Poultry
roasted dark meat chicken.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
SERVING
CALORIES
209
PROTEIN
26g
CARBS
0g
FAT
10.9g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories209kcal—
Protein26g52%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat10.9g14%
Saturated fat3.1g16%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol94mg31%
Water62.5g—
MINERALS
Sodium82mg4%
Potassium223mg5%
Calcium12mg1%
Iron1.3mg7%
Magnesium21mg5%
Phosphorus198mg16%
Zinc2.4mg22%
Copper0.07mg8%
Manganese0.02mg1%
Selenium26.5µg48%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A15µg2%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.10µg1%
Vitamin E0.20mg1%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.07mg6%
Riboflavin (B2)0.22mg17%
Niacin (B3)6.5mg41%
Pantothenic acid (B5)1.2mg24%
Vitamin B60.35mg21%
Folate (B9)7.0µg2%
Vitamin B120.40µg17%
%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 cup150g
1 piece120g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- ✓Rich in heme iron and vitamin B12, which are crucial for red blood cell formation and preventing anemia.
- ✓High in zinc and selenium, minerals that support immune function and act as antioxidants.
- ✓Contains more myoglobin and taurine than white meat, which may support cardiovascular health and metabolic function.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1To reheat and maintain moisture, place chicken in an oven-safe dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (165°C).
- 2The rich flavor of dark meat is ideal for shredding and adding to tacos, soups, casseroles, or salads.
- 3To re-crisp the skin, place the chicken under a broiler for 1-3 minutes after reheating, watching closely to prevent burning.
- 4Save the bones and carcass after removing the meat to make a flavorful and nutritious chicken stock.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate leftover roasted chicken in an airtight container at or below 40°F (4°C) and consume within 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is roasted dark meat chicken healthy?
Yes, roasted dark meat chicken is a nutrient-dense protein source. It is rich in heme iron, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, which support immune function and red blood cell health. While it contains more fat than white meat, it offers higher levels of certain minerals and heart-healthy taurine.
How much protein is in roasted dark meat chicken?
A 100g serving of roasted dark meat chicken provides approximately 26g of complete protein. This makes it an excellent food for muscle building, repair, and maintaining satiety throughout the day.
Is roasted dark meat chicken keto-friendly?
Yes, it is highly keto-friendly and ideal for low-carb diets. With 0g of carbohydrates and 10.9g of fat per 100g, it provides the necessary fats and proteins required for ketosis without adding any sugars or starches.
Is roasted dark meat chicken gluten-free?
Naturally, chicken is gluten-free. However, if you are buying pre-roasted chicken or using store-bought seasonings, check the label for wheat-based thickeners or malt-derived flavorings that may contain gluten.
How does dark meat compare to white meat nutritionally?
Dark meat contains more myoglobin, iron, and zinc than white meat, giving it a richer flavor and higher mineral content. While it has more calories and fat (209 cal and 10.9g fat per 100g) than breast meat, it is often considered more flavorful and moist.
How do you keep roasted dark meat chicken moist?
Dark meat is naturally juicier than white meat due to its higher fat and connective tissue content. To keep it moist, roast it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
How long does roasted dark meat chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked dark meat chicken can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For the best quality, ensure it is refrigerated within two hours of cooking.
Can I freeze roasted dark meat chicken?
Yes, roasted dark meat chicken freezes very well. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 4 months; it is excellent for future use in soups, stews, or casseroles as it retains its texture better than white meat when reheated.
What is the best way to use leftover roasted dark meat?
Because it stays moist during reheating, leftover dark meat is perfect for tacos, stir-fries, chicken salad, or pulled chicken sandwiches. It also adds deep flavor to broths and grain bowls.
Why is dark meat chicken darker than white meat?
The darker color is due to a higher concentration of myoglobin, a protein that stores oxygen in muscles. Since chickens use their legs more frequently for standing and walking, those muscles require more oxygen, resulting in a darker pigment and higher iron levels.
