Chicken drumsticks are a tasty, protein-rich part of the bird that many people enjoy baked, grilled, or fried. Whether you're meal prepping or just curious, knowing how many calories are in a chicken drumstick can help you make informed dietary choices.
Here’s a breakdown of the calories in chicken drumsticks, depending on size, cooking method, and whether or not you eat the skin.
🍗 Calories in a Chicken Drumstick (Cooked, Skin-On)
A medium-sized drumstick (about 75g, cooked, skin-on) contains approximately:
✅
Calories:
~160
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Protein:
~22g
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Fat: ~8g
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Carbohydrates:
0g
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Iron & B Vitamins:
Good source
Most of the calories come from fat in the skin and protein in the meat.
🥩 Calories by Cooking Method
The way you prepare your chicken has a big impact on its calorie content:
| Cooking Method | Calories (per medium drumstick) |
|---|---|
| Grilled (skinless) | ~130 |
| Baked (skin-on) | ~160 |
| Fried (skin-on) | ~200–250 |
| Breaded & fried | ~250–300 |
🧠 Tip: Removing the skin can reduce total calories by 20–30 per drumstick.
🍗 Health Benefits of Chicken Drumsticks
While chicken drumsticks contain calories, they also offer several nutritional benefits:
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High in Protein:
A great source of lean protein, supporting muscle health.
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Rich in Iron:
Drumsticks are a good source of iron, which is essential for
oxygen transport in the body.
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No Carbs:
If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, chicken
drumsticks are an excellent choice.
✅
Essential B-Vitamins:
Chicken is rich in B-vitamins like niacin, which help with
energy production.
🍗 How to Reduce Calories in Chicken Drumsticks
Want to enjoy chicken drumsticks while reducing calories? Here are some helpful tips:
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Grill or bake instead of frying: Grilling or baking drumsticks can lower their calorie
count, especially when you avoid added fats.
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Remove the skin: As mentioned, removing the skin cuts down on calories and
fat.
✅
Use healthier seasonings: Opt for herbs, spices, and marinades that add flavor
without excess sugar or calories.
📝 Final Thoughts
A chicken drumstick offers around 160 calories when roasted with the skin on, and less if grilled or skinless. It’s a tasty, protein-packed option that fits into most meal plans—especially when cooked with healthy methods. Whether you're meal prepping or planning dinner, drumsticks are a delicious, budget-friendly choice.
References
1. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2024). FoodData Central: Chicken, drumstick, meat and skin, cooked, roasted.
2. CalorieKing. (2024). Chicken Drumstick, Roasted with Skin.
3. Healthline. (2023). Is Chicken Healthy? Nutrition, Benefits, and Tips.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Healthy cooking.