Boneless Skinless Duck Breast, Split plated

Duck vs. Chicken – Which is better for you?

POSTED: 02/15/2023

Four Nutrition Facts You Should Know

Chicken is often a go-to protein for consumers, but some people eat it so often it gets boring. If you want to maintain a healthful diet but indulge your taste buds with a richer eating experience, try duck.

1. Duck breast is leaner than chicken breast.

A 3-ounce portion of boneless, skinless duck breast is leaner and has fewer calories than a similar portion of boneless, skinless chicken breast. In fact, it is almost on par with turkey breast according to the USDA. Duck breast has only 110 calories per serving whereas a skinless chicken breast has closer to 165 calories per serving.

To learn how to properly prepare duck breast for the healthiest eating experience, check out Maple Leaf Farms online cooking instructions.

Duck breast protein comparison chart

2. Duck fat is a healthy fat.

When compared with other animal fats, duck fat is lower in saturated fats and higher in monounsaturated fats. This makes it more similar to olive oil and a great substitute for other oils and fats you may cook with.

In fact, in the culinary world, duck is considered liquid gold because it enhances the flavor of dishes with a rich, subtle flavor when used in place of other animal fats. Another benefit of rendered duck fat is it can help lower your blood cholesterol like olive oil.

Rendered Duck Fat

3. Duck is packed with protein and iron.

Duck meat is rich in iron and protein, making it a perfect meat to incorporate into your diet if you are interested in building muscle and boosting your energy. Foods that are rich in iron and protein can also help you achieve healthier skin and hair.

4. Duck offers a poultry nutritional file with a red meat dining experience.

Duck meat offers consumers who are watching their diets the best of both worlds — it can be lower in fat and cholesterol than beef or pork, but has a rich, hearty flavor and texture like red meat. What’s more, duck is extremely versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of cuisines.

Boneless Duck Breast

If you have a case of the chicken-for-dinner-again blahs and are bored with serving it on the regular, explore duck. It is a delicious and nutritious alternative to your typical poultry options.