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Grilled Chicken Shoulder
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Chicken Shoulder

Gallus gallus domesticus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled chicken shoulder is a flavorful cut of meat that is tender and juicy, making it a popular choice for grilling. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet.

Also known as:
Chicken Thigh (USA)Pollo a la parrilla (Latin America)
Scientific NameGallus gallus domesticus
Region of OriginDomesticated globally, originally from Southeast Asia.

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories165 kcal
Water
65%
Fiber0g
Total34.6g
Protein
31g(90%)
Fats
3.6g(10%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.6 mg (35%)
Niacin13 mg (65%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Selenium24 mcg (43%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, grilled chicken shoulder supports muscle growth and repair, making it ideal for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in B vitamins, particularly B6 and niacin, which are essential for energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin.
Contains selenium, an important mineral that acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage.
Low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Overconsumption of grilled chicken can lead to excessive protein intake, which may strain the kidneys in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
!Improper cooking can lead to foodborne illnesses; ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled or roasted, marinated to enhance flavor. Ensure thorough cooking to avoid foodborne pathogens.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose chicken with a pinkish hue and no off odors. Fresh chicken should feel firm and moist.

How to Store

Store raw chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for 3-4 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating chicken skin is unhealthy.
RealityWhile chicken skin is higher in fat, it can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll chicken is the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent cuts of chicken have varying nutritional profiles; dark meat is higher in fat than white meat.
MythGrilling chicken makes it dry.
RealityProper marination and cooking techniques can keep grilled chicken moist and flavorful.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Shoulder Salad

A vibrant salad featuring grilled chicken shoulder, fresh vegetables, and a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, sliced
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken shoulder and drizzle with dressing before serving.

Spicy Grilled Chicken Shoulder Tacos

These flavorful tacos are filled with grilled chicken shoulder, fresh toppings, and a spicy avocado crema for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, shredded
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, and salt; blend until smooth.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing shredded chicken on tortillas, topping with red cabbage, cilantro, and a drizzle of avocado crema.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder with Quinoa and Spinach

A nutritious bowl featuring grilled chicken shoulder served over a bed of quinoa and sautéed spinach, packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, sliced
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant; add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Serve sliced grilled chicken over quinoa and spinach, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Shoulder Skewers

These zesty skewers are marinated in cilantro and lime, then grilled to perfection for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. 2. Add cubed chicken to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Thread chicken onto skewers and grill over medium heat until cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring grilled chicken shoulder and a variety of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce for a quick and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat and add ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli; stir-fry until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Add sliced chicken and soy sauce, tossing to combine; sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder with Mango Salsa

A tropical dish featuring grilled chicken shoulder topped with a fresh mango salsa, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, whole
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Grill chicken shoulders until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve chicken topped with mango salsa for a refreshing twist.

Herbed Grilled Chicken Shoulder with Sweet Potato Mash

A hearty dish featuring grilled chicken shoulder seasoned with herbs and served alongside creamy sweet potato mash.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, seasoned with herbs
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup milk or almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender; drain and mash with olive oil, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill seasoned chicken shoulders until cooked through.
  3. 3. Serve chicken alongside sweet potato mash for a comforting meal.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder with Avocado and Tomato Salad

A light and nutritious salad featuring grilled chicken shoulder, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine arugula, diced avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. Top with sliced grilled chicken and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder and Chickpea Bowl

A protein-packed bowl featuring grilled chicken shoulder, chickpeas, and fresh veggies, drizzled with tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, sliced
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve sliced chicken over the chickpea mixture and drizzle with tahini dressing.

Grilled Chicken Shoulder with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A delicious and nutritious dish featuring grilled chicken shoulder served with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 grilled chicken shoulders, whole
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then spread on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Roast Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
  3. 3. Grill chicken shoulders until heated through and serve with roasted Brussels sprouts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to marinate grilled chicken shoulder?

A marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs enhances flavor and tenderness.

How long should I grill chicken shoulder?

Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I freeze grilled chicken shoulder?

Yes, grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it's stored in an airtight container.

What are the health benefits of grilled chicken?

Grilled chicken is low in fat, high in protein, and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Is grilled chicken shoulder healthier than fried chicken?

Yes, grilled chicken is lower in calories and fat compared to fried chicken, making it a healthier option.

How can I tell if grilled chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What sides pair well with grilled chicken shoulder?

Vegetable salads, quinoa, or roasted vegetables complement grilled chicken well.

Can I use chicken shoulder for soups?

Yes, chicken shoulder can be used in soups for added flavor and richness.