Chicken Leg Meat

Chicken Leg Meat: How Many Calories? Nutrition Facts and Benefits

Chicken leg meat (thigh and drumstick) is prized for its juicy texture and rich flavor. As a darker cut, it’s tender, versatile, and holds up well to grilling, roasting, braising, or air-frying. Popular across global cuisines, it pairs easily with spices, herbs, and marinades. Nutrition values below reflect cooked, skinless leg meat and may vary with cooking method, skin-on/off, and seasoning.

Calories and Nutrition Facts (Average)

Health Benefits of Chicken Leg Meat

• High-quality complete protein that supports muscle repair and maintenance.
• Rich in B vitamins (especially niacin/B3 and B6) for energy metabolism.
• Provides essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and iron.
• Dark meat contains more myoglobin, offering robust flavor and satiety.
• When cooked with minimal added fat and sodium, it fits well in balanced diets.

Tips for Enjoying Chicken Leg Meat

• Choose skinless cuts to lower overall fat; keep skin on for flavor if desired and drain excess fat.
• Use dry rubs or marinades (garlic, chili, paprika, thyme, lemon) to boost flavor without excess calories.
• Opt for roasting, grilling, baking, or air-frying instead of deep-frying.
• Limit added salt; rely on herbs, spices, citrus, and yogurt-based marinades for seasoning.
• Pair with vegetables, whole grains, or salads to create a balanced meal.
• Cook to a safe internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and rest a few minutes before serving.