Bushra Griffith
Chicken and cheese quesadillas are a delicious, indulgent treat, but how many calories do they contain? Well, it varies depending on where you get your quesadilla from and the ingredients used. For example, a Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla with no toppings and one packet of sour cream contains 490 calories. However, a large chicken and cheese quesadilla from Chipotle contains 610 calories.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 490-610 |
| Carbs | 30% |
| Fat | 24-44% |
| Protein | 27-46g |
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What You'll Learn
A Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla is 490 calories
The calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla can range from 300 to 529 calories or more, depending on various factors. The average chicken quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant is estimated to be around 529 calories for a serving size of 180 grams. This option typically includes shredded chicken, flour tortillas, shredded cheese, onions, salsa, and spices.
Taco Bell, another popular restaurant, offers chicken quesadillas starting at 500 calories. They also provide a Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla with only 200 calories, showcasing how portion size significantly impacts calorie count.
To reduce the calorie content of chicken and cheese quesadillas, one can make several adjustments. Using low-fat cheese, lean meat with trimmed fat, and adding vegetables in place of some of the chicken and cheese can help lower the calorie count. Additionally, cooking with a minimal amount of butter can also make a difference.
Checking the nutrition label or consulting restaurant staff can provide accurate calorie information for store-bought or restaurant-specific chicken and cheese quesadillas.
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A Chipotle large chicken and cheese quesadilla is 610 calories
The high calorie count of the Chipotle quesadilla can be attributed to the combination of ingredients used. The tortilla alone contributes around 300 calories, while a regular serving of cheese is around 110 calories. However, it's important to note that a quesadilla likely uses more cheese than a regular serving, which can significantly increase the calorie count.
Chicken is also a significant contributor to the calorie count. A 4-ounce serving of chicken can add around 170 calories to the quesadilla. When you add in other ingredients such as sour cream or guacamole, the calorie count can increase even further.
It's worth noting that the calorie count for a quesadilla can vary depending on the restaurant or recipe. For example, a Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla with one packet of sour cream is 490 calories. This variation in calorie count is something to be aware of when making food choices, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.
Overall, a Chipotle large chicken and cheese quesadilla is a tasty but calorie-dense option, with a total calorie count of 610. If you're watching your calorie intake, it may be helpful to consider the breakdown of calories in the quesadilla and make adjustments to portion sizes or ingredients to fit your nutritional needs.
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The Wawa quesadilla's macronutrient breakdown is 30% carbs, 44% fat, and 27% protein
A chicken and cheese quesadilla from Wawa, with no toppings and one packet of sour cream, contains 490 calories. The macronutrient composition of this quesadilla is 30% carbohydrates, 44% fat, and 27% protein. This means that out of the 490 calories, 147 calories come from carbohydrates, 215.6 calories come from fat, and 132.3 calories come from protein.
Comparatively, a chicken and cheese quesadilla from NutriSystem, with a calorie count of 240, has a significantly different macronutrient breakdown. This quesadilla is composed of 54% carbohydrates, 19% fat, and 27% protein. The higher proportion of carbohydrates in this quesadilla means that 129.6 calories come from carbs, 45.6 calories from fat, and 64.8 calories from protein.
The Wawa quesadilla, with its higher calorie count, offers a more balanced distribution of macronutrients. The relatively higher fat content provides a more concentrated source of energy, with fat containing 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram for carbohydrates and protein. This could be beneficial for those seeking a more satiating meal that provides a sustained release of energy.
On the other hand, the NutriSystem quesadilla, with its lower calorie count and higher carbohydrate proportion, may be preferable for those watching their fat intake or aiming for a lighter meal. A higher ratio of carbohydrates can provide a quick energy boost and is especially beneficial for those leading active lifestyles or engaging in athletic pursuits.
Ultimately, the choice between these two quesadilla options depends on individual dietary preferences and goals. The Wawa quesadilla, with its higher fat and protein content, offers a more substantial and calorific option, while the NutriSystem quesadilla, with its emphasis on carbohydrates, provides a lower-calorie, quicker energy source.
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The Chipotle quesadilla contains 51g of total carbs
A Chipotle quesadilla with chicken and cheese contains a substantial number of calories and carbohydrates. The Chipotle quesadilla contains 51g of total carbs, which is quite a high amount, especially for those on low-carb diets. This is further emphasised when we consider that the total calories in this quesadilla are 610.
Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients, along with proteins and fats. They are essential for the body's energy production and are typically broken down into glucose, which is used by our cells for fuel. Each gram of carbohydrate provides the body with approximately 4 calories of energy.
The number of carbs in the Chipotle quesadilla is notable, as it contributes a significant portion of the total calories in the dish. With 51g of carbs providing around 204 calories (4 calories per gram of carbs), this accounts for about one-third of the total calorie count.
It is important to note that not all carbohydrates are equal. The type and source of carbohydrates can impact their nutritional value and effect on the body. In the context of the Chipotle quesadilla, the carbs likely come from the tortilla, which is typically made from flour or corn.
When considering the nutritional value of any food item, it is essential to look at the bigger picture. While the number of carbs and calories in the Chipotle quesadilla might be higher than similar dishes, it is also important to consider the other nutrients it provides, such as proteins and fats, as well as any vitamins and minerals.
In conclusion, while the Chipotle quesadilla contains a notable amount of carbohydrates, contributing to its overall calorie count, it is important to evaluate it as part of a larger nutritional context. The dish may still fit within a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented with other nutritious food choices.
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The Chipotle quesadilla contains 24g of fat
A Chipotle quesadilla contains 24 grams of fat, which is a significant amount. To put this into context, the recommended daily fat intake for an adult is between 44 and 77 grams, depending on age, gender, and activity level. Therefore, a single Chipotle quesadilla contains over 30% of the recommended daily fat intake for some individuals.
It is important to note that not all fats are equal. The type of fat found in a Chipotle quesadilla is likely a combination of saturated and unsaturated fats. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature and are known to increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood, contributing to a higher risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fats, on the other hand, are typically liquid at room temperature and are considered healthier as they can help lower LDL cholesterol levels when consumed in moderation.
The high fat content of the Chipotle quesadilla is likely due to the cheese and chicken used in its preparation. Cheese is a dairy product that is naturally high in fat, especially saturated fat. Chicken, while a lean protein source, can also contribute to the overall fat content, depending on the cut and cooking method.
When consuming high-fat foods like the Chipotle quesadilla, it is important to consider the overall balance of your diet and ensure that you are not exceeding the recommended daily fat intake consistently. Excessive consumption of high-fat foods can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the Chipotle quesadilla also contains a significant amount of carbohydrates and protein. With 51 grams of total carbs and 46 grams of protein, it offers a fairly balanced macronutrient profile, which may be beneficial for those looking to fuel their bodies with a combination of nutrients. However, it is always important to consider individual dietary needs and preferences when making food choices.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the size of the quesadilla and where it's purchased. A large chicken and cheese quesadilla from Chipotle contains 610 calories, while a Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla contains 490 calories.
The Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla contains 30% carbs, 44% fat, and 27% protein. The Chipotle large chicken and cheese quesadilla contains 51g carbs, 24g fat, and 46g protein.
You could try a chicken quesadilla without cheese to reduce the calorie count.
