Protein by Just Bare Chicken Tender Variety
The protein content in Just Bare chicken tenders is not a single number but depends on the specific product you purchase. The company offers different options, such as their popular lightly breaded and organic boneless skinless tenders, each with a distinct nutritional profile. Understanding these differences is key to accurately tracking your macronutrient intake.
Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips
These are a favorite for their convenience and taste, often compared to fast-food versions but with better quality ingredients. According to nutritional information, a standard serving of Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips contains approximately 16 to 17 grams of protein. The slight variation can depend on the batch and retail location, but this is a reliable benchmark. These tenders are also fully cooked, lightly breaded, and made with boneless chicken breast. The addition of the light breading and other ingredients affects the overall protein concentration compared to a naked chicken tender.
Just Bare Organic Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders
For those seeking a higher protein, lower-carb option, the Organic Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders are an excellent choice. A 4 oz serving of this product boasts an impressive 26 grams of protein. Since there is no breading, you get a higher concentration of protein from the pure chicken breast. This makes it an ideal option for meal prepping or for recipes where you want more control over the seasonings and ingredients. This product is also certified organic and made from chicken raised with no antibiotics ever.
Factors Influencing Protein Content
Several factors can influence the final protein count of your meal, even when starting with Just Bare tenders:
- Serving Size: The protein count is always based on a specific serving size, such as 2 pieces for the lightly breaded strips or 4 oz for the boneless skinless variety. Adjusting your portion size will change the total protein intake.
- Preparation Method: While Just Bare tenders are pre-cooked, how you reheat them (air fryer, oven, etc.) won't significantly change the protein content, but adding sauces or dips will alter the overall nutritional value.
- Additional Ingredients: The overall protein of your meal will increase if you serve the tenders with a high-protein side, such as a salad with cheese or a Greek yogurt dip.
Comparison: Just Bare vs. Other Chicken Tenders
To put Just Bare's protein content in perspective, here is a comparison with another brand, Real Good Foods, which focuses on high-protein, low-carb options.
| Product | Type | Protein per Serving | Serving Size | Breading | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Just Bare Organic Tenders | Raw | 26g | 4 oz | No | High protein, organic |
| Just Bare Lightly Breaded Strips | Pre-cooked | 16-17g | 2 pieces (~93g) | Yes | Convenient, quick prep |
| Real Good Foods Lightly Breaded Tenders | Pre-cooked | 21g | 3 pieces (~122g) | Yes | High protein, low carb |
This table highlights that while Just Bare's organic tenders offer the highest protein concentration without breading, a breaded option from Real Good Foods can also pack a significant protein punch per serving. Your choice will depend on your specific dietary goals, such as prioritizing organic ingredients or minimizing carbohydrates.
Benefits of a High-Protein Diet
Incorporating high-quality protein sources like Just Bare chicken tenders into your diet provides several health benefits:
- Muscle Maintenance and Growth: Protein is essential for repairing and building muscle tissue, especially after exercise. This is why many athletes and fitness enthusiasts prioritize protein intake.
- Increased Satiety: High-protein meals can help you feel fuller for longer, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie consumption.
- Improved Metabolism: Your body expends more energy digesting protein than fats or carbs, a phenomenon known as the thermic effect of food. This can slightly boost your metabolism.
- Overall Health: Protein is a fundamental building block for a vast array of bodily functions, including immune response, hormone production, and enzyme activity.
Incorporating Just Bare Tenders into Your Meal Plan
Just Bare chicken tenders are a versatile ingredient for quick and healthy meals. Here are a few ways to include them in your diet, maximizing your protein intake:
- High-Protein Salads: Top a large bed of mixed greens with chopped, lightly breaded tenders for a satisfying and easy lunch. Add a sprinkle of cheese and your favorite dressing for a complete meal.
- Power Bowls: Create a bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and sliced boneless skinless chicken tenders for a balanced and nutrient-dense dinner.
- Protein Wraps: Use whole wheat tortillas to make high-protein wraps with sliced tenders, leafy greens, and a low-fat sauce.
- Quick Snacks: The lightly breaded tenders can be heated quickly in an air fryer for a fast, protein-rich snack. Pair with a Greek yogurt dipping sauce for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
When considering how much protein is in Just Bare chicken tenders, it's essential to differentiate between the various products. The Organic Boneless Skinless Tenders offer 26g of protein per 4 oz, a robust option for those focused on pure protein, while the popular Lightly Breaded Strips provide 16-17g per serving, combining convenience with solid nutritional value. By being mindful of the specific product and serving size, you can effectively integrate Just Bare tenders into a balanced, high-protein eating plan to support your health and fitness goals. For more details on calculating your ideal protein intake based on your activity level, you can consult resources like Examine.com for optimal protein intake guidance.
Maximizing Your Meal's Protein Content with Just Bare
After determining how much protein is in Just Bare chicken tenders, you can build a more robust meal by adding other protein-rich ingredients. Consider combining the tenders with sources like beans, lentils, or a side of cottage cheese to easily increase your total protein intake. For a salad, tossing in some roasted nuts or seeds alongside the chicken provides healthy fats and an additional protein punch. If you're creating a wrap or sandwich, opting for whole-grain bread and a Greek yogurt-based sauce can also boost the protein count significantly.
The Role of Breading
It's important to remember that the breading on the lightly breaded versions adds carbohydrates and calories, while slightly lowering the protein concentration per gram compared to the naked tenders. For those monitoring their carb intake, the boneless skinless organic tenders are the better choice. If flavor and convenience are the priority, the lightly breaded options remain a great source of protein, especially when paired with low-carb, high-fiber vegetables to create a balanced meal. The key is to match the product to your specific dietary needs.
Air Fryer vs. Oven Preparation
Both air frying and baking are excellent methods for preparing Just Bare chicken tenders, as they both help to minimize additional fat compared to deep frying. An air fryer will typically yield a crispier exterior in a shorter amount of time, perfect for a quick snack or meal. Baking provides a more even, slightly less crispy result, but is equally effective. Neither method will significantly alter the final protein content, so you can choose based on your preference for texture and cook time.
High-Quality Protein Benefits
The benefits of consuming high-quality protein go beyond muscle mass. Protein is crucial for satiety, helping to manage appetite and cravings. A study from Harvard Health also mentions that higher protein intake can be beneficial for preserving muscle mass and strength, particularly as we age. By choosing a quality source like Just Bare chicken tenders, which are made with no antibiotics ever and no added hormones, you can feel confident you are fueling your body with a clean and effective source of protein.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuanced differences in protein content across Just Bare's chicken tender products is the first step toward making an informed nutritional choice. Whether you opt for the 26g per serving of the Organic Boneless Skinless Tenders or the 16-17g from the convenient Lightly Breaded Strips, both offer a valuable source of high-quality protein. By incorporating these into well-rounded meals and considering the preparation method and additional ingredients, you can easily meet your dietary goals. Just Bare provides a high-protein, delicious foundation for many meal plans, from a simple, satisfying lunch to a post-workout recovery dish. Remember to always check the specific product's packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information.
