Nutrition Diet: How many calories does one chilla have?

A medium-sized besan chilla, prepared with minimal oil, can contain as few as 67 calories. However, the exact number of calories does one chilla have varies significantly based on the base flour, added ingredients, and cooking method. This versatile Indian pancake is a nutritious and popular choice for a healthy diet.

Quick Summary

This nutritional breakdown explains the calorie content of various chilla types, such as besan and moong dal. Learn how preparation methods, portion sizes, and added ingredients directly impact the final count, showcasing why it's a popular health-conscious meal.

Key Points

• Variable Calories: The number of calories in one chilla is not fixed and depends on the base flour, cooking oil, and portion size.

• Besan vs. Other Flours: While a plain besan chilla (40g) has around 67 calories, other varieties like moong dal or oats have different counts, typically ranging from 60-105 kcal for a similar size.

• Cooking Method Matters: Using a non-stick pan with minimal oil or ghee is the most effective way to keep the calorie count low.

• Adding Veggies is Best: Including chopped vegetables boosts fiber and nutrients without a major calorie increase, unlike adding cheese or extra oil.

• High in Protein and Fiber: Chillas made from legumes like besan and moong dal are rich in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding weight management.

• Weight Loss Friendly: Thanks to its high protein and fiber content, chilla is a satisfying and filling meal option that helps reduce overall calorie intake.

Understanding the Chilla's Calorie Profile

Chilla, also known as cheela or Indian pancake, is a staple breakfast and snack across India. Its popularity stems from its taste, ease of preparation, and high nutritional value. However, generalizing the calorie count for all chillas is inaccurate, as it is highly dependent on the recipe and cooking method. The base flour, whether chickpea (besan), lentils (dal), or grains (oats), forms the foundation, and the addition of vegetables, spices, and fats for cooking changes the final nutritional makeup significantly.

The Foundational Ingredient: Besan

Besan chilla, made from chickpea flour, is one of the most common and widely recognized varieties. It is often celebrated for being rich in protein and dietary fiber, which promotes satiety and aids digestion. A basic, medium-sized (40g) besan chilla, lightly cooked on a non-stick pan, generally contains around 67 kcal. This makes it a weight-loss-friendly option compared to deep-fried alternatives. For those following a vegan diet, it serves as an excellent, protein-rich replacement for egg-based omelets.

Nutritional benefits of besan chilla:

• High Protein Content: Chickpea flour provides a significant amount of plant-based protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
• Fiber-Rich: High dietary fiber content helps to keep you full for longer, reducing overall calorie intake.
• Low Glycemic Index: Besan has a low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics.
• Gluten-Free: It is a naturally gluten-free option, making it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Calorie Comparison of Popular Chilla Varieties

The calorie count is influenced by the base flour. Here is a comparison of different medium-sized (40g) chillas, prepared with minimal oil:

Chilla Type	Calories (kcal)	Key Feature	Protein per Serving	Fiber per Serving
Besan Chilla	~67	High in plant-based protein and fiber.	2.5g	1.8g
Moong Dal Chilla	~104	A great option for weight loss, rich in protein and complex carbs.	9.2g	1.9g
Oats Chilla	~76	Excellent source of dietary fiber, aids in controlling appetite.	4.4g	2.0g
Sooji Chilla	~62	Lighter option compared to besan, good source of carbs.	2.4g	0.9g
Paneer Chilla	~74	Protein-rich, with added calcium and Vitamin D from paneer.	6.8g	1.3g

Factors Affecting Your Chilla's Calorie Count

Several factors can increase or decrease the calorie count of your chilla, making it highly customizable to your dietary needs.

Cooking Method and Fats

The amount and type of cooking medium used dramatically impacts the final calorie count. A chilla cooked with a generous amount of oil or ghee can be significantly higher in calories than one prepared on a non-stick pan with just a few drops of fat. For a low-calorie option, using a non-stick pan with minimal oil is key.

Portion Size

The variation in calorie counts reported online is often due to differing portion sizes. A small (30g) chilla will naturally have fewer calories than a large (50g) one. When tracking your intake, it's crucial to be mindful of the portion size to ensure accuracy.

Added Ingredients

What you add to the batter or use as a filling can also affect the caloric density. For a lighter version, stuffing the chilla with fibrous vegetables like spinach or grated carrots is a great way to boost nutrients without a significant calorie increase. Conversely, adding calorie-dense ingredients like cheese, paneer, or extra oil can push the calorie count higher.

Making a Healthier, Low-Calorie Chilla

For those focused on weight management or a healthier lifestyle, here are some tips for preparing a nutritionally sound chilla:

• Use a non-stick pan to minimize the need for oil or ghee during cooking.
• Increase the proportion of vegetables in your batter, such as finely chopped onions, tomatoes, or grated carrots.
• For a protein boost, add sprouted lentils or cottage cheese (paneer) as a low-fat filling.
• Experiment with different flours like oats or millets (jowar, ragi) to introduce variety and different nutritional benefits.
• Serve with a side of low-fat yogurt or fresh green chutney instead of heavy sauces or dressings.

Conclusion: Your Versatile Diet Ally

Whether you opt for a classic besan chilla or explore other varieties, this dish is a highly adaptable and healthy option for any meal. The answer to 'how many calories does one chilla have?' is not a single number but depends entirely on how it's made. By being mindful of your ingredients and cooking method, you can easily control its nutritional profile. Its high protein and fiber content ensure you stay full and energized, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet and weight management goals. Its versatility in flavor and ingredients keeps your meals interesting and nutritious without compromising on taste.

For more in-depth nutritional comparisons and expert advice, sources such as India Today's nutritional analysis are a good place to start (for example: Besan chilla or wheat roti for weight loss: Which is better?).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is besan chilla good for weight loss?

Yes, besan chilla is beneficial for weight loss because it is low in calories, high in protein, and rich in fiber. These nutrients help increase satiety, curb cravings, and promote a feeling of fullness for a longer duration.

Which chilla has the fewest calories?

Plain sooji chilla and besan chilla, when prepared with minimal oil on a non-stick pan, are among the lowest in calories, with a 40g piece containing approximately 62 kcal and 67 kcal, respectively.

How does adding paneer affect chilla calories?

Adding paneer increases the overall protein and fat content, thereby increasing the total calories. While a plain besan chilla has around 67 kcal (40g), a paneer-stuffed version can have a higher calorie count, but also offers more protein.

Can I make chilla without oil?

Yes, you can cook chilla without oil, especially on a high-quality non-stick pan. This will further reduce the calorie count, though some sources suggest a few drops of oil can enhance flavor without significantly increasing calories.

Are chillas gluten-free?

Most chillas, especially those made from besan (chickpea flour), moong dal, or other lentils, are naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredients if using a pre-made mix or if there is a risk of cross-contamination.

How many chillas should one eat for a meal?

For weight management, having one to two medium-sized chillas as a meal is a good starting point. Pairing them with a nutrient-rich chutney or a side of yogurt can make it a more balanced and filling meal.

Is moong dal chilla healthier than besan chilla?

Both are healthy, but moong dal chilla is often slightly higher in protein and lower in fat compared to a standard besan chilla, making it an excellent protein-packed option. The best choice depends on your specific nutritional goals.

Citations

• [1] Clearcals. "Besan Chilla Calories, Nutrition, and Health Benefits." Clearcals, 17 July 2025, https://clearcals.com/blogs/besan-chilla-calories-nutrition-and-health-benefits/.
• [2] Be Bodywise. "Besan Chilla Calories with Nutrition & Weight Loss Facts." bebodywise.com, 23 Feb. 2022, https://bebodywise.com/blog/besan-chilla-calories/.
• [3] ToneOp Eats. "Moong Dal Chilla For Weight Loss." toneopeats.com, 29 Apr. 2025, https://toneopeats.com/blogs/moong-dal-chilla-calories.
• [4] Healthshots. "Weight loss breakfast: 4 healthy chilla recipes to start your day." Healthshots, 2 Sep. 2023, https://www.healthshots.com/healthy-eating/recipes/healthy-breakfast-chilla-recipes/.
• [5] Dassana's Veg Recipes. "Besan Chilla Recipe (Besan ka Cheela)." vegrecipesofindia.com, 3 Nov. 2022, https://www.vegrecipesofindia.com/besan-cheela-recipe-besan-chilla/.
• [6] Tarla Dalal. "Calories in Besan Chilla, Besan Cheela." tarladalal.com, https://www.tarladalal.com/calories-for-besan-chilla-besan-cheela-33439.
• [7] India Today. "Besan chilla or wheat roti for weight loss: Which is better?" indiatoday.in, 1 Sep. 2025, https://www.indiatoday.in/information/story/besan-chilla-or-wheat-roti-for-weight-loss-which-is-better-2779903-2025-09-01.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in a medium besan chilla?

A medium-sized besan chilla (40g), when cooked with minimal oil on a non-stick pan, contains approximately 67 calories.

Which type of chilla is best for weight loss?

Moong dal chilla is a great choice for weight loss as it is high in protein and complex carbohydrates. Plain besan chilla is also a very healthy, low-calorie option.

How much does cooking oil add to the calories of a chilla?

The amount of oil or ghee used during cooking directly impacts the calorie count. A large amount of fat will significantly increase the calories, so using a non-stick pan with minimal fat is recommended.

Are moong dal chillas lower in calories than besan chillas?

No, a standard medium moong dal chilla often has more calories (around 104 kcal for 40g) than a besan chilla (around 67 kcal for 40g), though both are excellent healthy options.

Does adding vegetables change the calorie count significantly?

No, adding vegetables to your chilla batter adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals without significantly increasing the calorie count, making it a great way to boost nutrition.

Is chilla a high-protein food?

Yes, chillas, especially those made from besan or moong dal, are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and increases satiety.

Can I eat chilla for dinner if I'm trying to lose weight?

Yes, chilla can be a great, light dinner option for weight loss, as its high protein and fiber content helps keep you full and satisfied, reducing the risk of nighttime snacking.