Is Chilla Healthy or Not? The Definitive Guide

December 24, 2025 •

5 min read

According to nutrition experts, a single medium besan chilla can contain as few as 67 calories, making it a surprisingly light and healthy meal option. However, the healthiness of a chilla largely depends on its ingredients and preparation, leading many to question if this popular Indian savory pancake is truly beneficial for their diet.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nutritional value of different chilla types, detailing their benefits for weight management, diabetes, and overall health. It also covers how cooking methods and ingredients can influence a chilla's healthiness, offering practical tips for making it a nutritious meal. A comparative analysis helps determine which variations are most beneficial for specific health goals.

Key Points

High in Protein & Fiber: Chilla, especially varieties made from besan or moong dal, is rich in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding digestion.
Supports Weight Management: With its ability to keep you full longer and a typically low-calorie profile when cooked with minimal oil, chilla is an excellent food for weight loss.
Diabetic-Friendly Option: The low glycemic index of besan and moong dal chillas helps stabilize blood sugar levels, making them a suitable choice for managing diabetes.
Nutrient-Dense & Versatile: By adding vegetables like spinach and carrots, you can easily boost the vitamin and mineral content, making it a more wholesome and balanced meal.
Preparation Matters: The healthiness of a chilla hinges on its preparation. Minimizing oil and salt is crucial for maximizing its health benefits and avoiding potential downsides like high sodium content.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Many chilla varieties, such as those made with chickpea or lentil flour, are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity.
Customizable for Health Needs: Different flours like oats or ragi allow for customization based on specific health goals, from boosting metabolism to supporting bone strength.

Understanding the Nutritional Core of Chilla

Chilla, an Indian savory pancake, is a versatile dish typically made from legume or grain flours. The most common varieties include besan (chickpea flour), moong dal (split green gram), and oats chilla. The foundational ingredients are what primarily determine its health profile.

The Health Benefits of Besan Chilla

Besan (chickpea flour) is a cornerstone ingredient for many Indian snacks and is particularly healthy when used for chillas. Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free and packed with essential nutrients.

High in Protein and Fiber: A significant draw for besan chilla is its high content of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which promotes satiety and aids digestion. This helps in keeping you feeling full for longer, which is excellent for weight management.
Low Glycemic Index: Besan has a low glycemic index, meaning it causes a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels. This makes besan chilla a suitable breakfast or snack option for individuals managing diabetes.
Rich in Micronutrients: Beyond macronutrients, besan chilla provides minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate, which support energy levels and overall health.

Exploring Other Healthy Chilla Variations

While besan chilla is a frontrunner for health, other types offer unique benefits:

Moong Dal Chilla: Made from soaked and ground moong dal, this version is another excellent source of protein and fiber. It often contains slightly more protein and fiber than besan chilla and has a very low glycemic index, making it highly effective for weight loss by controlling hunger.
Oats Chilla: This variation uses powdered oats and is known for its high fiber content. Oats are rich in vitamins and minerals and provide antioxidants that help lower blood sugar levels.
Ragi Chilla: Made from finger millet flour, ragi chilla is a gluten-free and nutritious option, particularly beneficial for diabetics due to its low glycemic index. It is also a rich source of calcium and iron.

The Role of Preparation in a Chilla's Healthiness

The cooking method and additional ingredients significantly influence a chilla's health profile. While the base can be very healthy, poor preparation can undermine its benefits.

Oil Content: Frying chilla in excessive oil or ghee adds unnecessary calories and saturated fat. For a healthier option, use a non-stick pan with minimal oil or opt for a light brush of a healthy fat like ghee.
Added Vegetables: Incorporating a generous amount of finely chopped or grated vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, spinach, carrots, and bell peppers can boost the dish's fiber, vitamin, and mineral content. Palak besan chilla, for example, combines the benefits of chickpea flour and spinach.
Leavening Agents: Traditional chillas are unleavened and can be dense. Some recipes suggest adding a leavening agent like baking soda for a lighter texture, but this is optional and does not affect the nutritional core.
Accompaniments: Pairing chilla with a healthy side like mint, coriander, or yogurt chutney adds more nutrients and flavor without the heavy calories of other sauces.

Comparison of Different Chilla Types for Weight Loss

Making the right choice of chilla can directly impact your weight loss goals. This table compares three popular varieties based on their suitability for weight management.


Feature	Besan Chilla	Moong Dal Chilla	Oats Chilla
Primary Ingredient	Chickpea flour (Besan)	Split yellow lentils (moong dal)	Powdered oats
Protein Content	High; promotes satiety and supports muscle mass.	Very high; excellent for appetite control.	Moderate; provides a sustained energy release.
Fiber Content	High; aids digestion and fullness.	High; helps keep you full for extended periods.	High; boosts metabolism and satiety.
Calorie Count	Generally low when prepared with minimal oil.	Low, especially when cooked with minimal oil.	Low; a satisfying option for those watching calories.
Glycemic Index	Low; helps manage blood sugar levels.	Very low; highly effective for blood sugar control.	Can help lower blood sugar levels and is diabetic-friendly.
Digestion	Easy to digest for most people; gluten-free.	Easy to digest; excellent for gut health.	Easy to digest; promotes satiety due to fiber.

Potential Downsides and How to Mitigate Them

While chilla is generally healthy, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Sodium Content: The sodium in some recipes can be relatively high, which can be a concern for individuals with high blood pressure. Using less salt and focusing on spices for flavor can help.
Digestive Discomfort: Some people may experience bloating or gas from besan, especially when consumed in large quantities or if the chilla isn't cooked thoroughly. Adding digestive aids like ajwain (carom seeds) and ginger can help. Soaking the flour beforehand can also ease digestion.
Incorrect Portions: Like any food, overconsumption can lead to a caloric surplus, hindering weight loss efforts. Portion control is key to reaping the benefits.

Making Chilla a Sustainable Part of a Healthy Diet

To ensure your chilla remains a healthy choice, follow these tips:

Prioritize Protein-Rich Bases: For weight loss and sustained energy, opt for chillas made from besan or moong dal.
Load Up on Veggies: Always add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, and tomatoes to boost nutrients and fiber.
Use Minimal Healthy Fats: Cook on a non-stick pan with a very light brush of oil or ghee to keep the calorie count low.
Pair with Nutritious Sides: Serve with a simple green chutney or a side of low-fat yogurt to add flavor without excess calories.
Control Sodium Levels: Season with herbs and spices instead of relying solely on salt.

Conclusion: So, Is Chilla Healthy or Not?

In conclusion, chilla is undoubtedly a healthy and nutritious dish when prepared correctly. Its inherent qualities—being rich in protein, high in fiber, and often low in fat and calories—make it an excellent choice for managing weight, controlling blood sugar, and supporting overall wellness. While variations and preparation methods can affect its health profile, opting for legume-based chillas like besan or moong dal, adding plenty of vegetables, and using minimal oil ensures you get the maximum nutritional benefit. By making mindful choices about ingredients and cooking techniques, you can confidently include chilla as a regular, healthy staple in your diet.

For a deeper look into the nutritional composition of various chilla types, credible resources like Clearcals provide detailed breakdowns of calories and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, besan chilla is beneficial for weight loss because it is high in protein and fiber, which helps you feel full longer and reduces snacking. It is also low in calories when cooked with minimal oil.

Yes, chilla can be part of a daily diet, provided you practice portion control and balance it with other nutritious foods. It is best to include a variety of chilla types and plenty of vegetables for a well-rounded diet.

Yes, chilla, particularly moong dal chilla, is considered light and easy to digest. For besan chilla, soaking the flour or adding digestive spices like ajwain and ginger can aid digestion.

While both are healthy, moong dal chilla has a slight edge for weight loss due to its higher protein and fiber content and very low glycemic index. However, besan chilla is quicker to prepare and still an excellent, nutritious option.

Yes, chilla made from besan, moong dal, or ragi has a low glycemic index, which helps manage blood sugar levels. This makes it a great option for individuals with diabetes.

To make chilla healthier, add plenty of chopped vegetables like spinach and carrots, use minimal oil on a non-stick pan, reduce salt, and serve with a homemade, low-fat chutney or yogurt.

Yes, chilla can support muscle gain, especially when made with besan or moong dal. Its protein content assists with muscle recovery and growth, particularly when paired with other protein-rich foods.