More Protein Than Chicken? 4 Better Options...

More Protein Than Chicken? Here’s 4 Better Options...

If you're like most health-conscious people, you probably think chicken breast is the ultimate protein powerhouse. And you're not wrong—a 3-ounce serving delivers an impressive 23.8 grams of protein! But here's something that might surprise you: there are several other delicious foods that actually contain even MORE protein.

Let me share these protein superstars with you, because variety isn't just the spice of life—it's the key to a healthier, more balanced diet!

1) Beef: The Protein Champion

When you choose a lean 3-ounce portion of cooked beef, you're getting 25.8 grams of protein—that's 2 grams more than chicken! But beef isn't just about protein. It's also loaded with essential nutrients your body craves: potassium, folate, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Whether you grill it, roast it, or boil it, beef can be a fantastic addition to your high-protein lifestyle.

2) Turkey Breast: Chicken's Leaner Cousin

At 25.6 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, turkey breast edges out chicken while remaining incredibly lean. The best part? You can prepare it exactly like chicken, making it an easy swap in your favorite recipes. Turkey also brings phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and folate to your plate—all nutrients that help keep your body running smoothly.

3) Tuna: The Ocean's Protein Gift

A 3-ounce serving of cooked yellowfin tuna delivers 24.8 grams of protein, and it's remarkably low in fat and calories. Even canned tuna is a winner—3 ounces packed in water gives you 20.1 grams of protein, perfect for quick meals and snacks.

One important note: tuna can contain mercury, so choose wisely. The FDA recommends avoiding bigeye tuna, especially if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Stick with canned light tuna (which has less mercury), and enjoy yellowfin or albacore less frequently.

4) Parmesan Cheese: The Ounce-for-Ounce Winner

Here's where it gets really interesting! While a whole serving of chicken has more total protein than a serving of cheese, ounce-for-ounce, Parmesan is the clear champion. One ounce contains 10.1 grams of protein compared to chicken's 7.9 grams per ounce. Plus, it's packed with calcium (335 milligrams per ounce) and is easily digested—even people with lactose intolerance can usually enjoy it because most of the lactose is removed during manufacturing.

Getting Your Daily Protein

The Daily Value for protein is about 50 grams. To hit this target, try these simple strategies: add various high-protein ingredients to every meal, swap sugary drinks for protein-rich options like milk or protein shakes, and choose protein-packed snacks like almonds, Greek yogurt, or canned sardines.

Remember, your body thrives on variety! By mixing up your protein sources, you're not just keeping meals interesting—you're giving your body a wider range of nutrients to support optimal health.

Happy Cooking!,