What’s The Big Deal About Protein In Chicken Tenders?
You probably already know that protein is one of the most important components of a balanced diet, but are you aware that chicken is one of the best sources there is of this vital nutrient? At Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders, people love the delicious, high-quality Tenders we serve, but it’s also worth mentioning why the protein in our real Chicken Tenders is one of the best ways to get this crucial element of a satisfying diet.
Why Is There So Much Protein In Chicken Tenders?
Any cut of chicken will provide a good portion of protein. Chicken meat is known for its protein density. So, what’s so special about tenders?
Real chicken tenders are made only from the tenderloin, a small, delicate cut of meat located under the chicken breast. While the breast typically has the most protein of any cut of chicken, the tenderloin actually contains nearly as much, just in a smaller, more nutrient-dense package. This is because the protein-to-fat ratio in the chicken tenderloin is higher than in the chicken breast. In every 4-ounce portion of tenderloin, there are 25 grams of protein — 45% of the recommended Daily Value for an adult.
Because of their protein density and moist and tender texture, tenderloins are often considered the best 3% of the chicken. That’s why at Huey Magoo’s, we call our Tenders “The Filet Mignon of Chicken®.”
Every one of our meals is packed with protein:
- 3 Piece Tender Meals starting at 41g of protein
- 5 Piece Tender Meals starting at 62g of protein
- 7 Piece Tender Meals starting at 82g of protein
- Sandwiches starting at 34g of protein
- Wraps starting at 40g of protein
- Salads starting at 43g of protein
Protein Supports Muscle Growth And Repair
An essential macronutrient, protein serves as one of the basic building blocks of the human body and is of particular importance for the maintenance, growth and repair of muscle fibers. Dietary protein is made up of long chains of amino acids, and different foods contain different combinations of these important compounds.
For muscle growth to effectively take place, you must include all nine “essential” amino acids in your diet, including leucine, lysine, tryptophan and others. Unfortunately, few foods actually contain all the essential amino acids required by the body, and many of those that do, including beef and pork, also contain high amounts of fat, making them high-calorie foods that must be consumed sparingly.
Chicken, on the other hand, is packed with protein but with a lower fat content. That’s what makes chicken tenders one of the best sources of complete protein — it can be eaten in larger quantities as part of a high-protein diet. This is critical not only for athletes looking to build strength, bulk and endurance, but also for anyone who wishes to maintain their fitness level as they age.
Protein Provides Lasting Energy
Your body requires calories to provide energy, but not all calorie sources are created equal. While carbohydrates are the primary way the body generates the energy required to function daily, many of the most common sources of those carbohydrates are burned quickly, leading to a spike in blood glucose levels, followed by a quick crash. This causes a quick burst of energy followed by a prolonged period of lethargy and fatigue that can make it difficult to perform basic tasks, much less more challenging ones.
For this reason, anyone who wishes to maintain a high level of activity throughout the day should include a source of calories from protein, along with slower-burning sources of carbohydrates, as part of a well-balanced, low-glycemic index diet. The protein in Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders, especially when eaten alongside a variety of Sides, can provide the body with sustained, reliable energy and help to support an active and busy lifestyle.
Protein Keeps You Feeling Fuller Longer
As mentioned above, meals that are high in protein do not cause the same blood sugar spikes as those that are more carbohydrate-heavy. This not only contributes to the previously discussed benefits for sustained energy, but it also helps maintain a longer-lasting feeling of being full.
Protein is digested by the body more slowly, allowing you to feel fuller for longer, with less temptation for snacking. Protein also has a direct effect on the gut-brain hormones the body uses to regulate metabolism and appetite. For example, consuming protein signals the body to release the hormone peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), which tells the brain that you are full and thereby reduces your overall food intake.
Protein consumption has the opposite effect on the infamous “hunger hormone” ghrelin, the chemical messenger that tells your body to keep eating and to store fat. Ghrelin is suppressed by protein consumption, which not only improves your overall sense of fullness, but also promotes the growth of lean muscle mass.
Protein Is Essential For Brain Health
Athletes depend on protein-rich foods to support strong, healthy muscles and to perform at high levels. However, protein is equally important, if not more so, for supplying the raw materials necessary for maximum brain health. It is essential for building healthy brain tissues and crucial for producing the neurotransmitters vital for brain function. Neurotransmitters regulate everything from sleep cycles to moods to pain sensitivity. Of course, they also have an impact on appetite and metabolism.
One example of an amino acid that is essential for brain health is L-tryptophan, which serves as a precursor to the mood-boosting hormone serotonin. Tryptophan is found in high quantities in chicken and other poultry, as well as in eggs and certain plant sources, such as quinoa. Without an adequate source of this and other amino acids in the diet, people can become vulnerable to fatigue, mood swings, brain fog and difficulty concentrating.
Protein-packed chicken tenders are a delicious way to support brain health and help keep you going strong.
Protein Makes Chicken Tenders A Satisfying Meal Option
There are plenty of reasons to include high-protein foods like chicken tenders in a balanced diet, so why not treat yourself to the best chicken tenders? Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders are made with premium cuts of chicken, thoughtfully prepared and cooked to perfection. Our menu offers a wide variety of options so you can customize your order. Order for the whole family or just for yourself. Enjoy your Tenders or Tender Bites on a Sandwich, Wrap or Salad. Add your choice of sides and dips to round out a protein-rich meal.
For example, an order of a 3 Piece Tender Meal with Grilled Chicken Tenders, Crinkle-Cut Fries, Texas Toast and Magoo’s Dip contains 47 grams of protein. That’s enough to satisfy the recommended daily intake for many adults, and it serves as a sizable percentage of it for athletes and other individuals requiring a higher-protein diet.
Come visit a Huey Magoo’s near you, and get some much-needed protein in the best Chicken Tenders around!
