Calories In Tex-Mex: Tortilla, Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, Cheese

what are the calories corn tortilla steak chicken shrimp cheese

Corn tortillas, steak, chicken, shrimp, and cheese are all foods that vary in calorie content. Calorie content is important to note for those who are conscious of their weight or health. Chicken, for example, is a popular option for lean protein, as it packs a lot of protein into a single serving without much fat. The number of calories in chicken varies depending on the cut and preparation method, with most popular cuts containing 155-203 calories per 3.5 ounces or 100 grams. Similarly, the calorie content of steak, shrimp, and cheese will differ based on various factors.

Calories in corn tortilla, steak, chicken, shrimp, and cheese

Characteristics Values
Corn Tortilla (6-inch) 150 calories
Steak (3 oz) 165 calories
Chicken (3 oz) 140 calories
Shrimp (3.2 oz) 96 calories
Cheese (1 oz) 115 calories
Shrimp Taco with Corn Tortilla 200 calories

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Chicken breast calories: 165 per 3.5-oz serving, 80% from protein, 20% from fat

Chicken is a versatile and popular meat, with most cuts being low in calories and fat while offering ample protein. Chicken breast, in particular, is a good source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight or build muscle.

A 3.5-oz (100-gram) serving of chicken breast provides approximately 165 calories, with 31 grams of protein and 3.6 grams of fat. This means that about 80% of the calories in chicken breast come from protein, while the remaining 20% come from fat. It's important to note that these values pertain to plain chicken breast without any added ingredients. Cooking methods, such as grilling, roasting, poaching, and baking, can influence the final calorie count, with frying, breading, and adding sauces or oils increasing both the fat and calorie content.

Chicken breast is also a good source of various beneficial micronutrients and vitamins. For instance, it contains selenium, which is essential for thyroid function and DNA synthesis, as well as niacin and vitamin B6, which are part of the family of water-soluble B vitamins that contribute to cellular functioning.

Compared to other cuts of chicken, chicken breast is lower in fat and calories. Chicken thighs, for example, provide 179 calories per 3.5-oz serving, with 55% of the calories coming from protein and 45% from fat. Chicken wings offer even higher calorie counts, with 203 calories per 3.5-oz serving, although a significant portion (64%) still comes from protein.

In summary, chicken breast is a nutritious option, providing a good balance of protein and fat, along with essential vitamins and minerals. Its versatility in cooking methods and wide availability make it a convenient choice for those looking to incorporate a healthy source of protein into their diet.

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Chicken wing calories: 203 per 3.5-oz, 64% protein, 36% fat

Chicken is a popular meat, and most cuts are low in calories and fat while providing ample protein. The number of calories in chicken varies depending on the specific cut and how it is prepared. Chicken wings are no exception, and they can be a nutritious part of a healthy diet.

A serving of chicken wings weighing 3.5 oz. (100 g) provides 203 calories, with 30.5 g of protein and 8.1 g of fat. This means that 64% of the calories come from protein, while 36% come from fat. This makes chicken wings a good source of lean protein.

It is worth noting that these values are for skinless and boneless chicken wings. The skin adds approximately 43 extra calories to a chicken wing, almost doubling the calorie count. Cooking methods can also impact the calorie count, with high-fat cooking methods adding extra calories.

Compared to other cuts of chicken, chicken wings have a similar calorie count to chicken thighs, which provide 179 calories per 3.5 oz. (100 g). Chicken breasts are slightly lower in calories, with 165 calories per 3.5 oz. (100 g), and they have a higher percentage of calories from protein, at 80%.

In summary, chicken wings have a moderate calorie count and provide a good amount of protein. They can be a nutritious choice, especially when prepared without skin or high-fat cooking methods, and they are a popular option for appetizers or snacks.

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Cheese calories vary by type and milk fat content; cream cheese is highly processed

Cheese is a dairy product made by curdling milk, and its calorie content varies depending on the type of cheese and the milk's fat content. For example, a 6-inch flour tortilla steak quesadilla contains around 150 calories, and adding 1 oz of cheddar cheese contributes about 115 additional calories. On the other hand, a shrimp quesadilla or taco is a leaner option, with a serving of grilled shrimp containing approximately 96 calories.

Cheese is a versatile ingredient used in various dishes, and its calorie content can differ significantly depending on the variety. For instance, 1 oz of cheddar cheese has around 115 calories, while softer cheeses like cream cheese or queso fresco may have slightly different nutritional profiles. The processing and fat content play a role in determining the calorie count of cheese.

Cream cheese, a highly processed cheese product, often has a higher fat content and, therefore, a higher calorie count. The processing methods used to create cream cheese involve adding stabilizers and emulsifiers, which can impact the nutritional value. The type of milk used also matters; cream cheese made from whole milk will have a higher fat content and more calories than versions made with skimmed or semi-skimmed milk.

On the other hand, natural, less processed cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack may have a different nutritional profile due to variations in milk sources, processing methods, and aging techniques. The calorie content of cheese can also be influenced by the type of milk used, whether it's cow, goat, or sheep's milk, and the animal's diet and environment can impact the milk's nutritional composition.

Additionally, the fat content of the milk used to make cheese plays a significant role in determining its calorie count. Cheese made from whole milk will have a higher fat content and, consequently, more calories than cheese made from reduced-fat or skimmed milk. The production methods and added ingredients in processed cheeses like cream cheese further contribute to their calorie content.

In summary, the calorie content of cheese varies depending on the specific type of cheese and the milk's fat content. Cream cheese, as a highly processed cheese product, tends to have a higher fat content and, therefore, a higher calorie count. The processing methods, added ingredients, and type of milk used all influence the nutritional profile of cheese.

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Corn tortillas: a healthier alternative to flour tortillas, but still calorific

Corn tortillas are a popular choice for dishes such as tacos and quesadillas, and they can be a healthier alternative to flour tortillas. A corn tortilla is typically lower in calories than its flour counterpart. For example, a 6-inch flour tortilla generally contains around 150 calories, while a corn tortilla of a similar size contains about 113 calories.

However, it's important to remember that the calories in a corn tortilla can quickly add up, especially when paired with fillings that are high in fat and calories, such as steak, cheese, and sour cream. A steak quesadilla, for instance, can range from around 275 calories for a small appetizer to over 1,000 calories for a loaded restaurant version. The steak, cheese, and tortilla make up the bulk of these calories.

Corn tortillas are also commonly used in shrimp tacos, which can be a lower-calorie option. A grilled shrimp taco with a corn tortilla typically contains around 200 calories. Using lean proteins like grilled chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak can significantly reduce the calorie count of a dish. For example, 3 oz of chicken breast has about 140 calories, while the same amount of steak has 165 calories.

While corn tortillas can be a healthier choice, it's important to consider portion sizes and the type of fillings used. The calories in corn tortillas can vary depending on their size and the brand, so checking the nutrition facts is always a good idea. Additionally, opting for grilled or baked fillings and adding plenty of vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and keep the calorie count in check.

In summary, corn tortillas offer a somewhat healthier alternative to flour tortillas, but the overall calorie content of a dish depends on various factors. Choosing lean proteins, watching portion sizes, and including nutritious fillings can help create a well-balanced and flavorful meal without excessive calories.

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Lean protein options: chicken and shrimp are good choices, offering high protein-to-fat ratios

Lean protein options are an excellent way to reduce calories without compromising on flavour or nutrition. Chicken and shrimp are good choices, offering high protein-to-fat ratios and a lower calorie count than other proteins.

Chicken breast, for example, has about 140 calories per 3 oz, compared to 165 calories for the same amount of steak. Chicken is a versatile option that can be grilled, shredded, or sliced to add to tacos, quesadillas, or salads. It is a good source of protein and can be paired with various other ingredients to enhance the flavour.

Shrimp is another excellent choice for lean protein. It is low in calories, with only 96 calories per 3.2 oz of raw shrimp, and it can be cooked in a variety of ways to enhance its flavour. Grilled shrimp tacos, for instance, provide a good balance of macronutrients, with 41% carbs, 40% fat, and 20% protein. Shrimp can also be used in quesadillas, adding a tasty twist to this popular Tex-Mex dish.

In addition to their high protein content, chicken and shrimp offer other nutritional benefits. Chicken is a good source of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, and it is also rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism and overall health. Shrimp, on the other hand, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and support heart health. It is also a good source of selenium, a mineral with powerful antioxidant properties.

By choosing lean proteins like chicken and shrimp, individuals can enjoy tasty, satisfying meals while maintaining a healthy balance of macronutrients and keeping their calorie intake in check. These options provide a nutritious and flavourful foundation for a variety of dishes, making them a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.

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Frequently asked questions

The calories in a corn tortilla depend on its size and the ingredients used. Typically, a 6-inch corn tortilla contains around 70 calories.

Steak calories vary depending on the cut and weight. For example, a 3.5-ounce serving of a popular cut like ribeye can contain around 245 calories.

Chicken is a lean protein with variable calories depending on the cut and preparation. A 3.5-ounce serving of chicken breast provides about 165 calories, while a chicken thigh of the same weight has around 179 calories.

Shrimp is relatively low in calories, with around 84 calories per 3.5-ounce serving. Cheese calories depend on the type; softer cheeses tend to be lower in calories, while harder, aged cheeses have higher counts. Cream cheese, for example, is highly processed and calorific.

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