A medium-sized, skinless, baked or fried coated chicken drumstick contains approximately 120 calories. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's helpful to know the nutritional information of the foods you eat. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the calorie count, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, vitamins, minerals, cooking methods, serving size, and health benefits of a coated chicken drumstick.

Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body. However, chicken also contains fat and sodium, depending on how it's prepared. Knowing the nutritional value of chicken drumsticks can help you make better food choices and maintain a balanced diet.

Whether you prefer baked or fried coated chicken drumsticks, there are ways to make them healthier. By using skinless chicken and baking instead of frying, you can reduce the fat and calorie content without sacrificing taste.

Calories: How Many Are in a Coated Chicken Drumstick?

A medium-sized, skinless, baked or fried coated chicken drumstick contains approximately 120 calories. However, the exact number of calories may vary depending on the cooking method and type of coating used. If you're trying to manage your weight, it's important to keep track of your calorie intake. You can use a food diary or app to monitor your daily calorie consumption and make adjustments as needed. To reduce the calorie count of a coated chicken drumstick, you can remove the skin and choose a low-fat coating, such as breadcrumbs or cornmeal.

Nutrition Facts: What Are They?

In addition to calories, there are other important nutritional components to consider when eating a coated chicken drumstick. One drumstick contains approximately 8 grams of fat, 15 grams of protein, and 2 grams of carbohydrates. Chicken is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. However, the presence of skin and added coatings can increase the sodium content of the drumstick, which can be harmful for individuals with high blood pressure. To get the most nutritional value from a coated chicken drumstick, choose skinless, lean cuts and avoid high-sodium coatings.

Carbohydrates: How Many Grams Are in a Serving?

One coated chicken drumstick contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates. This makes chicken a good option for low-carb diets or individuals who are monitoring their carb intake. It's important to note that carbohydrates provide energy for your body, and they are necessary for brain function and physical activity. However, consuming too many carbs can lead to weight gain and other health issues. To maintain a healthy balance of carbohydrates in your diet, it's recommended that you choose complex, whole-grain carbs, such as brown rice or quinoa, over refined carbs, such as white bread or pasta.

Protein: How Much Does a Drumstick Provide?

Chicken is a good source of protein, and one coated drumstick contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body, as well as maintaining a healthy immune system. In addition, protein can help you feel full for longer periods of time, which can aid in weight management. To maximize the nutritional value of a coated chicken drumstick, choose skinless chicken and pair it with a variety of vegetables and whole grains.

Fat: What Is the Content of Fat in a Coated Chicken Drumstick?

One coated chicken drumstick contains approximately 8 grams of fat. However, the type of fat in chicken can vary depending on how it's prepared. Saturated and trans fats should be limited in your diet, as they can increase your risk for heart disease and other health issues. Instead, choose lean cuts of chicken and avoid fried or heavily coated options. To reduce the fat content of a coated chicken drumstick, remove the skin before eating and choose healthy cooking methods, such as baking or grilling.

Sodium: How Much Salt Is in One Drumstick?

The sodium content of a coated chicken drumstick can vary depending on the type of coating used. However, one drumstick generally contains approximately 300 milligrams of sodium. Excessive sodium intake can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. To reduce your intake, choose uncoated or lightly coated chicken, and avoid processed or pre-packaged foods with high sodium content. To add flavor to your coated chicken drumstick without adding excess sodium, try using herbs and spices, such as garlic, rosemary, or paprika.

Vitamins and Minerals: What Does a Coated Drumstick Offer?

In addition to protein, chicken provides a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health. One coated chicken drumstick contains approximately 10% of the daily value for vitamin B6, 16% for vitamin B12, 6% for iron, and 4% for zinc. To maximize the nutritional value of your coated chicken drumstick, pair it with a variety of colorful vegetables and whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa.

Cooking Methods: Baking vs Frying

The cooking method used for your coated chicken drumstick can significantly impact its nutritional value. Baking or grilling chicken is a healthier option than frying, as it reduces the fat content and eliminates the need for added oil. In addition, baked or grilled chicken tends to have a more natural flavor and texture, allowing the chicken itself to shine through. To bake or grill your coated chicken drumstick, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the drumsticks on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.

Serving Size: What Is It?

A medium-sized, skinless, baked or fried coated chicken drumstick is considered one serving. It's important to pay attention to serving sizes, as consuming too many calories or too much sodium can have negative effects on your health. To maintain a balanced diet, aim to eat a variety of foods in appropriate serving sizes. To reduce your calorie and sodium intake, pair your coated chicken drumstick with a variety of colorful vegetables and whole grains.

Health Benefits: Are There Any?

Chicken is a good source of protein, and it can provide a variety of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. A diet rich in protein can aid in weight loss and maintenance, as it can help you feel full for longer periods of time. In addition, protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body, as well as maintaining a healthy immune system. To maximize the health benefits of your coated chicken drumstick, choose lean cuts of chicken, remove the skin, and pair it with a variety of colorful vegetables and whole grains.