Are Chicken Thighs Keto?

Poultry
Chicken Thighs sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTYES

Juicy, forgiving, and keto-perfect. Unbreaded chicken thighs provide ~0g net carbs per 100g, with higher fat than breasts to support ketosis and exceptional flavor. Great for batch cooking and everyday meals.

Juicy, forgiving, and keto-perfect. Unbreaded chicken thighs provide ~0g net carbs per 100g, with higher fat than breasts to support ketosis and exceptional flavor. Great for batch cooking and everyday meals.

  • Net carbs (100g)0g
  • Protein (100g)26g
  • Fat (100g)10.4g
  • Keto verdictKeto-friendly

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
0g
Total Carbs
0g
Fiber
0g
Protein
26g
Fat
10.4g
Calories
209

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Zero net carbs: Fits strict keto with no carbohydrate content
  • High protein: ~26g per 100g supports muscle maintenance and satiety
  • Higher fat than breasts: Skin-on fat boosts flavor and ketogenic macros
  • Forgiving to cook: Stays tender/juicy over a wider temperature range
  • Rich flavor: Dark meat offers deeper taste and satisfaction
  • Affordable: Often cheaper than breasts, ideal for meal prep

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Complete protein with all nine essential amino acids
  • Rich in B vitamins (B6, B12, niacin) for energy and nervous system health
  • Contains selenium supporting antioxidant defenses and thyroid function
  • Good source of iron aiding oxygen transport and energy production
  • Provides zinc for immune function and wound healing
  • Supplies choline and carnitine which support fat metabolism

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

CRISPY SKIN PAN-ROASTED

Place skin-side down in a cool skillet; slowly render fat, then finish skin-side up in the oven until golden.

GARLIC BUTTER BRAISED

Brown skin-side down, add garlic, broth, and herbs; braise covered at 350°F (175°C) for 30–40 minutes.

SLOW-COOKER CURRY

Combine thighs with curry paste, coconut milk, and low-carb veggies; cook on low 6–8 hours.

BAKED PARMESAN THIGHS

Coat in crushed pork rinds and parmesan; bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until crisp.

LEMON HERB GRILLED

Marinate in olive oil, lemon, and herbs; grill skin-side down 6–8 minutes, flip and finish.

CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE

Pan-sear thighs; sauté mushrooms, add cream and broth; return thighs and simmer until saucy.

BACK TO ALL PROTEINS & MEATS