Chicken meals: how much protein do they actually contain?

If you train a lot, you've probably heard it before: chicken belongs in your diet. “It's full of protein!” But what's the story exactly? And how do we at SportMeals make use of it? In this blog, we're happy to tell you more about our high-protein food and the big role chicken plays in it. What are the benefits? What should you look out for? And do we have any tips? Of course! Keep reading.

THE BASICS: PROTEIN AND CHICKEN?

Chicken is a popular and healthy source of protein that many people eat. It is a lean protein source and is easy to add to all kinds of meals. Protein is an essential nutrient that our body needs for various functions, including building, maintaining and repairing tissue, muscles included. Chicken is a rich source of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids that our body needs to build and maintain muscle. But how much protein is in chicken? A 100 g portion of chicken contains about 30 g of protein.

CHICKEN PROTEIN: A LEAN PROTEIN SOURCE

We call chicken a lean protein source. That's because it is relatively low in saturated fat and calories compared with other protein sources, such as red meat. So it's a good option if you want to limit your saturated fat intake and still get enough protein. You can prepare chicken in different ways, and that makes an important difference. Try pan-frying, grilling or steaming the chicken instead of deep-frying it, to reduce your intake of excess fat and calories.

TIPS FOR ATHLETES

If you're looking for ways to include chicken protein in your sports nutrition plan, here are a few handy tips:

• Choose lean chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean protein source and contains even less fat and fewer calories than other parts of the chicken. Try to choose lean chicken breast and cut off any visible fat before you cook it.

• Make a chicken stew: Chicken stews are a tasty and easy way to get chicken protein into your meal plan. Try making a stew with chicken, vegetables and stock, and add herbs or spices for extra flavour if you like.

• Use chicken instead of red meat: Chicken can be a healthier alternative to red meat. Try using chicken instead of mince in spaghetti sauce, or instead of beef in a taco or burrito.

SPORTMEALS MEALS WITH CHICKEN PROTEIN

If you're looking for a handy and healthy way to increase your chicken protein intake, it's smart to take a look at our sports meals with chicken. These meals are put together especially for athletes and contain the right balance of protein, carbs and fat to help you reach your fitness goals. They're also quick and easy to prepare: in no time, you're enjoying a tasty, healthy meal.

EXAMPLE OF A CHICKEN MEAL

Curious what a healthy, easy chicken meal looks like? Take our Chicken pesto spaghetti with broccoli. The benefits at a glance:

• Taste the Italian flavours

• A true classic

• With fibre-rich wholemeal spaghetti

This 380 g portion contains 42 g of protein! Whether you're trying to lose weight, get lean or build muscle: this tasty combination is available for every type of goal.