Sausage & deli meats

Chicken spread

FDC 173858serving (1 serving) (56 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 32 · +10 vs Sausage & deli meats median

Chicken spread scores 32 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, a Low band, though it still ranks 14th of 60 sausage and deli meats, comfortably above the category median of 22. Protein is its strong point, an excellent 36% DV per 100 grams for a spreadable product.

This is a shelf-stable, canned product meant to be spread on crackers or bread for a quick sandwich rather than served as a main course. A one serving portion is convenient for lunchboxes, but it is high in sodium at 722 milligrams per 100 grams, so it is worth checking the label if you are keeping an eye on that total.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around chicken spread, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 18 g · 29%Carb 4.1 g · 7%Fat 17.6 g · 64%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories158 kcal8%
Total fat18 g23%
Saturated fat3.2 g16%
Cholesterol56 mg19%
Sodium722 mg31%
Carbohydrate4.1 g1%
Dietary fiber0.3 g1%
Sugars0.47 g
Protein18 g36%
Potassium106 mg2%
Calcium16 mg1%
Iron0.87 mg5%
Magnesium12 mg3%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A30 µg3%
Vitamin E-

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 173858

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein36% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the sausage & deli meats median

Nutrient density32 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g18 vs 14 median
Fiber / 100 g0.3 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g722 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Frankfurter, porkDensity 33 vs 32Peppered loaf, pork, beefDensity 34 vs 32Beef, cured, pastramiDensity 34 vs 32

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Chicken spread is a smooth, mayonnaise-like blend of cooked chicken meant to be scooped straight from the can or tub and spread on crackers, bread or celery sticks, playing the same role as a quick chicken salad without the chopping and mixing. It works well as a sandwich filling on its own or dressed up with a bit of mustard, pickle relish or hot sauce stirred in for extra flavor. It also travels well, making it a common choice for packed lunches or a quick snack tray alongside crackers and vegetable sticks.

Unopened, it stores at room temperature or in the fridge depending on the product, but once opened it should be refrigerated and used within a few days like any other prepared meat spread. A serving carries 158 calories per 100 grams with 18 grams of protein, reaching 36% of the Daily Value, making it a convenient protein add-on for a quick lunch, though its sodium content of 722 milligrams per 100 grams means it's best used as a spread in modest amounts rather than a main dish portion. Spreading it thin over a whole grain cracker rather than piling it on helps stretch a small container across more servings.

Frequently asked questions about chicken spread

How many calories are in chicken spread?

Chicken spread has 158 calories per 100 grams, or about 88 calories in a typical 56 gram serving.

Is chicken spread a good source of protein?

Yes, it provides 18 grams of protein per 100 grams, reaching 36% of the Daily Value.

How is chicken spread typically eaten?

It's spread directly onto crackers or bread, or used as a quick sandwich filling in place of chicken salad.

View the USDA source record