How Much Carbs Are in 2 Besan Chilla? A Comprehensive Nutritional Guide

November 29, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutrition data, a single besan chilla can contain anywhere from 11g to over 30g of carbohydrates, meaning the amount of carbs in 2 besan chilla can vary significantly based on preparation and portion size. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the factors influencing this carbohydrate count.

Quick Summary

The total carbohydrate content for two besan chillas varies widely depending on size and recipe. Factors like the amount of besan, oil, and added vegetables directly influence the final nutritional value.

Key Points

Variable Carb Count: The carb content for 2 besan chillas can range from approximately 14g to over 60g, depending on serving size and ingredients.
Recipe Matters: Recipes with more besan and fewer vegetables result in a higher carbohydrate load.
Complex Carbohydrates: The carbs in besan chilla come from besan (chickpea flour), a source of complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, beneficial for steady energy.
Fiber is Key: Besan is high in dietary fiber, which, while counted in total carbs, aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar.
Add Veggies: Increasing the amount of vegetables like onions, spinach, and bell peppers can lower the overall carb density of the meal.
Protein Power: Adding grated paneer or tofu can boost the protein content and create a more balanced and filling chilla.

Demystifying the Carb Count in Besan Chilla

Determining the precise carbohydrate content of two besan chillas is challenging because there is no single standard recipe or serving size. As highlighted by various sources, the numbers can differ greatly, often due to how the chilla is prepared and the size of the final product. To get a clear picture, it’s essential to consider the variables that impact the nutritional profile.

For instance, sources like BeBodywise suggest one standard chilla might contain around 22g of carbohydrates, leading to approximately 44g for two. In contrast, Tarla Dalal's recipe estimates one chilla to have about 30.7g of carbs, pushing the total for two to over 60g. A medium-sized, 40-gram chilla noted by Clearcals offers a much lower carb count of 7.0g, resulting in only 14g for two. These discrepancies underscore the importance of understanding the ingredients and preparation methods to accurately assess the carb intake.

Key Factors That Influence Carbohydrates

Several elements play a crucial role in determining the final carbohydrate content of your besan chilla:

Besan Quantity: The primary source of carbohydrates is the besan (chickpea flour) itself. The amount of besan used directly correlates with the final carb total. For example, a recipe using half a cup of besan (46g) will yield a different result than one using a full cup (120g).
Serving Size: As demonstrated by the various cited sources, the size of a single 'chilla' is not consistent. A smaller, thinner chilla will have fewer carbs and calories than a large, thick one.
Added Vegetables: The inclusion of non-starchy vegetables like onions, spinach, and tomatoes can increase the total volume and fiber content without significantly boosting the total carbohydrates. This can help you feel full while consuming a lower-carb-per-serving meal.
Other Flours: Some recipes incorporate other flours like sooji (semolina) or oats. This blend can alter the carb, protein, and fat ratios, so it's vital to check the nutritional information for these mixed recipes.

Nutritional Comparison of Besan Chilla

Here is a simple comparison to illustrate how different recipes can alter the carbohydrate content and overall nutritional profile. This table uses representative data from common recipes and serving sizes to highlight the impact of ingredients.


Feature	Standard Besan Chilla	Vegetable-Loaded Chilla	Besan & Oats Chilla	Paneer Besan Chilla
Carbohydrates per Chilla	~22g	Lower (~15-20g)	~25g	Lower (~15-20g)
Protein per Chilla	~7.9g	Moderate	Higher (~12g)	Higher (~15-20g)
Fiber Content	Moderate (~4.7g)	High	High	Moderate
Glycemic Index	Low	Low	Low	Low
Best For	Balanced meal, protein boost	Weight management, diabetes control	Higher fiber needs	Increased protein intake

Making Healthier Besan Chilla Choices

For those monitoring their carbohydrate intake, especially for weight management or diabetes, small adjustments can make a big difference. These tips help you optimize the nutritional benefits of your besan chilla without sacrificing flavor.

Bulk up with veggies: Finely chopped onions, spinach, bell peppers, and grated carrots can be added generously to the batter. This increases fiber and micronutrients while reducing the besan-to-vegetable ratio, which lowers the overall carbohydrate load.
Use the right cooking method: Opt for a non-stick pan and minimal oil or ghee to keep the fat and calorie count in check.
Control portion size: Consider making smaller, thinner chillas instead of large, thick ones. This helps with portion control and calorie management.
Include additional protein: For a more balanced meal that slows down glucose absorption, add grated paneer or tofu to the batter.
Pair with fiber: Serve your chilla with a side salad or a portion of vegetables to increase fiber and manage blood sugar levels effectively.

The Role of Besan in a Balanced Diet

Besan, or chickpea flour, is a highly nutritious ingredient on its own. It's an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly than simple carbs. Its low glycemic index makes it a suitable ingredient for individuals managing blood sugar levels, though the overall carb intake should still be monitored. Besan also contains vital minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium, contributing to overall health. When preparing a chilla, combining it with other healthy components enhances these benefits, creating a filling and wholesome meal.

Conclusion: A Flexible Meal Option

In conclusion, the answer to how much carbs are in 2 besan chilla is highly variable, influenced by the specific recipe, portion size, and added ingredients. While two standard chillas might contain anywhere from 22g to over 60g of carbohydrates, besan chilla remains a nutritious and versatile meal option for those looking to manage their intake. By controlling portion sizes, focusing on a high vegetable-to-besan ratio, and incorporating extra protein, you can easily tailor this popular Indian dish to fit your dietary needs. The complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber found in besan make it a beneficial choice for sustained energy, satiety, and overall health when prepared thoughtfully. For more information on chickpea flour nutrition, you can consult reliable sources like the USDA nutritional database through sites such as Nutritionix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Besan chilla is not inherently low-carb, but it can be adapted. While besan itself is moderately carbohydrate-rich, adding more non-starchy vegetables and controlling portion size can help lower the total carb count per serving.

To reduce the carbs, use less besan in the batter, replace some besan with other flours like ground flaxseed, and incorporate a larger quantity of finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, and bell peppers.

Yes, adding non-starchy vegetables can effectively lower the carbohydrate density of the chilla by increasing volume and fiber without adding significant carbs. This allows for a more filling meal with fewer total carbohydrates.

Yes, besan chilla can be a good option for weight loss. Its high protein and fiber content promote satiety, helping you feel full for longer and reducing overall calorie intake. Moderation and a low-oil preparation method are key.

The type and amount of cooking oil significantly impact the fat and calorie content. Using a minimal amount of healthy oil on a non-stick pan is recommended to keep the chilla light and low in unhealthy fats.

Generally, yes. Besan has a higher protein and fiber content than whole wheat flour, along with a lower glycemic index. This makes besan chilla a more nutrient-dense and slower-digesting option compared to many wheat-based alternatives.

Yes, in moderation. Due to its low glycemic index and complex carbohydrate nature, besan chilla can be a suitable meal for those with diabetes. It's important to monitor portion size and add protein and fiber-rich ingredients to stabilize blood sugar.

Total carbs include all carbohydrates, while net carbs subtract the dietary fiber. Because besan chilla is high in fiber, the net carb count will be lower than the total carb count, which is relevant for some low-carb diets.