapati to deviate from the standard 100g estimate.

Type of Flour: The flour used is a major factor. Whole wheat flour is standard, but using multigrain flours or millets like ragi or bajra can alter the nutritional profile and calorie density. Multigrain options often add more fiber and nutrients.
Addition of Fats: Adding ghee or oil to the dough or brushing it on after cooking can significantly increase the calorie total. A single teaspoon of ghee adds around 45 calories. A plain, dry-roasted chapati (phulka) will have a lower calorie count than one slathered in butter.
Size and Thickness: A thicker chapati requires more dough, which naturally means more calories. A smaller, thinner chapati will have a lower count than a larger, thicker one, even if both are made from the same flour.
Cooking Method: Dry roasting on a tawa (griddle) results in the lowest-calorie option, while frying it (like a puri or paratha) drastically increases the fat and calorie content.

Calorie Comparison: Different Chapati Types


Type of Chapati	Approx. Calories per 100g	Notes
Whole Wheat Chapati (Dry)	264-300 kcal	Standard, moderate fiber content.
Whole Wheat with Ghee	350-400 kcal (approx.)	Calorie count increases significantly with added fat.
Multigrain Chapati	Varies, can be lower	Often includes oats, millet, etc., boosting fiber.
Ragi (Finger Millet) Roti	Lower than wheat	A nutrient-dense, lower-calorie alternative.
Jowar (Sorghum) Roti	Varies, but often higher	Generally higher in calories than wheat roti.
Bajra (Pearl Millet) Roti	Lower than wheat	A nutritious, high-fiber, and lower-calorie option.

Chapati in Weight Management and Healthy Eating

Chapati can be an excellent component of a weight-loss diet when consumed mindfully. Its high fiber content, particularly in whole wheat varieties, helps you feel fuller for longer, which can prevent overeating and reduce overall calorie intake. For best results, it is important to control portion sizes and avoid adding excessive oil or ghee during preparation. Pairing your chapati with protein-rich curries, lean meats, or a variety of vegetables also helps create a balanced meal that supports weight management. Opting for multigrain options or flours like ragi and bajra can also increase nutrient intake while managing calories. For those with diabetes, whole wheat chapatis have a moderate glycemic index and high fiber content that can help regulate blood sugar levels, especially when paired with protein and vegetables.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

Ultimately, the calorie count of 100g of chapati can vary, but generally falls in the range of 264-300 calories for a plain, whole wheat version. By paying attention to the flour type, size, and particularly any added fats, you can accurately track your intake. Making small adjustments, such as opting for thinner chapatis or alternative flours, can help you manage your calorie goals effectively while still enjoying this staple food. It remains a nutritious and fiber-rich bread choice when prepared properly and consumed in moderation.

Learn more about healthy eating choices for weight management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, adding ghee to a chapati significantly increases its calorie count. One teaspoon of ghee adds approximately 45 calories, so it's best to use it sparingly if you are monitoring your intake.

A 100g serving of whole wheat chapati contains approximately 46-55 grams of carbohydrates. These complex carbs provide a steady release of energy.

For weight loss, chapati is generally considered a better option than refined white rice because whole wheat chapati has higher fiber and protein content. This helps promote satiety and better digestion.

Millets like bajra (pearl millet) or quinoa flour are often lower in calories than standard whole wheat flour, and are therefore good alternatives for low-calorie chapatis.

Yes, people with diabetes can eat whole wheat chapati in moderation. Its high fiber content helps manage blood sugar levels, especially when paired with protein and vegetables.

A larger or thicker chapati will have more calories than a smaller or thinner one, as it requires more dough. Sticking to a consistent, medium size helps with portion control.

Yes, a dry-roasted chapati, or phulka, has fewer calories than a standard chapati, as it contains no added oil or ghee during preparation.