Chicken, broilers or fryers, back
Category: Poultry Products Parts: Meat And Skin Method: Cooked, Roasted
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
96
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 60 (62.8%) |
| Protein | 33 (34.5%) |
| Total | 96 (100%) |
Serving: 1 unit (yield from 1 lb ready-to-cook chicken) [32g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 17 (53.5%) |
| Protein | 8.3 (26.0%) |
| Fat | 6.7 (21.0%) |
| Ash | 0.3 (0.9%) |
| Total | 32 (100%) |
Serving: 1 unit (yield from 1 lb ready-to-cook chicken) [32g]
Benefits
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High in protein. Chicken provides lean protein that can help support muscle growth and maintenance
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Contains B vitamins. Chicken is a good source of niacin, riboflavin, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 which are important for energy production and red blood cell formation
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Provides selenium. Chicken contains the mineral selenium which is an antioxidant and plays a role in thyroid function
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Low in fat. The meat and skin of chicken contains fat but is lower in fat than other meats like beef or pork
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Versatile cooking method. Roasting chicken is a simple cooking method that helps retain moisture and flavor
Risks
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High in saturated fat and cholesterol due to skin and fat content. Eating too much can increase risk of heart disease
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Frying method increases fat content from skin and meat absorbing oil during cooking. This adds more saturated fat and calories
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If roasted at very high temperature, the meat can develop heterocyclic amines which are potential carcinogens
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Depending on quality of meat and handling, there is a risk of foodborne illness such as salmonella infection
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High protein content places increased burden on kidneys, especially for those with pre-existing kidney conditions
Additional Information
Chicken, specifically broilers or fryers, back meat and skin that is cooked and roasted, offers a range of nutritional benefits and risks. This food product is rich in protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, but it also contains saturated fats that can contribute to health concerns if consumed excessively.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, chicken back meat and skin provide a high-quality source of protein. Protein is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair, enzyme and hormone production, and maintaining a healthy immune system. Consuming adequate protein is particularly important for individuals involved in physical activity or those looking to build or maintain muscle mass.
Chicken back meat and skin are also good sources of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains B-vitamins such as niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6, which play vital roles in energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation. Additionally, chicken provides minerals like phosphorus, selenium, and zinc, which are involved in bone health, immune function, and wound healing.
Moreover, chicken back meat and skin are relatively low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for individuals following low-carb diets or those aiming to control their blood sugar levels. This makes chicken a suitable option for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their weight.
However, it is important to note that chicken back meat and skin contain saturated fats, which can contribute to health risks if consumed excessively. Saturated fats have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, as they can raise levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood. Therefore, it is advisable to consume chicken in moderation and opt for leaner cuts or remove the skin to reduce saturated fat intake.
To further enhance the nutritional benefits and minimize risks, it is recommended to prepare chicken by roasting rather than frying. Roasting helps retain more nutrients compared to frying, as it requires less added fat and prevents excessive nutrient loss due to high heat exposure. Additionally, seasoning with herbs and spices instead of using excessive salt or high-calorie sauces can further enhance the healthiness of the dish.
In conclusion, chicken back meat and skin, specifically broilers or fryers, cooked and roasted, offer several nutritional benefits. It is a valuable source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals necessary for overall health and well-being. However, caution should be exercised due to the presence of saturated fats. Moderation and choosing leaner cuts or removing the skin can help mitigate the risks associated with excessive saturated fat intake. By opting for healthier cooking methods like roasting and using flavorful spices, chicken can be enjoyed as a nutritious part of a balanced diet.