Chicken is an excellent source of protein, a macronutrient that helps build muscle and burn fat. It also contains several essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, phosphorous, vitamin B6, and zinc. It is important to choose the right cut of chicken for your needs and cooking style.
A chicken leg quarter consists of the thigh and drumstick, and is named for its size relative to a whole chicken. It’s a popular cut that is easy to find in supermarkets and grocery stores, either sold separately as chicken legs or in a family-sized package. Its dark meat is well suited to roasting and produces moist and flavorful chicken.
One chicken leg quarter contains approximately 136 calories. This includes 6.3 grams of fat and zero grams of carbohydrates. Calorie values may vary slightly by brand.
The best way to reduce fat and calories from a chicken leg quarter is to cook it plainly, with no added oils or sauces. This will keep the overall calorie count low and make it easier to stick to your healthy eating goals.
If you’re looking to add a little extra flavor to your chicken, try adding some spices. Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper all work well with chicken. For a spicy twist, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Regardless of how you prepare it, chicken leg quarters are a tasty and nutritious option for a balanced diet. Just be sure to cook it until its internal temperature reaches 175F.