Chicken: what you should know

Chicken is considered as healthy food as its loaded with protein, but different part of poultry don’t have same nutrition facts and preparation methods may change caloric content.

Rotisserie chicken is an easy meal for people who don’t have time, but thinking about its caloric content may change your choices, 3ounces provides 160 calories and people usually eat much more, in addition to its preparation method when its soaked in butter or oil.

Skin is a fatty part of chicken and its high in calories according to USDA, single ounce of soaked skin provides 128 calories and 11 grams of fat. So, you can reduce intake of fat by simply removing the skin.

Health benefits of eating chicken:

We know that chicken provides a good source of protein and low fat. In addition, it provides selenium, B6, niacin and phosphorus. The way you choose cooking method and preparations you choose chicken to be low or high in sodium.

You may prepare chicken with rice, add it to pasta or salad and soup.

Healthy cooking and safe temperature:

Use of meat thermometer is important to check internal temperature. You should place the thermometer in the thickest part of chicken.

· A whole roasted chicken should reach an internal temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Drumsticks, thighs, legs and wings should also reach an internal temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Boneless chicken should reach an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit

Be sure to clean any surface especially when you are preparing raw chicken: knifes and cutting board. In addition, it is recommended to use plastic cutting boards because they can be treated with high temperature.

Best way to prepare chicken:

Method of cooking chicken and sauces that can be added can add more calories and fat to your meals.

The best ways for preparing chicken are: Boiling, roasting sand broiling rather than frying and sautéing methods that add calories and fat.

Sources:

https://www.verywellfit.com/calorie-counts-for-different-parts-of-chicken-

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a47356/sweet-chili-lime-grilled-chicken-recipe/