Shrimp vs Chicken Breast: which is healthier?

Per 100g, Shrimp has 99 calories, 24g protein, 0g fiber, and 0.3g fat, while Chicken Breast has 165 calories, 31g protein, 0g fiber, and 3.6g fat. Shrimp is the lighter choice, while Chicken Breast delivers more protein, so the better pick depends on whether you are cutting calories or chasing protein targets.

Which has more calories, Shrimp or Chicken Breast?

Per 100g, Shrimp has 99 calories and Chicken Breast has 165 calories, a difference of 66 calories. In practical terms, 3 oz cooked (84 calories) of shrimp compares with 3 oz cooked, boneless (140 calories) of chicken breast.

Which has more protein, Shrimp or Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast leads on protein with 31g per 100g; the gap is 7.0g per 100g (Shrimp 24g vs Chicken Breast 31g). If you are tracking protein targets, that difference compounds quickly across a full day of meals.

Which is better for a low-carb diet, Shrimp or Chicken Breast?

Chicken Breast has 0g of carbs per 100g compared to 0.2g in Shrimp, making Chicken Breast the easier fit for low-carb or keto plans. Fiber is 0g vs 0g per 100g, which also affects net carbs.

Can I substitute Shrimp for Chicken Breast?

Often, yes. Swapping chicken breast for shrimp shifts your meal by about 66 calories and 7.0g of protein per 100g, so adjust portions if you are logging macros. Texture and cooking behavior differ more than nutrition in many recipes, so test the swap in small batches first.

Shrimp

Chicken Breast

All Comparisons

Shrimp vs Chicken Breast

It's a Tie!

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Compare Shrimp and Chicken Breast calories, protein, and nutrition. See which fits your diet goals.

Verdict (USDA data)

Per 100g (USDA data), Shrimp has 99 calories vs Chicken Breast's 165. Chicken Breast has more protein (31g vs 24g). Pick Shrimp for fewer calories, Chicken Breast for more protein.

Sources: Shrimp (FDC 175180) · Chicken Breast (FDC 171477)