Just Bare is a popular brand known for its high-quality chicken products, from fresh, unprocessed cuts to convenient, frozen, and fully-cooked options. For anyone watching their carbohydrate intake, understanding the nutritional profile of each specific product is essential. The key takeaway is simple: unprocessed Just Bare chicken contains zero carbs, while all lightly breaded varieties contain a significant carb count due to the flour-based coating.
Unbreaded Just Bare Chicken: The Zero-Carb Option
If your goal is to consume a minimal amount of carbohydrates, the fresh, unbreaded products from Just Bare are the best choice. Their boneless, skinless chicken breasts and fillets are simply that—chicken. As a pure protein source, they are inherently free of carbohydrates and perfect for keto, paleo, and other low-carb diets. These products are also a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as they are naturally gluten-free.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Fillets: Contains 0g of total carbohydrates per serving, with 24g of protein.
- Fresh Chicken Breast Pieces: Also contains 0g of total carbs per serving.
When purchasing fresh chicken, it is always wise to double-check the packaging to ensure no marinades or seasonings have been added, as these can sometimes contain sugars or other ingredients that introduce carbs.
Lightly Breaded Just Bare Chicken: The Higher-Carb Option
Just Bare’s frozen, fully-cooked chicken is a different story. These products are popular for their convenience and flavor but are coated in a flour-based breading that adds carbohydrates. The amount of carbs can vary slightly depending on the specific cut, so it is important to review the label for each product you buy.
- Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks / Bites: Contain approximately 9g of total carbohydrates per 3-ounce serving.
- Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips: Provide around 11g of total carbohydrates per serving.
- Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Original Fillets: These have a slightly higher carb count, with about 13-14g of total carbohydrates per serving.
For those on a strict low-carb diet, these products may not be suitable. However, for those with more lenient dietary goals, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal plan.
Comparison Table: Just Bare Chicken Carbohydrate Content
| Product Type | Serving Size | Total Carbs (approx.) | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unbreaded Boneless Skinless Fillets | 3 oz (84g) | 0g | Keto, Paleo, low-carb, gluten-free diets | Unprocessed, fresh product |
| Lightly Breaded Bites / Chunks | 3 oz (84g) | 9g | Moderation, balanced diets | Contains gluten, higher calories |
| Lightly Breaded Strips | Varies (check label) | 11g | Moderation, balanced diets | Contains gluten, higher calories |
| Lightly Breaded Original Fillets | 3.5 oz (98g) | 13-14g | Moderation, balanced diets | Contains gluten, highest carb count |
Making the Right Choice for Your Diet
Whether you opt for the zero-carb fresh chicken or the higher-carb breaded variety depends entirely on your dietary goals. For strict keto or carb-restrictive lifestyles, the fresh options are the clear winner. They offer a clean source of protein without any added sugars or starches. The breaded products, while delicious and convenient, are better suited for those who can incorporate a moderate amount of carbohydrates into their daily macros.
Tips for Navigating the Carb Count
- Read the Label: The most reliable way to know the carb count is to check the nutritional information printed on the package. The exact serving size and carbohydrate grams are always listed there.
- Product Name Matters: Pay close attention to the product name. "Just Bare Chicken Breast Fillets" (fresh) is very different from "Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Bites" (frozen).
- Cross-Contamination Awareness: While fresh chicken is naturally gluten-free, the breaded versions contain wheat and are not safe for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities.
- Meal Planning: If you want the convenience of frozen chicken, you can still fit it into a low-carb lifestyle by reducing carbs in other parts of your meal. For example, serve the breaded bites with a large green salad instead of rice or pasta.
Ultimately, Just Bare offers a range of chicken products to fit various dietary needs. By understanding the difference between their fresh and breaded lines, you can make informed choices to align with your health and wellness goals. Always consult the official product nutrition facts for the most accurate information. For more detailed nutrition breakdowns, you can refer to the Just Bare website and other reliable nutrition databases like Nutritionix.
Conclusion
The number of carbs in Just Bare chicken depends entirely on the product type. Fresh, unbreaded chicken contains zero carbohydrates and is an excellent choice for low-carb diets. In contrast, the popular lightly breaded frozen products have a notable carb count, ranging from approximately 9g to 14g per serving, due to their flour-based coating. Careful label reading is key to making the best choice for your dietary needs.
