When we think of turkey, we mostly just think of Thanksgiving, but this bird might actually be better for you than its poultry pal, chicken. Here, we put an end to the great chicken vs turkey debate.
Basic Nutrient Profile
These birds have very similar nutrient profiles, both being considered white meat and of the same general family of food. However, there are some minor differences that build up to a distinction between the two.
Calories
Both of these meats contain relatively few calories, which make them appealing to those trying to maintain a healthy weight. There's a slight difference between the caloric values of turkey and chicken—turkey being the lower—but the difference is negligible. So we'll give them both a point, for, ya know, encouragement.
Turkey: 1 Chicken: 1
Fat
When choosing low-fat meats, poultry is the way to go. That being said, when it's chicken vs turkey, turkey is actually leaner, at .5 g a 3oz serving vs chicken at 3.5 g. The difference is minute, but hey, we're being petty here. And that's okay.
Turkey: 2 Chicken: 1
Protein
Both are terrific sources of lean-and-not-so-mean protein, but, again, since we're being petty, turkey has more (28g), with chicken having 25g.
Turkey: 3 Chicken: 1
More Points to Squawk About
As one might expect, these two birds boast similar vitamin and mineral profiles—much better than the profiles of your average Tinder boy. Vitamin B6, riboflavin, phosphorus, niacin... is anyone else a little turned on by all the health? Just me?
Arousal aside—which the B-vitamins are know to help with, just sayin'—the two aren't entirely alike. In addition to the benefits it has in common with chicken, turkey contains more selenium and copper, both of which help maintain a healthy immune system.
But when you thought that would end it, chicken hits turkey with its abundance of niacin, which protects against Alzheimers and dementia. And, because we can't overlook these benefits, the final round ends in a tie.
Turkey: 4 Chicken: 2
So... is there a Winner?
If we look at the numbers (which, as an English major, I never thought I'd say), turkey wins by just a little bit. It has slightly more protein and less fat, which is important if you're looking to gain some muscle.
Roasting Turkey, adding avocado, or switching out beef in favor of this bird are wonderful ways to enjoy turkey on those days you aren't also dodging questions about school and dating and, like, adult stuff. Thanksgiving dinners are hard, but eating right doesn't have to be.
BUT! You don't have to drop chicken all together. Roasting also works beautifully here, as well as baking. Also, Fruity Pebbles chicken and waffles are a thing, so like, you def need chicken in your life. It'll be your little side secret. I won't tell, promise.
Wishing you some eggcellent cooking, loves!