Poultry
roasted chicken dark meat.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
SERVING
CALORIES
205
PROTEIN
27.4g
CARBS
0g
FAT
9.7g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories205kcal—
Protein27.4g55%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat9.7g12%
Saturated fat2.7g13%
Cholesterol93mg31%
Water63.1g—
MINERALS
Sodium93mg4%
Potassium240mg5%
Calcium15mg1%
Iron1.3mg7%
Magnesium23mg5%
Phosphorus179mg14%
Zinc2.8mg25%
Copper0.08mg9%
Manganese0.02mg1%
Selenium18µg33%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A22µg2%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.10µg1%
Vitamin E0.27mg2%
Vitamin K3.9µg3%
Thiamin (B1)0.07mg6%
Riboflavin (B2)0.23mg18%
Niacin (B3)6.5mg41%
Pantothenic acid (B5)1.2mg24%
Vitamin B60.36mg21%
Folate (B9)8.0µg2%
Vitamin B120.32µg13%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup140g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function.
- ✓Rich in iron and zinc, which are vital for immune system support, oxygen transport, and energy metabolism.
- ✓Provides significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly B6 and niacin, crucial for brain health and converting food into energy.
- ✓Contains higher levels of healthy monounsaturated fats compared to white meat, which can support heart health.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Roast dark meat with the skin on to retain moisture and flavor; the skin can be removed before eating to reduce fat intake.
- 2Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 3Shred leftover roasted dark meat for use in tacos, salads, soups, and casseroles for a quick and flavorful protein addition.
- 4Save the bones after eating to make a rich and nutritious chicken stock.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and consume within 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is roasted chicken dark meat healthy?
Yes, roasted chicken dark meat is a nutrient-dense source of complete protein, iron, and zinc. While it contains more fat than white meat, much of it is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, and it provides essential B vitamins for energy metabolism and brain health.
How much protein is in roasted chicken dark meat?
A 100g serving of roasted chicken dark meat contains approximately 27.37 grams of protein. This high protein content makes it an excellent choice for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Is roasted chicken dark meat keto-friendly?
Yes, roasted chicken dark meat is highly keto-friendly as it contains zero carbohydrates and a moderate amount of fat (9.73g per 100g). Its high protein and fat content help promote satiety, which is beneficial for low-carb lifestyles.
Is roasted chicken dark meat gluten-free?
Naturally, roasted chicken dark meat is gluten-free. However, if it is prepared with store-bought seasonings, rubs, or marinades, you should check the labels for hidden gluten-containing ingredients like wheat-based thickeners or soy sauce.
How does dark meat compare to white meat nutritionally?
Dark meat contains slightly more calories and fat than white meat but is significantly richer in minerals like iron and zinc. It also tends to be more flavorful and stays moister during cooking due to its higher fat content and connective tissue.
How do you keep roasted chicken dark meat moist?
To keep dark meat moist, roast it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. Because it has more fat than breast meat, it is naturally more succulent and less prone to drying out.
What does roasted chicken dark meat taste like?
Roasted chicken dark meat has a richer, more intense savory flavor compared to white meat. It has a juicier, more tender texture and a deeper umami profile, largely due to the higher fat content and the presence of myoglobin in the muscle.
How long does roasted chicken dark meat last in the fridge?
Once roasted, chicken dark meat can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For the best quality and safety, ensure it is cooled and refrigerated within two hours of cooking.
Can you freeze roasted chicken dark meat?
Yes, roasted chicken dark meat freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn; it will maintain its best quality for up to 4 months, though it remains safe to eat indefinitely if kept frozen.
Why is chicken dark meat darker than white meat?
The darker color comes from myoglobin, a protein that delivers oxygen to frequently used muscles like the legs and thighs. Because these muscles are used for standing and walking, they require more oxygen, resulting in a darker pigment and higher iron content.
