Chicken Chunks — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 237 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 0 g | - |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 35 g | 70% |
| Sodium | 82 mg | 3.57% |
| Total Fat | 10 | 12.82% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
35 g
💪 High Protein Content
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Low in fat when prepared without the skin, making it a lean source of protein.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
- Versatile in cooking, allowing for easy incorporation into a variety of dishes.
Health risks
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, particularly if the chicken is not properly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- High sodium content in some pre-seasoned or processed chicken chunks, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Potential for preservatives and additives in processed chicken products, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Risk of foodborne illness if chicken chunks are not properly stored, handled, or cooked, leading to potential food poisoning.
How to choose chicken chunks
When selecting pre-cooked chicken chunks, ensure they have a consistent golden-brown color and a moist texture. The meat should be tender and easily pull apart, indicating proper cooking.
Avoid chicken chunks that look dry or have an uneven color, which can suggest uneven cooking or old product. Quality chicken chunks should have a fresh smell and no visible freezer burn.
How to store chicken chunks
Refrigeration is essential for chicken chunks. Store them in an airtight container and use within two days for the best quality. Freezing is recommended for longer storage, up to six months.
Moisture and improper sealing can cause chicken chunks to spoil. Avoid leaving them uncovered in the fridge. Use a sealed container to keep them fresh and prevent contamination. Proper handling and clean utensils ensure safety and maintain quality.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Chicken chunks can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, chicken chunks can be frozen for up to 9 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain their quality over longer storage periods.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken chunks can be used in a variety of quick and easy dishes. Add them to salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a protein boost, or mix them into a pasta dish with a creamy sauce. Chicken chunks are also great in stir-fries with vegetables and rice.
Use chicken chunks in a casserole with cheese and vegetables, or toss them with barbecue sauce for a pulled chicken sandwich. If you have a lot of chicken chunks, consider making a batch of chicken tacos or using them in a chicken and rice bake. Chicken chunks can also be added to a quiche or frittata for a savory breakfast or brunch. For a quick snack, try mixing chicken chunks with buffalo sauce and serving with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How chicken chunks support specific health conditions
Chicken chunks provide high-quality protein, promoting muscle health and aiding in tissue repair. Their low-fat content, especially when skinless, makes them ideal for heart health and weight management. Chicken chunks are also a good source of B vitamins, supporting brain function and energy metabolism. Pairing them with vegetables or whole grains enhances their nutritional value, contributing to immune health and overall well-being.
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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