How many calories are in a chicken drumstick?

A roasted chicken drumstick with skin (72g) has 124 calories, or 76 calories without skin (52g). Removing the skin cuts calories by nearly 40%. A 100g serving of roasted drumstick is 172 calories.

Chicken drumstick vs breast: which is healthier?

Breasts are leaner (165 cal, 31g protein/100g vs 172 cal, 26g protein for drumsticks). But drumsticks have more iron, zinc, and flavor. Both are excellent protein sources—drumsticks are just slightly higher in fat.

Should I eat the skin on chicken drumsticks?

The skin adds about 48 calories per drumstick. It contains some beneficial monounsaturated fats but also saturated fat. For weight loss, remove it. For flavor and if calories allow, it's fine occasionally.

How much protein is in a chicken drumstick?

About 19g per drumstick with skin (72g), or 26g per 100g. That's roughly 37% of the daily recommended intake per drumstick. Excellent protein-to-calorie ratio even with skin.

Are fried chicken drumsticks much worse?

Yes. Frying with breading adds roughly 80-120 calories per drumstick (from oil + flour). A fried drumstick is about 200-240 calories vs 124 roasted. Baking or air-frying is much healthier.

What temperature should chicken drumsticks reach?

Internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) minimum. For better texture, cook to 175-180°F—the collagen in dark meat needs higher temps to break down. Use a meat thermometer.

How many drumsticks per serving?

2 drumsticks (248 cal, 38g protein) is a standard serving. For weight loss, 1-2 with vegetables. The bone makes them seem smaller than they are—weigh the meat for accuracy.

Drumstick vs thigh: which has more calories?

Very similar. Drumsticks are 172 cal/100g, thighs about 209 cal/100g (skin on). Thighs have more fat and slightly more flavor. Drumsticks are the leaner dark meat option.