Chicken Wings — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 203 kcal
Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Carbs | 0 g | - |
Fiber | 0 g | - |
Sugars | 0 g | - |
Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
Protein | 31 g | 62% |
Sodium | 87 mg | 3.78% |
Total Fat | 8 | 10.26% |
*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.
31 g
💪 High Protein Content
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Rich in flavor due to their fat content, making them a tasty and satisfying option.
- Versatile in preparation, allowing for a variety of cooking methods and seasonings to suit different tastes.
- Can be part of a balanced diet when paired with healthy sides like vegetables or a salad.
Health risks
- High fat content especially if fried or coated in high-calorie sauces, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and heart disease if consumed frequently.
- High sodium content in many preparations, particularly when coated in salty sauces or seasonings, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, especially if the chicken is not properly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Potential for overconsumption due to the small size and tasty nature of chicken wings, leading to excessive calorie intake.
How to choose chicken wings
For chicken wings, seek out pieces that have a good skin-to-meat ratio and are free from excess moisture. The skin should be intact and not torn, which helps them crisp up better when cooked.
Avoid chicken wings that appear discolored or have an off smell. Quality wings should feel plump and spring back slightly when pressed.
How to store chicken wings
Refrigerate chicken wings and use within two days for optimal freshness. Keep them in an airtight container or their original packaging. Freezing can extend their storage life up to six months.
Improper sealing can result in freezer burn, affecting quality. Make sure wings are well-sealed in a container. Thawing and refreezing should be avoided to maintain their texture. Clean handling practices are necessary to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Chicken wings can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, chicken wings 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 wings can be used in a variety of flavorful dishes. Shred the meat and add it to salads, wraps, or sandwiches, or mix it into a pasta dish with a creamy sauce. Chicken wings are also great in soups, stews, or casseroles, where their tender meat adds flavor and richness.
Use chicken wings in a stir-fry with vegetables and rice, or toss them with barbecue sauce for a pulled chicken sandwich. If you have a lot of wings, consider making a batch of buffalo chicken dip or using the meat in a chicken and rice bake. The wing meat can also be added to a quiche or frittata for a savory breakfast or brunch. For a quick snack, reheat the wings and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, or chop the meat and use it as a topping for nachos or pizzas.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How chicken wings support specific health conditions
Chicken wings are a popular source of protein, supporting muscle health and tissue repair. When prepared without excessive breading or frying, they can be a flavorful and satisfying option. Wings are also rich in B vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, supporting bone health and brain function. Pairing wings with vegetable sides and healthier cooking methods, such as grilling or baking, can contribute to heart health and weight management.
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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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