Quick Answer
Chicken breast and turkey breast are nearly identical in protein content, but turkey breast is slightly leaner with fewer calories per serving. Chicken breast wins on price — it costs about 30% less per gram of protein at the grocery store. For most meal preppers, chicken breast is the better default; turkey breast is worth rotating in for variety and slightly lower fat.
Nutrition Comparison (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Chicken Breast | Turkey Breast |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 104 kcal |
| Protein | 22.5 g | 24.6 g |
| Total Fat | 2.6 g | 0.7 g |
| Carbs | 0 g | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg | 52 mg |
Cost Comparison
| Metric | Chicken Breast | Turkey Breast |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. grocery price/lb | $3.49 | $5.29 |
| Price per 100g | $0.77 | $1.17 |
| Cost per gram of protein | $0.034 | $0.047 |
Chicken breast delivers protein at roughly 28% lower cost. Turkey breast's premium comes from lower supply and less year-round demand outside of holidays.
When to Choose Chicken Breast
- You are meal prepping on a budget and need the cheapest lean protein
- You want maximum recipe versatility (more marinades, cuisines, and prep methods work well)
- It is consistently available and frequently on sale
When to Choose Turkey Breast
- You are cutting calories aggressively and want the leanest possible option
- You want slightly higher protein density per calorie
- You are rotating proteins to avoid food fatigue
The Bottom Line
Both are excellent lean proteins. Chicken breast is the better value for budget-conscious meal preppers. Turkey breast edges ahead nutritionally if you are optimizing for the absolute lowest fat intake. Most people should default to chicken breast and rotate turkey in weekly.
Plan your meals with both — try HowIEatHealthy freeData last updated: March 2026. Nutrition from USDA FoodData Central. Prices from real grocery store data.