What Is a Real Good Chicken Tender Serving?
Real Good Foods clearly lists its nutritional information, which is the foundation for determining the protein content. According to the brand and various retailers, a standard serving of their lightly breaded chicken strips is 4 oz (112 g). This serving contains 23 grams of protein and is specifically marketed as being high in protein and low in carbohydrates, with only 3-4 grams of net carbs per serving. This differs significantly from many fast-food or standard frozen chicken tenders, which are often heavily breaded with refined flour.
The number of tenders in a single 4 oz serving can vary slightly depending on their size. However, based on preparation instructions and common serving practices, a 4 oz portion typically includes between 4 and 6 tenders. To find the average protein per single tender, you can divide the total protein content by the number of tenders. This means one Real Good chicken tender provides approximately 4 to 6 grams of protein, making it an excellent, low-carb source of lean protein.
Comparing Real Good Tenders to Other Chicken Options
To understand the value of Real Good tenders in your diet, it's helpful to compare them with other common protein sources. Their lean, high-protein, and low-carb profile positions them favorably for those on specific diet plans, such as keto or high-protein. The use of grain-free breading made with chickpea flour and whey protein further distinguishes them from many competitors.
| Nutritional Aspect | Real Good Chicken Tenders (4 oz serving) | Standard Breaded Tenders (approx. 4 oz) | Grilled Chicken Breast (4 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 23g | 18-20g (varies) | 31g |
| Net Carbs | 3-4g | 15-20g+ (varies) | 0g |
| Calories | 130-170 (varies) | 250-300+ (varies) | 165 |
| Fat | 2-6g (varies) | 15-20g+ (varies) | 3.6g |
The comparison table illustrates that while a plain, grilled chicken breast offers a higher concentration of protein with no carbs, Real Good tenders offer a convenient, breaded, and flavorful option without the high carb and calorie count of typical frozen tenders. This makes them a strong choice for balancing convenience with dietary goals.
The Role of Lean Protein in a Healthy Diet
Including lean protein sources like Real Good chicken tenders in your diet is vital for several reasons. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, making it crucial for those with active lifestyles or involved in resistance training. Beyond muscle, protein plays a key role in numerous bodily functions, including hormone production, enzyme function, and supporting immune health.
Furthermore, protein has a high satiety value, meaning it helps you feel full for longer, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. Replacing high-carb, low-satiety foods with protein-rich alternatives can help curb cravings and maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
Tips for a High-Protein Diet
To maximize the benefits of a high-protein diet, consider these tips:
- Vary your protein sources: While products like Real Good tenders are convenient, incorporate a variety of other lean protein sources like eggs, fish, lentils, and lean beef to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients.
- Pair protein with fiber: Combine your protein with non-starchy vegetables to add fiber, promoting healthy digestion and further increasing satiety.
- Space out protein intake: Distribute your protein consumption evenly across all meals to help with muscle repair and maintenance throughout the day.
- Focus on whole foods: Prioritize whole food sources of protein whenever possible, reserving convenience items for when you need a quick, reliable option.
- Be mindful of calories: While protein is beneficial, excess calories from any source can lead to weight gain. Even high-protein foods have calories, so monitoring your overall intake is important for weight management.
The Importance of Balanced Nutrition
While focusing on protein is a key strategy for many diet goals, it is crucial to remember that a balanced nutrition diet encompasses all macronutrients and micronutrients. The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, alongside protein. While Real Good tenders offer a low-carb, high-protein base, they should be part of a larger, well-rounded meal plan that includes a variety of other nutrient-dense foods. This approach prevents nutrient deficiencies and supports long-term health.
Conclusion
For those wondering how much protein is in one real good chicken tender?, the answer is that a single tender provides an average of 4-6 grams, depending on the size, within a 23-gram protein, 4 oz serving. This makes them a highly efficient and flavorful source of lean protein for a high-protein, low-carb diet. Their healthier, grain-free breading provides a superior nutritional profile compared to standard breaded chicken. Incorporating products like this into a varied and balanced meal plan can be a great way to support muscle growth, manage weight, and maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste or convenience. For more information on lean protein sources, visit the National Chicken Council at https://www.nationalchickencouncil.org/policy/nutrition-health/.
