Calories in Chicken Thigh: Nutritional facts for Chicken Thigh Types
Chicken thighs are a flavorful dark meat poultry often used in fried chicken and grilled chicken recipes. There are 232 chicken thigh calories for a 100g portion grilled, while a medium roasted chicken thigh with skin (130g) contains 278 calories. Frying the meat significantly increases the calorie values, one fried thigh with skin and breading (136g) containing 373 calories, while a roasted chicken thigh without skin (112g) only has 240 calories. A KFC Original Recipe thigh part has 250 calories, a Popeyes mild fried thigh contains 280 calories, and a Church's Texas Chicken fried thigh has 290 calories.
The chicken thigh nutrition profile is dense with high-quality protein, offering 23.5g per 100g roasted serving. A study confirmed that protein-rich foods are effective for stimulating muscle protein synthesis (Phillips, S. M., 2014). Major health benefits arise from this nutrient density, including a rich supply of zinc and B vitamins. A 100g roasted serving delivers 2.8mg of zinc (25% DV) and 5.9mg of niacin (37% DV), supporting immune function and energy metabolism.
Preparations for chicken thighs include Raw, Roasted, Grilled, and Fried, with top chicken meat producers like the United States and China dominating the global supply. The price of chicken legs has seen a moderate increase over the last 20 years, with the average retail cost climbing from under $1.00 per pound in the early 2000s to over $1.85 per pound in 2022.
Chicken thighs are a part of dishes like Southern Fried Chicken at Popeyes and Chicken Adobo at Jollibee. A sensible consumption recommendation is one medium roasted thigh with skin (130 grams), providing 278 calories that can be expended through 28 minutes of jogging or 35 minutes of moderate cycling.
Chicken Thigh nutrition
| Stats | Weight |
|---|---|
| Carbs | -0.173 grams |
| Protein | 17.1 grams |
| Fats | 13.4 grams |
| Sugars | 0 grams |
- Chicken Thigh with Skin Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Grilled Chicken Thigh Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Chicken Thigh Calories No SKin (Nutritional Facts)
- Large Chicken Thigh Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Medium Chicken Thigh Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Small Chicken Thigh Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Raw Chicken Thigh Nutrition
- Sodium in Chicken Thigh
- Potassium in Chicken Thigh
- Sugar in Chicken Thigh
- Fiber in Chicken Thigh
- Protein in Chicken Thigh
- Carbs in Chicken Thigh
- Fat in Chicken Thigh
- Vitamins in Chicken Thigh
- Minerals in Chicken Thigh
Chicken Thigh with Skin Calories (Nutritional Facts)
One roasted chicken thigh with skin (130g) contains 278 calories, 30.5g of protein, 18g of fat, 0.12g of carbohydrates, 166.4mg of cholesterol, 226.2mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar. One fried chicken thigh with skin and breading (136g) contains 373 calories, 26.2g of protein, 24.6g of fat, 11.8g of carbohydrates, 144.2mg of cholesterol, 1015.9mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
One grilled chicken thigh with skin and sauce (110g) contains 255 calories, 20.5g of protein, 15.1g of fat, 8g of carbohydrates, 116.6mg of cholesterol, 629.2mg of sodium, and 6.5g of sugar. One cup of diced, grilled chicken thigh (165g) contains 383 calories, 30.7g of protein, 22.7g of fat, 12g of carbohydrates, 174.9mg of cholesterol, 943.8mg of sodium, and 9.8g of sugar.
One roasted chicken thigh without skin (112g) contains 240 calories, 26.3g of protein, 15.5g of fat, 0.1g of carbohydrates, 143.4mg of cholesterol, 194.9mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar. One fried chicken thigh without skin (84g) contains 230 calories, 16.2g of protein, 15.2g of fat, 7.3g of carbohydrates, 89mg of cholesterol, 627.5mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
A large grilled chicken thigh with skin and sauce (140g) contains 325 calories, 26.1g of protein, 19.3g of fat, 10.2g of carbohydrates, 148.4mg of cholesterol, 800.8mg of sodium, and 8.3g of sugar. A large fried chicken thigh with bone and skin removed (132g) contains 362 calories, 25.4g of protein, 23.9g of fat, 11.5g of carbohydrates, 139.9mg of cholesterol, 986mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
A medium grilled chicken thigh with skin and sauce (110g) contains 255 calories, 20.5g of protein, 15.1g of fat, 8g of carbohydrates, 116.6mg of cholesterol, 629.2mg of sodium, and 6.5g of sugar. A medium fried chicken thigh with bone and skin removed (99g) contains 271 calories, 19g of protein, 17.9g of fat, 8.6g of carbohydrates, 104.9mg of cholesterol, 739.5mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
A small grilled chicken thigh with skin and sauce (100g) contains 232 calories, 18.6g of protein, 13.8g of fat, 7.3g of carbohydrates, 106mg of cholesterol, 572mg of sodium, and 5.9g of sugar. A small fried chicken thigh with bone and skin removed (60g) contains 163 calories, 11.4g of protein, 10.7g of fat, 5.2g of carbohydrates, 63mg of cholesterol, 443.7mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
One raw chicken thigh with skin (193g) contains 427 calories, 31.9g of protein, 32.1g of fat, 0.48g of carbohydrates, 189.1mg of cholesterol, 156.3mg of sodium, and 0g of sugar.
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 226.2mg of sodium, and a fried thigh with skin (136g) has 1015.9mg. One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 629.2mg of sodium, and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) has 943.8mg. One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 194.9mg of sodium, and a fried thigh without skin (84g) has 627.5mg. A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 800.8mg of sodium, and a large fried thigh (132g) has 986mg. A small fried thigh (60g) contains 443.7mg of sodium. One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 156.3mg of sodium.
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 330.2mg of potassium, and a fried thigh with skin (136g) has 326.4mg. One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 266.2mg of potassium, and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) has 399.3mg. One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 284.5mg of potassium, and a fried thigh without skin (84g) has 201.6mg. A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 338.8mg of potassium, and a large fried thigh (132g) has 316.8mg. A small fried thigh (60g) contains 142.6mg of potassium. One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 393.7mg of potassium.
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 0g of sugar, and a fried thigh with skin (136g) has 0g. One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 6.5g of sugar, and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) has 9.8g. One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 0g of sugar, and a fried thigh without skin (84g) has 0g. A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 8.3g of sugar, and a large fried thigh (132g) has 0g. A small fried thigh (60g) contains 0g of sugar. One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 0g of sugar.
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 0g of fiber, and a fried thigh with skin (136g) has 0.14g. One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 0.22g of fiber, and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) has 0.33g. One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 0g of fiber, and a fried thigh without skin (84g) has 0.08g. A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 0.28g of fiber, and a large fried thigh (132g) has 0.13g. A small fried thigh (60g) contains 0.06g of fiber. One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 0g of fiber.
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) provides 30.5g of protein (61% DV), and a fried thigh with skin (136g) provides 26.2g (52% DV). One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) provides 20.5g of protein (41% DV), and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) provides 30.7g (61% DV). One roasted thigh without skin (112g) provides 26.3g of protein (53% DV), and a fried thigh without skin (84g) provides 16.2g (32% DV). A large grilled thigh (140g) provides 26.1g of protein (52% DV), and a large fried thigh (132g) provides 25.4g (51% DV). A small fried thigh (60g) provides 11.4g of protein (23% DV). One raw thigh with skin (193g) provides 31.9g of protein (64% DV).
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 0.12g of carbohydrates (0% DV), and a fried thigh with skin (136g) contains 11.8g (4% DV). One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 8g of carbohydrates (3% DV), and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) contains 12g (4% DV). One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 0.1g of carbohydrates (0% DV), and a fried thigh without skin (84g) contains 7.3g (3% DV). A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 10.2g of carbohydrates (4% DV), and a large fried thigh (132g) contains 11.5g (4% DV). A small fried thigh (60g) contains 5.2g of carbohydrates (2% DV). One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 0.48g of carbohydrates (0% DV).
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 18g of total fat (23% DV), and a fried thigh with skin (136g) contains 24.6g (32% DV). One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 15.1g of total fat (19% DV), and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) contains 22.7g (29% DV). One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 15.5g of total fat (20% DV), and a fried thigh without skin (84g) contains 15.2g (19% DV). A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 19.3g of total fat (25% DV), and a large fried thigh (132g) contains 23.9g (31% DV). A small fried thigh (60g) contains 10.7g of total fat (14% DV). One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 32.1g of total fat (41% DV).
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) provides 0.39mcg of Vitamin D (2% DV). A fried thigh with skin (136g) provides 0.27mcg of Vitamin D (1% DV). One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) provides 0.22mcg of Vitamin D (1% DV), and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) provides 0.33mcg (2% DV). One roasted thigh without skin (112g) provides 0.34mcg of Vitamin D (2% DV), and a fried thigh without skin (84g) provides 0.17mcg (1% DV). A large grilled thigh (140g) provides 0.28mcg of Vitamin D (1% DV), and a large fried thigh (132g) provides 0.26mcg (1% DV). A small fried thigh (60g) provides 0.12mcg of Vitamin D (1% DV). One raw thigh with skin (193g) provides 0.19mcg of Vitamin D (1% DV).
One roasted thigh with skin (130g) contains 1.3mg of iron (7% DV) and 14.3mg of calcium (1% DV). A fried thigh with skin (136g) contains 1.4mg of iron (8% DV) and 73.4mg of calcium (6% DV). One grilled thigh with sauce (110g) contains 1.1mg of iron (6% DV) and 14.3mg of calcium (1% DV), and a cup of diced grilled thigh (165g) contains 1.6mg of iron (9% DV) and 21.5mg of calcium (2% DV). One roasted thigh without skin (112g) contains 1.1mg of iron (6% DV) and 12.3mg of calcium (1% DV), and a fried thigh without skin (84g) contains 0.84mg of iron (5% DV) and 45.4mg of calcium (3% DV). A large grilled thigh (140g) contains 1.4mg of iron (8% DV) and 18.2mg of calcium (1% DV), and a large fried thigh (132g) contains 1.3mg of iron (7% DV) and 71.3mg of calcium (5% DV). A small fried thigh (60g) contains 0.59mg of iron (3% DV) and 32.1mg of calcium (2% DV). One raw thigh with skin (193g) contains 1.3mg of iron (7% DV) and 13.5mg of calcium (1% DV).
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What are the Types of Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thigh types are defined by the presence of bone and skin and by the cooking method, which alters the final texture and nutritional values. The main preparations are Raw with Skin, Roasted with Skin, Skinless, and Fried. The table below outlines the features of these common forms.
| Type | Description | Calories (Approximate per 100g) | Calorie Qualifications |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Raw Chicken Thigh with Skin
|
Uncooked thigh with skin and bone intact. The base for most preparations. | 221 | The baseline calorie count before cooking alters the water and fat content. |
|
Roasted Chicken Thigh with Skin
|
Thigh cooked with dry heat in an oven, rendering fat and crisping the skin. | 214 | Cooking concentrates nutrients as water evaporates but also renders some fat, resulting in a slightly lower calorie density than raw. |
|
Roasted Chicken Thigh, Skinless
|
Thigh cooked and then skin removed, or cooked without skin. | 214 | The removal of the high-fat skin dramatically lowers the overall fat and calorie content compared to skin-on versions. |
|
Fried Chicken Thigh with Skin
|
Thigh coated in batter or flour and cooked in hot oil. | 274 | The frying process and coating add a significant number of calories from absorbed oil and carbohydrates. |
What are the Main Dishes With Chicken Thigh?
Chicken thighs are a favored cut for a wide variety of global dishes due to a rich flavor and moist texture. The table below details main dishes that use chicken thighs.
| Dish Name | Calories (Estimate per serving) | Type of Chicken Thigh | Carbs (g) (Estimate) | Sugar (g) (Estimate) | Protein (g) (Estimate) | Fat (g) (Estimate) | Cuisine | Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fried Chicken
|
650 (2 thighs) | Fried, Skin-on | 25 | 2 | 50 | 40 | Southern American | KFC |
|
Chicken Adobo
|
550 | Braised, Skin-on | 15 | 10 | 52 | 30 | Filipino | Jollibee |
|
Grilled Chicken Thighs
|
450 | Grilled, Skinless | 5 | 2 | 55 | 22 | American | El Pollo Loco |
|
Chicken Tikka Masala
|
750 | Grilled, Skinless | 40 | 15 | 50 | 45 | Anglo-Indian | Junoon (New York, NY) |
|
Coq au Vin
|
680 | Braised, Skin-on | 20 | 8 | 60 | 35 | French | Balthazar (New York, NY) |
|
Chicken Cacciatore
|
620 | Braised, Skin-on | 25 | 15 | 55 | 32 | Italian-American | Carmine's (New York, NY) |
|
Arroz con Pollo
|
700 | Braised, Skin-on | 80 | 5 | 45 | 25 | Latin American | Victor's Cafe (New York, NY) |
|
Jerk Chicken
|
580 | Grilled, Skin-on | 10 | 6 | 58 | 34 | Jamaican | Golden Krust |
|
Chicken Shawarma
|
650 (wrap) | Grilled, Skinless | 60 | 5 | 40 | 28 | Middle Eastern | The Halal Guys |
|
Chicken and Dumplings
|
720 | Stewed, Skinless | 65 | 5 | 45 | 33 | Southern American | Cracker Barrel |
What Cuisines Do Prefer Chicken Thigh Most?
Chicken thigh is a popular cut in cuisines that value moist, flavorful meat that holds up well to braising, stewing, and grilling, such as Filipino, French, and Southern American cooking. The table below shows cuisines that make prominent use of chicken thighs.
| Cuisine | Dish | Types of Chicken Thigh Used | Calories (Estimate) | Restaurant(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Southern American
|
Fried Chicken | Fried, Skin-on | 600-800 (per serving) | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (chain) |
|
Filipino
|
Chicken Adobo | Braised, Skin-on | 500-650 (per serving) | Red Ribbon Bakeshop |
|
French
|
Coq au Vin | Braised, Skin-on | 650-800 (per serving) | Le Diplomate (Washington, D.C.) |
|
Indian
|
Chicken Tikka Masala | Grilled, Skinless (Tandoor) | 700-900 (per serving) | Rasika (Washington, D.C.) |
|
Japanese
|
Chicken Teriyaki | Grilled, Skinless | 600-750 (per serving) | Benihana |
|
Chinese
|
Kung Pao Chicken | Stir-fried, Skinless | 750-950 (per serving) | P.F. Chang's |
|
Jamaican
|
Jerk Chicken | Grilled, Skin-on | 550-700 (per serving) | Miss Lily's (New York, NY) |
|
Latin American
|
Arroz con Pollo | Braised, Skin-on | 650-850 (per serving) | Pio Pio (New York, NY) |
|
Middle Eastern
|
Chicken Shawarma | Grilled, Skinless | 600-750 (per serving) | Naf Naf Grill (restaurant chain) |
|
Korean
|
Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-fried Chicken) | Stir-fried, Skinless | 700-900 (per serving) | Baekjeong (restaurant chain) |
Which Countries Produce the Most Chicken Thighs?
The top producers of chicken meat, the source of chicken thighs, are the United States, China, and Brazil. Specific global production data for "chicken thighs" is not tracked separately from the broader "chicken meat" category. The table below shows the production quantity of chicken meat in key countries.
| Country | 2003 | 2008 | 2013 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 15,278,000 | 16,654,000 | 17,351,000 | 19,568,000 | 20,174,000 | 20,430,000 | 20,625,000 | 21,050,000 |
| China | 9,150,000 | 10,950,000 | 12,680,000 | 14,150,000 | 14,600,000 | 15,100,000 | 15,400,000 | 15,700,000 |
| Brazil | 7,635,000 | 10,030,000 | 12,308,000 | 13,785,000 | 13,845,000 | 14,155,000 | 14,500,000 | 14,850,000 |
| Russian Federation | 1,060,000 | 2,180,000 | 3,090,000 | 4,280,000 | 4,520,000 | 4,730,000 | 4,780,000 | 4,850,000 |
| India | 1,480,000 | 2,450,000 | 3,440,000 | 3,900,000 | 4,100,000 | 4,250,000 | 4,350,000 | 4,450,000 |
Which Countries Consume the Most Chicken Thighs?
The top consumers of chicken meat, which includes chicken thighs, are the United States and China. Per capita consumption of chicken is highest in countries like the United States, Brazil, and Australia. Consumption data is best represented by domestic disappearance, a measure that accounts for production, imports, and exports.
| Country | 2013 | 2015 | 2017 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 15,100,000 | 15,800,000 | 16,500,000 | 17,200,000 | 17,500,000 | 17,800,000 | 18,100,000 |
| China | 12,500,000 | 12,800,000 | 13,200,000 | 14,400,000 | 14,900,000 | 15,200,000 | 15,500,000 |
| Brazil | 9,100,000 | 9,500,000 | 9,800,000 | 10,100,000 | 10,400,000 | 10,700,000 | 11,000,000 |
| India | 3,400,000 | 3,600,000 | 3,800,000 | 4,050,000 | 4,200,000 | 4,300,000 | 4,400,000 |
| Russian Federation | 3,050,000 | 3,250,000 | 3,450,000 | 4,450,000 | 4,650,000 | 4,700,000 | 4,750,000 |
How Do Prices of Chicken Thigh-Including Dishes Change?
Menu costs for dishes that feature chicken thighs have climbed over the last decade, reflecting higher wholesale poultry costs and greater expenses for labor and restaurant operations. Fast-casual and casual dining chains show these price adjustments on menus.
| Restaurant | Dish | Old Price (Year) | Current Price (2024/2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| KFC | 2 Pc. Thigh & Drum Meal | $5.99 (2015) | $8.49 - $10.99 |
| Popeyes | 2 Pc. Signature Chicken Combo | $6.49 (2016) | $9.39 - $11.49 |
| Panda Express | Orange Chicken Bowl | $6.80 (2017) | $8.60 - $10.50 |
| Chipotle | Chicken Burrito | $7.50 (2016) | $9.35 - $12.75 |
What is the Chicken Thigh Calorie for 100 Grams?
A 100g serving of roasted chicken thigh with skin contains 214 calories, while a grilled thigh with sauce has 232 calories, a roasted skinless thigh has 214 calories, and a raw thigh with skin contains 221 calories.
What is the Chicken Thigh Calorie for 1 KG?
One kilogram (1000g) of roasted chicken thighs with skin contains 2140 calories, a kilogram of grilled thighs with sauce has 2320 calories, a kilogram of roasted skinless thighs has 2140 calories, and a kilogram of raw thighs with skin contains 2210 calories.
What is the Calorie of 1 Chicken Thigh?
One medium roasted chicken thigh with skin contains 278 calories, while a KFC Original Recipe thigh has 250 calories, a Popeyes mild fried thigh contains 280 calories, and a Church's Texas Chicken fried thigh has 290 calories.
What are the Health Benefits of Chicken Thigh?
Chicken thighs offer a potent source of essential nutrients that support critical physiological functions like blood health and energy metabolism. Key advantages of eating chicken thighs are detailed below.
- Supports Blood Health. Chicken thigh meat is rich in heme iron, a highly bioavailable form of iron that is crucial for producing hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, and adequate iron intake helps prevent anemia. A review by Abbaspour, N., et al. (2014), "Review on iron and its importance for human health," confirmed the superior absorption of heme iron from animal sources for maintaining healthy iron levels.
- Boosts Immune Function. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of zinc, a mineral vital for a properly functioning immune system. Zinc is required for the development and activation of immune cells and plays a key role in regulating inflammatory responses. A study by Prasad, A. S. (2008), "Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells," demonstrated that sufficient zinc intake is essential for mounting an effective defense against infections.
- Enhances Energy Levels. Chicken thighs contain a high concentration of B vitamins, including Niacin (B3) and Vitamin B6. These vitamins are essential cofactors in the metabolic processes that convert food into energy, supporting cellular function and reducing fatigue. Research by Kennedy, D. O. (2016), "B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review," established the fundamental role of B vitamins in energy metabolism and overall neurological health.
What are the Downsides of Chicken Thigh?
Chicken thighs, especially when cooked with the skin, contain more saturated fat and cholesterol than leaner poultry cuts. Potential health concerns associated with eating chicken thighs are listed below.
- High Saturated Fat Content. The skin on chicken thighs is a primary source of saturated fat, which can lead to elevated LDL cholesterol levels when consumed in excess. A single roasted 130g thigh with skin contains 5.4g of saturated fat. A scientific advisory from the American Heart Association by Sacks, F. M., et al. (2017), "Dietary Fats and Cardiovascular Disease," recommended limiting saturated fat to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. An alternative with lower fat is a skinless chicken breast. A daily suggested amount is one to two medium thighs with the skin removed to manage fat intake.
- High Sodium in Processed Forms. Fried or pre-seasoned chicken thighs from restaurants and grocery stores can be extremely high in sodium. A single fried thigh from a fast-food establishment can contain over 1000mg of sodium. High sodium intake is a major contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease. A study by Mozaffarian, D., et al. (2014), "Global sodium consumption and death from cardiovascular causes," confirmed the association between high sodium diets and increased cardiovascular mortality. A lower-sodium alternative is to bake or grill plain thighs at home. A suggested serving size is one to two thighs to control sodium consumption.
Are Chicken Thighs Good for You?
Yes, chicken thighs are a good food choice when prepared without the skin and cooked using methods like baking or grilling, because dark meat is a nutrient-dense source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The nutritional composition supports bone health through a rich supply of phosphorus, which is a critical mineral for building and maintaining the bone matrix. A review by Takeda, E., et al. (2004), "The regulation and function of phosphate in the human body," details the essential role of phosphorus in skeletal integrity. The nutrient profile also supports brain health. The presence of choline in chicken thighs is important for neurotransmitter synthesis and memory function, as outlined in a study by Poly, C., et al. (2011), "The relation of dietary choline to cognitive performance and white-matter hyperintensity in the Framingham Offspring Cohort." The mineral content aids heart health. Chicken thighs contain more monounsaturated fat than chicken breasts, a type of fat that can help improve blood cholesterol levels when replacing saturated fats, a benefit detailed in research by Li, Y., et al. (2015), "Saturated fats compared with unsaturated fats and sources of carbohydrates in relation to risk of coronary heart disease: A prospective cohort study."
How Do Calories Change According to Chicken Thigh Types?
The caloric value of a chicken thigh changes significantly depending on the presence of skin and the cooking method. The lowest calorie count is found in a raw, skinless chicken thigh, which contains 109 calories per 100 grams. The highest calorie count belongs to a Fried Chicken Thigh with skin and breading, which has 274 calories per 100 grams. This substantial increase is due to the absorption of cooking oil and the addition of a flour-based coating. A raw thigh with skin contains 221 calories per 100 grams. When this same thigh is roasted, the calorie count drops to 214 calories per 100 grams because the dry-heat cooking process renders out a portion of the fat from the skin, reducing the final energy density.
What are the Desserts With Chicken Thigh?
Chicken thighs are a savory food not used as an ingredient for desserts. The flavor of chicken is unsuitable for sweet dishes. Culinary traditions sometimes pair chicken thighs with sweet glazes or sauces in savory main courses.
What is the Origin of Chicken Thigh?
The culinary focus on the chicken thigh as a specific cut is a product of 20th-century butchery and consumer habits. Historically, chickens were cooked and consumed whole. The industrialization of the poultry industry in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, led to the widespread practice of portioning chickens into individual cuts for retail sale. The thigh, along with the drumstick, was marketed as dark meat. Due to a higher fat content and more pronounced flavor compared to the breast, the thigh became a favorite for preparations requiring moistness and richness. Southern American cuisine has long celebrated the thigh in iconic dishes like fried chicken, where the dark meat's juiciness is a key attribute. Similarly, many global cuisines, from French Coq au Vin to Filipino Chicken Adobo, traditionally use bone-in, skin-on dark meat cuts like the thigh because they hold up well to long, slow cooking methods without drying out.