What is this food?
Chicken breast is a lean cut of chicken meat. It’s mainly a protein food, with very little fat and no carbohydrates (so it’s a good choice for building and maintaining muscle).
Why it matters to health
With about 131 kcal per 100 g, chicken breast helps you meet your daily protein needs without adding much carbs. The 5 g total fat (with 1.44 g saturated fat) supports normal body functions, while the 35 mg cholesterol is relatively moderate for a meat serving. It also has 66 mg sodium—not too high by itself, but it can rise a lot if you use salty marinades or sauces. Since it has 0 g sugar and 0 g fiber, pair it with vegetables and whole grains to complete your meal for better fullness and balanced nutrition.
Healthier tips
- For meals: aim for a palm-sized portion of chicken breast, then add 1–2 cups of vegetables and a sensible serving of rice or other carbs.
- If you’re having it as a snack, keep it smaller (about 1/2 palm) and pair with fruit or veggies.
- Use flavor with garlic, onion, herbs, lemon, vinegar, and spices instead of heavy salty sauces.
- Try cooking methods like boiling, steaming, grilling, or baking to keep added oil low.
- Because it has no fiber, don’t skip veggies—fiber helps with digestion and helps you feel satisfied.
Common Filipino dishes
Chicken adobo, Chicken inasal, Tinola (with chicken breast), Chicken curry, Chicken sisig (lighter version)