Understanding Your Plate: How many calories are in 2 chicken bacon strips?

October 27, 2025 •

4 min read

Two slices of chicken bacon can contain anywhere from 30 to 70 calories, a significant difference depending on the brand. Knowing the precise number of how many calories are in 2 chicken bacon strips is crucial for anyone monitoring their intake or choosing a leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two chicken bacon strips varies by brand, ranging from 30 to 70, reflecting differences in fat and processing. It is a lower-calorie and lower-fat option than traditional pork bacon, but often contains high sodium. Reading nutrition labels is vital for informed dietary decisions.

Key Points

Brand Variation: The calorie count for 2 chicken bacon strips varies significantly by brand, ranging from 30 to 70 calories.
Check Labels: Always read the nutrition label on the specific brand you are purchasing to accurately track your calorie and fat intake.
Lower Fat Option: Chicken bacon is generally lower in saturated fat and total calories than traditional pork bacon, making it a viable alternative for some diets.
High Sodium Warning: Despite being lower in fat, most chicken bacon is still a processed meat and can be high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Nutrient-Rich Alternatives: For a truly healthy diet, mix up your protein sources with whole foods like fish, eggs, and legumes instead of relying solely on processed meats.
Cooking Matters: Baking chicken bacon on a wire rack allows fat to render off, making it a leaner finished product than pan-frying.

The Surprising Variability of Chicken Bacon's Calorie Count

While often viewed as a single entity, the nutritional profile of chicken bacon can differ dramatically based on the manufacturer and processing methods. This is a crucial point for anyone counting calories, especially given that chicken bacon is frequently chosen as a healthier alternative to pork bacon. For a two-strip serving, the calorie count can range from as low as 30 to as high as 70, meaning simply choosing 'chicken bacon' isn't enough to guarantee a consistent calorie intake. For instance, a two-slice serving of Wellshire Uncured Chicken Bacon has only 30 calories, while Maple Lodge Farms' version contains 70 calories for the same serving size. This disparity emphasizes the need to check the nutrition label on every product you purchase. The calorie differences are typically due to varying fat content, as some products are made with leaner cuts or use different binding agents and flavourings.

Chicken Bacon Versus Pork Bacon: A Nutritional Showdown

For many, the switch to chicken bacon is motivated by the desire for a lighter protein source. Comparing chicken bacon to traditional pork bacon reveals some clear nutritional trade-offs. While chicken bacon is generally lower in calories and fat, particularly saturated fat, it's not a clear-cut winner. The flavour profile and texture are different, and as a processed meat, its sodium content is often a significant consideration. Understanding these distinctions can help you determine which option best fits your nutritional goals.

Comparing Brands: A Closer Look at Calorie Differences

To highlight the importance of reading labels, here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for a two-strip serving of a few popular chicken bacon brands:

Wellshire Uncured Chicken Bacon: At just 30 calories and 2g of fat, this is one of the leaner options available. It's also lower in sodium compared to some competitors.
Al Fresco Chicken Bacon: A two-slice serving contains 35 calories. This brand stands out for its high protein-to-fat ratio, with a macro breakdown that is 52% protein.
Maple Lodge Farms Chicken Bacon Style: With 70 calories per two slices, this brand has a slightly higher fat content than the other two examples. It's important to note the variation even within one manufacturer's offerings, as different versions exist.

This data shows that checking the specific product details is the most reliable way to monitor your intake. A calorie-conscious eater could inadvertently consume more than double the calories by choosing one brand over another without checking.

The Role of Lean Protein in Your Diet

Chicken bacon is a source of lean protein, which is an essential macronutrient with many health benefits. Lean protein sources are lower in fat and calories, making them ideal for weight management and muscle maintenance. Protein helps increase satiety, keeping you fuller for longer and reducing cravings. It is vital for building and repairing tissues and supports a healthy metabolism. However, it's worth remembering that chicken bacon is still a processed food, and as such, it should not be the sole source of protein in your diet. A balanced diet should include a variety of protein sources, such as fish, eggs, legumes, and skinless poultry.

Making Healthier Choices with Processed Meats

All processed meats, including chicken bacon, should be consumed in moderation. While a lighter alternative to pork bacon, it is still often high in sodium, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure. Look for brands that offer lower-sodium options and consider other alternatives like turkey bacon, which is also lower in fat, or even plant-based options. When preparing any bacon, cooking methods can influence the final fat and calorie content. Baking on a wire rack allows fat to drip away, resulting in a leaner, crispier result than frying in its own grease.


Feature	Chicken Bacon	Pork Bacon (Center-Cut)
Calories (per 2 strips)	30-70 (varies by brand)	Approx. 90
Total Fat (per 2 strips)	2-5g (varies by brand)	Approx. 5g
Saturated Fat (per 2 strips)	0-1g (varies by brand)	Approx. 2g
Protein (per 2 strips)	3-8g (varies by brand)	Approx. 9g
Sodium (per 2 strips)	High (varies by brand)	High

The Takeaway on Chicken Bacon

While chicken bacon can be a good substitute for traditional pork bacon due to its generally lower fat and calorie count, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its high sodium content means it should be enjoyed in moderation, just like other processed meats. Always check the nutrition label, as the calorie content can vary significantly between brands. By making an informed choice and pairing it with other nutrient-rich foods, chicken bacon can fit into a balanced and healthy diet.

For more information on making healthy eating choices, consider exploring resources from the USDA or other authoritative sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Calorie variation in chicken bacon brands is primarily due to differences in the cuts of chicken used (e.g., white meat vs. a blend of white and dark meat), the amount of fat and skin included, and the other ingredients used as fillers or binders during processing.

Chicken bacon is typically lower in calories and saturated fat than pork bacon, making it a 'healthier' option in those respects. However, both are processed meats and can be high in sodium, so moderation is key for both.

To reduce sodium while eating chicken bacon, look for 'lower sodium' versions of the product. Additionally, balance your diet with plenty of fresh, unprocessed foods and use low-sodium seasonings in other meals to compensate for the bacon's saltiness.

Chicken bacon can be a part of a weight loss diet as it is a lower-calorie alternative to pork bacon. However, successful weight loss depends on your overall dietary intake and physical activity. Always consume it as part of a balanced diet that prioritizes whole foods.

Baking chicken bacon on a wire rack over a baking sheet is an excellent method to minimize fat. This allows the fat to drip away from the strips, producing a crispier and leaner product.

Yes, as a meat product, chicken bacon contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. However, the total amount of protein per serving can be lower than in traditional pork bacon.

As a processed meat, regular consumption of chicken bacon, particularly if high in sodium, could contribute to health issues like high blood pressure. Some brands also use curing agents, so reading the label and consuming in moderation is recommended.