Is Broasted Chicken Healthy?
Yes, broasted chicken is a healthy alternative to fried chicken.
It contains up to 70% less fat and fewer calories than fried chicken.
It has more protein, less sugar, and fewer carbohydrates compared to its fried counterpart.
Broasted chicken can be prepared with healthier ingredients such as avocado oil and pink or sea salt.
Choosing leaner cuts of chicken and incorporating it into a balanced diet is important for weight loss.
While fried chicken can be part of a weight loss plan if cooked in a healthier way, broasted chicken provides better nutritional value.
KFC, a popular fast-food chain, does offer broasted chicken options, but it is not a healthy choice for weight loss due to its high calorie, salt, and unhealthy fat content.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. The term “Broasted” is actually a trademarked name for a cooking method that combines pressure frying and deep frying, resulting in crispy and moist chicken.
2. Broasted chicken is often considered healthier than traditional deep-fried chicken because the pressure frying process seals in the natural juices, reducing the amount of oil absorbed by the chicken.
3. A single serving of broasted chicken can provide a significant amount of protein, contributing to muscle growth and repair in the body.
4. Despite its health benefits compared to deep-fried chicken, broasted chicken should still be consumed in moderation as it can be high in calories and fat content. It’s important to balance it with nutritious sides and eat it as part of a well-rounded diet.
5. The invention of broasted chicken is credited to the founder of Broaster Company, L.A.M. Phelan, who first introduced the concept in the 1950s. Today, his innovative cooking method is embraced by many restaurants around the world.
Broasted Chicken Vs. Fried Chicken: A Healthier Alternative
When it comes to indulging in crispy, flavorful chicken, many people automatically think of fried chicken. However, there is a healthier alternative that not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a range of nutritional benefits – broasted chicken. Broasted chicken is deep-fried in a pressure cooker with hot oil, giving it a less greasy exterior and allowing it to absorb less oil compared to traditional fried chicken.
Lower Fat And Calorie Content In Broasted Chicken
One of the key reasons why broasted chicken is considered a healthier alternative to fried chicken is its significantly lower fat and calorie content. In fact, broasted chicken contains up to 70% less fat and fewer calories than its fried counterpart. For instance, a single breast of broasted chicken contains 315 calories, while fried chicken has 330 calories. This slight difference may seem negligible, but when you consider the overall nutritional value, it becomes evident that broasted chicken is a better choice for those watching their weight.
Higher Protein, Lower Sugar, And Carbohydrate Content In Broasted Chicken
Not only does broasted chicken offer lower fat and calorie content, but it also provides higher levels of protein compared to traditional fried chicken. A serving of broasted chicken contains a whopping 43 grams of protein, while fried chicken only has 14 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, boosting metabolism, and maintaining muscle mass.
Furthermore, broasted chicken is also lower in sugar and carbohydrates. With less than one gram of sugar per serving, broasted chicken trumps fried chicken, which contains five grams. In terms of carbohydrates, broasted chicken has a mere five grams per serving, while fried chicken packs a hefty 40 grams. This makes broasted chicken a suitable option for individuals following low-carb or low-sugar diets.
The Ingredients And Preparation Of Broasted Chicken
Broasted chicken can be prepared using a variety of ingredients to enhance its flavor. Common additions include avocado oil, pepper, vinegar, masala, paprika, salt, basil, flour, garlic powder, parsley, corn flour, and eggs. These ingredients not only provide a delightful taste but also add nutritional value to the chicken.
Commercial preparation of broasted chicken requires proprietary cooking equipment. This specialized equipment allows the chicken to be cooked under pressure, ensuring that it is evenly cooked and retains its moisture. The pressure cooking process aids in creating a less greasy exterior while maintaining a succulent and tender interior.
- Avocado oil
- Pepper
- Vinegar
- Masala
- Paprika
- Salt
- Basil
- Flour
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Corn flour
- Eggs
The pressure cooking process aids in creating a less greasy exterior while maintaining a succulent and tender interior.
Tips For Healthier Broasted Chicken Preparation
To make broasted chicken even healthier, there are a few simple tips you can follow:
- Consider using olive or avocado oil for cooking instead of traditional oils. These healthier oils are rich in monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health.
- Opt for pink or sea salt instead of regular table salt. These alternatives contain essential minerals that are beneficial for the body.
Another important tip is to cook broasted chicken without the skin. The skin tends to retain more fat and can significantly increase the calorie content. By removing the skin before cooking, you can further reduce the overall fat content of the chicken.
Lastly, it is crucial to avoid reheating broasted chicken in oil. Reheating chicken in oil may increase its carcinogenic properties, posing a potential health risk.
- Use olive or avocado oil
- Choose pink or sea salt
- Remove the skin before cooking
- Avoid reheating in oil
Note: Following these tips can help make broasted chicken a healthier option.
Broasted Chicken Vs. Fried Chicken: Making Informed Choices
While comparing broasted chicken to fried chicken, it is important to consider various factors before making a choice. For individuals looking to lose weight, incorporating leaner cuts of chicken into their diet is crucial. Moreover, broasted chicken can be a part of a weight loss plan if it is cooked in a healthier manner, such as by baking instead of frying and using lighter breadings or batters.
Furthermore, opting for organic, free-range chicken is an even better option. Organic chicken is raised without antibiotics or added hormones, making it a cleaner and leaner choice. Additionally, it often contains higher levels of beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.
On the contrary, it is worth noting that fast-food chains like KFC primarily offer fried chicken. While they do have a few broasted chicken options, the majority of their menu consists of fried chicken, which is not the ideal choice for weight loss due to its high calorie, salt, and unhealthy fat content.
In conclusion, broasted chicken emerges as a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, considering its lower fat and calorie content, higher protein levels, and reduced sugar and carbohydrate content.
- Opt for leaner cuts of chicken when incorporating it into a weight loss plan.
- Bake broasted chicken instead of frying it, and use lighter breadings or batters.
- Choosing organic, free-range chicken is even better as it is raised without antibiotics or added hormones, and contains higher levels of beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Fast-food chains like KFC primarily offer fried chicken, which is not the best choice for weight loss due to its high calorie, salt, and unhealthy fat content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is broasted healthier than fried?
Broasting has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional frying due to its potential health benefits. With the use of less oil, broasting can result in meals that are healthier compared to fried foods. As the food cooks, it absorbs fewer unwanted fats and oils, making it a potentially healthier option. By reducing the amount of oil used in the cooking process, broasting presents an opportunity to enjoy flavorful dishes while minimizing the intake of unhealthy fats and calories.
Is broasted chicken considered fried?
While broasted chicken is prepared using a pressure fryer, it is important to note that it is not purely considered “fried” in the traditional sense. Broasting involves the use of a pressure cooker, which combines the aspects of frying and pressure cooking. This unique method of cooking allows the chicken to be crispy on the outside, similar to frying, while also ensuring it remains tender and juicy on the inside. Therefore, broasted chicken can be recognized as a distinct culinary technique that goes beyond simple frying.
How many calories are in broasted chicken?
The calorie content of broasted chicken varies depending on the portion size. For instance, a breast contains approximately 329 calories, while a thigh contains about 298 calories. These numbers reflect the expected calorie distribution for broasted chicken, giving you an idea of its nutritional value. However, it’s important to note that additional variables such as seasoning or cooking methods may slightly affect the overall calorie count.
Is broasted chicken high in cholesterol?
Broasted chicken, despite its delicious taste, is not known for being high in cholesterol. In fact, broasting, a unique cooking method that combines the techniques of frying and roasting, does not significantly affect the cholesterol content of chicken. A cup of diced broasted chicken, with the skin not eaten, contains approximately 120 mg of cholesterol, which is within the average range for roast chicken. However, it is important to consider the cooking oil and preparation methods used as they can impact the overall nutritional profile. To maintain a balanced diet, it is advisable to enjoy broasted chicken in moderation as part of a varied meal plan.