How much purines are in fried chicken?

December 22, 2025 •

3 min read

For those managing gout or high uric acid levels, understanding how much purines are in fried chicken is crucial. One source indicates that fried chicken with skin may contain around 65mg of purine per 100g, though figures can vary significantly based on the specific cut.

Quick Summary

Fried chicken typically contains a moderate level of purines, with exact amounts influenced by the cut and cooking method. Healthier preparation, like grilling skinless meat, can reduce overall purine intake.

Key Points

Purine levels vary by cut: Different parts of the chicken contain varying amounts of purines, with liver being very high and breast meat being moderate.
Frying increases purine intake: Frying is not the ideal method for a low-purine diet, as it often includes the skin, which adds extra purines and unhealthy fats.
Skinless cuts are healthier: Removing the skin from chicken significantly lowers the purine and fat content, making it a better choice for those with gout.
Boiling reduces purines: Cooking chicken in water can help reduce total purine content as some are released into the cooking liquid.
Portion control is crucial: Even with healthier preparations, consuming chicken in moderate portions (under 4 oz) is important for managing uric acid levels.
Watch for high-purine additions: Gravies and sauces made from meat stock should be avoided as they are often high in purines.
Healthy alternatives exist: Plant-based protein sources like tofu and lentils are great low-purine alternatives to chicken.

Understanding Purines and Gout

Purines are natural chemical compounds found in many foods and also produced by the body. When your body breaks down purines, it produces uric acid. While this process is normal, high levels of uric acid can lead to a painful form of arthritis known as gout, which is caused by uric acid crystals forming in the joints. For those with gout or hyperuricemia (excess uric acid), managing dietary purine intake is an important part of a treatment plan.

Purine Levels in Different Chicken Cuts

Chicken is generally considered a moderate-purine food, meaning most cuts contain between 100 and 200 milligrams of purines per 100 grams, or a 3.5-ounce serving. However, the purine content varies significantly depending on the specific cut and whether the skin is included. Organ meats like chicken liver are notably high in purines and should be avoided by those with gout.

In contrast, leaner, skinless cuts like chicken breast and thigh contain lower amounts. Research from Verywell Health, citing a Japanese study, lists the total purine content for various 100g portions of chicken.

How Preparation Affects Purine Content

Not all chicken is created equal, and the way it's prepared has a significant impact on its purine level. Frying is a less desirable cooking method for those monitoring their purine intake because it often involves the skin, which contains additional purines and unhealthy fats. Fried chicken can also be prepared with high-fat oils and served with purine-heavy gravies, further increasing the risk of a gout flare.

Healthier cooking methods can help reduce the total purine content. According to Vinmec, rinsing and cooking chicken in water can significantly reduce purine levels, as they are released into the cooking liquid. Grilling, roasting, and steaming are also recommended as they avoid adding extra fat and allow some purines to leach out.

Comparison Table: Chicken Purines by Cut and Preparation


Chicken Cut (100g)	Purine Content (mg)	Purine Range	Notes
Fried Chicken with Skin	~65	Moderate	Figure can vary; preparation adds fats.
Leg	122.9	Moderate	Healthier without the skin.
Wing	137.5	Moderate	Best consumed skinless and not fried.
Breast, Skinless	141.2	Moderate	Leanest cut, better option in moderation.
Liver	>300	High	Should be avoided by those with gout.

Healthier Chicken Alternatives and Dietary Tips

For those managing uric acid levels, opting for healthier chicken preparations is key. Removing the skin before cooking is a simple yet effective step to lower both fat and purine content. Combining chicken with complex carbohydrates like whole grains and starchy vegetables can also help lower urate levels in the blood.

Prioritize Leaner Cuts: Choose skinless chicken breast over fattier cuts or those with the skin on.
Modify Cooking Methods: Opt for grilling, baking, roasting, or steaming instead of frying. Using high-quality oils like extra virgin olive oil is also recommended.
Control Portion Sizes: Limiting chicken intake to moderate portions (less than 4 ounces) helps manage overall purine consumption.
Consider Plant-Based Proteins: Explore alternatives like tofu and lentils, which have significantly lower purine levels.
Avoid High-Purine Sides: Stay away from gravies or sauces made with meat extracts, which are high in purines.

For a more comprehensive guide on managing gout through diet, consider visiting a reliable source like the Mayo Clinic website.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key

While fried chicken is a popular dish, its purine content makes it a less-than-ideal choice for individuals with gout. The high purine levels, especially when fried with the skin on, increase the risk of elevated uric acid and subsequent flare-ups. By choosing leaner, skinless cuts and using healthier cooking methods, it's possible to enjoy chicken in moderation without compromising a low-purine diet. Combining mindful consumption with a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy can significantly help manage uric acid levels and reduce gout symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all chicken is high in purines. Most muscle meat cuts are considered moderate in purines, while organ meats like liver are very high and should be avoided.

The purine content in a fried chicken leg can vary. However, a chicken leg is a moderate-purine food, with one source indicating around 122.9 mg per 100g, depending on preparation.

Yes, removing the skin from fried chicken can help reduce the purine content, as the skin contains additional purines and fats.

Healthier cooking methods like grilling, baking, or steaming are better options. Boiling chicken can also reduce total purine content as they leach into the water.

Chicken nuggets are often highly processed and fried, making them a less-than-ideal choice for a low-purine diet. The specific purine content would depend on their ingredients and preparation.

For those with a predisposition to high uric acid, excessive intake of moderate-purine foods like fried chicken can contribute to an increased risk of gout attacks. Portion control and healthier preparation are key.

Great lower-purine protein options include low-fat dairy products, eggs, most nuts and legumes, and plant-based options like tofu.