Calories in Chicken Breast

How Many Calories Are in Chicken Breast?

Skinless chicken breast is the gold standard of lean protein. A 3-ounce (85-gram) cooked serving has about 128 calories, a 4-ounce serving about 170 calories, and a full medium breast (around 174 grams) about 284 calories. By weight, cooked skinless chicken breast is roughly 165 calories per 100 grams.

The calories come almost entirely from protein, with very little fat and zero carbohydrate. That makes chicken breast one of the most protein-dense, low-calorie whole foods you can build a meal around.

Chicken Breast Calories by Serving Size

Serving	Amount	Calories	Protein (g)	Fat (g)	Carbs (g)
3 oz cooked, skinless	85g	~128	26	2.7	0
4 oz cooked, skinless	113g	~170	35	3.6	0
Medium breast, skinless	~174g	~284	53	6	0
100 grams cooked, skinless	100g	~165	31	3.6	0
3 oz cooked, with skin	85g	~166	25	6.6	0

These numbers are for grilled, baked or boiled chicken breast. Breading and frying can double the calories, and oily or sugary sauces add more, so the cooking method matters more than the meat.

Macros and Nutrition in Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is prized for delivering a huge amount of complete protein with minimal fat. A 3-ounce serving provides about 26 grams of protein for only around 128 calories. It also supplies niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, selenium and small amounts of potassium and magnesium.

Because it is so lean and carb-free, chicken breast fits virtually every dietary pattern, from low-carb and keto to high-protein muscle-building plans. The protein is highly satiating and supports muscle maintenance and recovery, which is why it is a staple for athletes and dieters alike.

Skinless vs Skin-On and Cooking Methods

Removing the skin is the single biggest lever on chicken breast calories, cutting roughly 50 calories and 5 grams of fat per serving. After that, the cooking method dominates: grilling, baking, poaching and air-frying keep calories low, while deep-frying, heavy breading and creamy sauces can easily double them. A plain grilled breast is far leaner than a breaded fried fillet of the same weight.

Is Chicken Breast Good for Weight Loss?

Chicken breast is arguably the most popular weight-loss protein for good reason. Its high protein content keeps you full, supports muscle retention during a calorie deficit, and fits almost any macro target. To keep it diet-friendly, choose skinless breast, cook it without breading, and flavor it with herbs, spices, citrus or low-calorie marinades rather than rich sauces.