Have you ever grabbed a juicy chicken drumstick and wondered exactly how many calories you’re about to enjoy? Well, I’ve been there too! As someone who loves good food but also tries to keep track of my nutrition, I wanted to create this comprehensive guide about chicken drumstick calories
The Quick Answer
A medium chicken drumstick with skin contains about 105 calories. But there’s actually a lot more to it depending on how it’s prepared and whether you eat the skin or not.
Chicken Drumstick Calories: Size Matters
The size of your drumstick makes a big difference in its calorie content. Here’s what I found:
With Skin:
- Small drumstick: 81 calories
- Medium drumstick: 105 calories
- Large drumstick: 139 calories
Without Skin:
- Small drumstick: 55 calories
- Medium drumstick: 72 calories
- Large drumstick: 94 calories
I was actually surprised by how much difference removing the skin makes! If you’re watching your calories, simply removing the skin can save you about 30-45 calories per drumstick
How Cooking Methods Affect Calories
The way you cook your chicken drumsticks definitely affects the calorie count. Let’s break it down:
Drumsticks With Skin (1 drumstick serving):
- Roasted: 112 calories
- Fried: 120 calories
- Stewed: 116 calories
Drumsticks Without Skin (1 drumstick serving):
- Roasted: 76 calories
- Fried: 82 calories
- Stewed: 78 calories
No shock that fried drumsticks have the most calories, but I was surprised that the difference wasn’t bigger! Still, if you’re calorie-counting, roasted drumsticks without skin are your best bet.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Medium Chicken Drumstick (with skin)
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what’s actually in that drumstick
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 105 | – |
| Total Fat | 5.42g | 7% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.482g | 7% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.215g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2.065g | – |
| Cholesterol | 44mg | 15% |
| Sodium | 202mg | 9% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 13.13g | – |
| Iron | 0.65mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 111mg | 2% |
What really stands out to me is that chicken drumsticks are:
- High in protein (over 13g in a medium drumstick!)
- Contain zero carbs
- Relatively low in calories compared to other protein sources
Portion Size Considerations
Sometimes we need to think beyond just a single drumstick. Here are some other common serving sizes:
-
4 oz with bone (with skin): 163 calories
-
4 oz boneless (with skin): 243 calories
-
1 cup (with skin): 289 calories
-
4 oz with bone (without skin): 116 calories
-
4 oz boneless (without skin): 178 calories
-
1 cup (without skin): 231 calories
I find it helpful to know these measurements when I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week.
Are Chicken Drumsticks Healthy?
So, are drumsticks a healthy choice? Here’s my take:
Pros:
- High in protein: Great for muscle building and satiety
- Zero carbs: Perfect for low-carb or keto diets
- Budget-friendly: One of the most affordable cuts of chicken
- Good source of vitamins and minerals: Particularly B vitamins and iron
Cons:
- Higher in fat than chicken breast: Especially if eaten with skin
- Relatively high in cholesterol: A medium drumstick provides 15% of your daily value
- Can be high in sodium: Especially if pre-seasoned or from fast food places
Comparing Drumsticks to Other Chicken Cuts
Let’s see how drumsticks stack up against other popular chicken cuts:
| Chicken Cut (3.5 oz/100g) | Calories | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drumstick (with skin) | ~105 | ~13g | ~5.4g |
| Breast (without skin) | ~165 | ~31g | ~3.6g |
| Thigh (with skin) | ~209 | ~16g | ~16g |
| Wing (with skin) | ~290 | ~27g | ~19g |
I always found it interesting that wings are actually the highest calorie part of the chicken! Those little things really pack in the calories.
Fast Food Chicken Drumsticks
Many of us grab chicken drumsticks from popular fast food chains. Here’s how they compare:
- KFC Kentucky Grilled Chicken Drumstick: Lower calorie option
- KFC Spicy Crispy Chicken Drumstick: Higher in calories due to breading and frying
- Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits Leg Classic: Also higher in calories than home-cooked options
In general, fast food versions will have more calories, fat, and sodium than homemade versions because of the breading, oil, and seasonings used.
Tips for Lower-Calorie Drumsticks
If you’re trying to enjoy drumsticks while keeping calories in check, here are some of my favorite tips:
- Remove the skin – This can save 30-45 calories per drumstick
- Bake or grill instead of frying – Reduces added fat
- Use a rack when baking – Allows fat to drip away
- Try an air fryer – Gives crispy texture with less oil
- Use herbs and spices instead of breading – Adds flavor without calories
- Pat dry before cooking – Helps get crispier skin if you do keep it on
Delicious Low-Calorie Drumstick Recipes
Here are a couple of my go-to recipes that keep the calories in check but maximize flavor:
Herb-Roasted Drumsticks
- 6 chicken drumsticks (skin removed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients, coat drumsticks, and bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes. About 85-90 calories per drumstick.
Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Drumsticks
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Mix seasonings, coat drumsticks, and air fry at 380°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway. Around 110-115 calories per drumstick if you keep the skin on.
Special Dietary Considerations
If you’re following a specific diet, here’s how drumsticks fit in:
- Keto/Low-carb: Excellent choice (0g carbs)
- Paleo: Great option (natural, unprocessed)
- High-protein: Good source of protein (13g+ per drumstick)
- Weight Watchers: Points vary based on preparation method
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free (watch out for seasonings)
Tracking Your Drumstick Calories
If you’re tracking your food intake, here are some tips for accuracy:
- Weigh raw vs. cooked – Remember that weight decreases during cooking
- Account for skin – Make note if you eat or remove it
- Consider cooking method – Log as roasted, fried, etc.
- Check portion size – Is it really a “medium” drumstick?
Interesting Drumstick Facts
Did you know:
- The drumstick is actually the lower part of the chicken’s leg
- It’s called a “drumstick” because it resembles a percussion drumstick
- Drumsticks are dark meat, which is why they have more fat but also more flavor than breast meat
- A typical chicken has only 2 drumsticks (obvious but sometimes forgotten!)
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – everything you ever wanted to know about chicken drumstick calories!
To recap the most important points:
- A medium chicken drumstick with skin has about 105 calories
- Removing the skin reduces calories to around 72 for a medium drumstick
- Cooking method matters – roasting is lower calorie than frying
- Drumsticks are zero carb, high protein, and moderate fat
Personally, I think chicken drumsticks are one of the best values in the protein world – they’re affordable, delicious, and relatively low in calories compared to other meats. Plus, there’s something satisfying about eating food you can hold in your hand!
Next time you’re enjoying a tasty drumstick, you’ll know exactly what nutrition you’re getting. And remember – occasionally enjoying a higher-calorie fried drumstick with skin is perfectly fine as part of a balanced diet. Food is meant to be enjoyed!
What’s your favorite way to prepare chicken drumsticks? Do you keep the skin on or off? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Protein content of chicken drumsticks
Protein is one of the most talked-about nutrients when it comes to fitness and general health. Chicken drumsticks are a solid source of this muscle-boosting macronutrient, making them a favourite among gym-goers and athletes alike. Heres why chicken drumsticks are a protein powerhouse:
- Muscle repair and growth: Protein repairs and builds muscle tissue, making chicken drumsticks ideal for anyone focusing on fitness.
- Protein vs. other cuts: Chicken drumsticks offer roughly 24 grams of protein per 100 grams, slightly less than chicken breast, but they deliver more flavour.
- Fitness-friendly: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can benefit from the balance of protein and fat in chicken drumsticks, providing both energy and muscle fuel.
Whether youre hitting the gym or just want to add more protein to your diet, chicken drumsticks make an excellent choice.
How many calories do chicken drumsticks have?
Calories are often top of mind for anyone watching their diet, and chicken drumsticks offer a moderate calorie count, depending on how you cook them. Heres a breakdown:
- Calories with skin: A chicken drumstick with skin contains approximately 216 calories per 100 grams.
- Calories without skin: Opting for skinless chicken drumsticks reduces the calorie count to around 172 per 100 grams.
- Cooking methods: Frying chicken drumsticks can significantly increase the calorie count due to added oil, whereas air frying keeps it lower, allowing you to enjoy crispy chicken with fewer calories.
- Portion control: For those keeping an eye on their calorie intake, portion control is important. Stick to two drumsticks per meal and pair them with vegetables for a balanced plate.
By choosing the right cooking method and keeping portions in check, chicken drumsticks can fit easily into a calorie-conscious diet.
Chicken drumsticks and my blood sugar. #bloodsugar #insulinresistance #glucose
FAQ
How many calories are in a chicken drumstick?
The calorie content of a chicken drumstick varies depending on preparation, weight, and whether the skin is left on or removed. A medium drumstick with the skin contains approximately 175-220 calories, while a skinless drumstick has closer to 160-200 calories.
Are chicken drumsticks fattening?
Chicken drumsticks contain more fat when the skin is left on, with about 8–12 grams of fat per serving. Removing the skin significantly reduces the fat content, making them a leaner protein source. The fat in chicken skin is primarily unsaturated, but it does contribute to a higher calorie count. Is the skin on chicken drumsticks healthy?
How many chicken drumsticks are in a serving?
If you’re meal planning or calorie counting and you need to know how many chicken drumsticks are in a serving, then here’s the information: The recommended portion size of chicken drumsticks is two drumsticks per person. This is equal to around 60-90g/2.1-3.2oz of chicken meat per serving.
How much does a chicken drumstick weigh?
Chicken drumstick weights vary depending on the size of the chicken they came from, a smaller raw drumstick (with the skin on) weighs around 90g/3.17oz and a large drumstick can weigh anywhere up to 150g/5.29oz. Use the table to find more conversion weights of one average-sized raw chicken drumstick with the skin on.
How much protein is in chicken drumstick meat?
A 3-ounce serving of chicken drumstick meat (without the skin) provides about 20 grams of protein. 3 ounces is not a lot, either! Proteins do a lot, but you can think of one use-case as the bricks that rebuild your house after damage – it’s indispensable for structural integrity.
How many calories are in a skin-on chicken drumstick?
A skin-on cooked chicken drumstick contains about 200-250 calories per serving compared to skinless options that hover around 175 calories. If you’re watching your caloric intake but still want that crispy texture when cooking at home, consider removing the skin before cooking or opting for skinless varieties available at grocery stores.
How many calories are in 1 chicken drumstick with skin?
A chicken drumstick with skin contains around 200 to 216 calories for a standard serving, depending on the size and cooking method. For example, a large drumstick may have approximately 139 calories, a medium drumstick about 113 calories, and a 3.5-ounce serving of a cooked, skin-on drumstick can contain around 216 calories.
Why are chicken drumsticks so high in calories?
Chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs) are higher in calories than chicken breast due to their higher fat content, particularly in the “dark meat” from which they are sourced. Additionally, calories increase with the addition of chicken skin, which contains a significant amount of fat, and with added oils, butter, sauces, or breading used during cooking.
How many calories in a whole chicken drumstick?
Chicken drumstick: 149 calories
One skinless, boneless chicken drumstick (96 g) contains : Calories: 149. Protein: 23.2 g.
How many calories do 2 chicken drumsticks have?
Two chicken drumsticks can contain approximately 140 to 283 calories, with the exact number depending on the size of the drumsticks and whether they are prepared with or without skin and fat. For example, two large, baked or broiled drumsticks with skin can have about 224-283 calories, while two smaller, cooked drumsticks with skin can have around 140-163 calories.