Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets Healthy? Discover the Truth
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Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets Healthy? Discover the Truth Behind the Label

Writer's picture: Just HealthyJust Healthy

Updated: Jan 6

✓ Medically reviewed by Alex Carter

Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are healthier than traditional options, with 160 calories, 7g of fat, 16g of protein, and 470mg of sodium per serving (84g), made from whole chicken breast and no artificial ingredients, but portion control and baking instead of frying are key to maintaining their healthiness.


Fried chicken nuggets on a vibrant yellow backdrop.


Key Highlights


  • Just Bare chicken nuggets are a healthier choice with 160 calories and 6 grams of fat per serving, compared to Chick-fil-A's 380 calories and 17 grams of fat.

  • These nuggets are free from artificial additives and antibiotics, aligning with high health and ethical standards.

  • Consumers appreciate Just Bare chicken nuggets for their taste, convenience, and high protein content, despite some concerns about sodium levels and price.



Table of Contents



What's Inside Just Chicken Nuggets ?


Calories written on a paper in a plate with fork and knife.

Calories and Macronutrients


One serving (3 ounces) of Just Bare chicken nuggets has 160 calories, which fits well into a balanced diet. Each serving includes 6 grams of fat, 9 grams of carbs, and 16 grams of protein.


This balanced mix makes these nuggets a healthier choice compared to other processed chicken products.


Micronutrients and Additives


Each serving has 540 milligrams of sodium, which is 23% of your daily limit. This is important for those watching their sodium intake. The nuggets have no added sugars, which is great for those limiting sugar.


Plus, there are no artificial preservatives, making it a cleaner product.


Battle of the Brands: How Just Bare Stacks Up


Chick-fil-A nuggets have 380 calories per 12-piece serving, while Just Bare has 160 calories per 3-ounce serving. Chick-fil-A nuggets also have 17 grams of fat compared to Just Bare's 6 grams per serving.


The protein content is similar: Chick-fil-A offers 40 grams per 12-piece serving, and Just Bare provides 16 grams per serving.



What are the Nugget's made of Exactly ?


What Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets?


Just Bare chicken nuggets are made from boneless, skinless chicken breast, making them a healthier option because they have less fat compared to dark meat.


The brand promises no antibiotics, added hormones, or steroids used in raising the chickens. Each serving contains 16 grams of protein, which is great for muscle maintenance and overall health.


Ingredients: What's Inside?


The nuggets are lightly breaded, which helps keep the fat content lower than heavily breaded options.


The breading includes tapioca starch, providing a different texture and potentially lower glycemic index compared to wheat flour. There are no artificial flavors or preservatives, making this product appealing to health-conscious consumers.


Ingredient Quality and Why It Matters


  • Antibiotic-Free Claims: Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, and choosing antibiotic-free products helps mitigate this issue.


  • No Added Hormones or Steroids: Federal law prohibits the use of hormones or steroids in poultry, but the brand emphasizes their compliance with these standards to reassure consumers.



Health Benefits and Concerns: Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets Healthy?


healthy woman doing yoga fitness excercise

Why Choose Just Bare? Health Benefits You Didn't Know


  • High Protein Content: Just Bare chicken nuggets have high protein levels, which help support muscle growth and maintenance.

  • For more tips on protein-rich diets, check out Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Diet, which focuses on high-protein meals for optimal muscle gain.

  • Lower Fat Content: They have less fat compared to other brands, which is great for weight management.

  • No Artificial Additives: The nuggets do not contain artificial additives, reducing the intake of potentially harmful chemicals.


What to Watch Out For: Potential Health Concerns


  • High Sodium Content: Each serving has a high sodium content, which can be a concern for people with hypertension or cardiovascular issues.

  • Processed Food Moderation: Even though these nuggets are healthier, they are still processed food and should be eaten in moderation.

  • Overconsumption Risks: Eating too many nuggets, even healthy ones, can lead to dietary imbalances.


What Do Experts Say? Professional Opinions on Just Bare Nuggets


  • Nutritionist Approval: Experts agree that Just Bare chicken nuggets are a better choice than many other processed chicken products because of their cleaner ingredient list.

  • Balanced Meal Advice: Health experts suggest pairing these nuggets with vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal.

A plate of chicken nuggets and colorful vegetables, a delicious and balanced meal.

For more balanced meal ideas, consider reading about Ayurvedic Yogi Breakfasts, which emphasize nutritious and energy-boosting breakfast options.



Consumer Reviews and Experiences


Glowing Reviews: Positive Feedback from Consumers


  • Taste and Texture: Many consumers love the taste and texture of Just Bare chicken nuggets, often comparing them favorably to Chick-fil-A nuggets. They praise the juicy meat and crispy breading.

  • Convenience and Versatility: Reviews highlight how convenient and versatile these nuggets are. They can be used in various recipes, from salads to wraps, making meal prep easy.

  • High Protein Content: Consumers frequently mention the high protein content as a big plus. It helps them feel fuller longer and supports their dietary goals.


Not So Perfect: Common Complaints from Consumers


  • High Sodium Content: Some consumers find the sodium content too high for their dietary needs, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

  • Breading Texture Complaints: There are occasional complaints about the breading texture, especially if the nuggets are not cooked using the recommended methods like baking or air frying.

  • Price Concerns: Some reviews mention that the price of Just Bare chicken nuggets is higher compared to other frozen chicken products, which can be a downside for budget-conscious shoppers.



Best Ways to Cook Just Bare Chicken Nuggets: Delicious Tips and Tricks


Oven Baking: Achieve the Perfect Crunch


  • Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the nuggets for 23 minutes to get a crispy texture.

  • Convection Setting: Using a convection setting helps achieve even browning.

  • Turn Halfway: Turn the nuggets halfway through baking for even cooking.


Air Fryer Method: Crispy and Healthy


Woman preparing food in an air fryer standing in the kitchen with tablet.

  • Preheat and Cook: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Cook the nuggets for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

  • Crispy Exterior: The air fryer method provides a crispy exterior with less added fat compared to frying.

  • Preferred Method: Many consumers prefer the air fryer method for these nuggets.


Microwave Method: Quick and Convenient



  • Quick Option: Place nuggets on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 2.5 minutes.

  • Texture Note: Microwaving can result in a less crispy texture, so it is not the preferred method for best results.

  • Convenience: Microwaving is useful for a quick, convenient meal option when time is limited.


Recipe Ideas: Get Creative with Your Nuggets


  • Healthy Meals: Use nuggets as a protein source in salads, wraps, or grain bowls for balanced meals.

  • Quick Snacks: Pair with healthy dips like hummus or guacamole for a nutritious snack option.

  • Creative Dishes: Incorporate into recipes like chicken parmesan or stir-fries for a variety of meal ideas.

For a rapid weight loss strategy, consider incorporating elements from the Cucumber Diet for Rapid Weight Loss, which emphasizes low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods.



Availability and Pricing: Where to Find and How Much It Costs


Where to Purchase: Get Your Nuggets Today


You can buy Just Bare chicken nuggets at Costco, where they're often sold in bulk 64-ounce bags for about $13.99. They're also available in major grocery stores and online at sites like Amazon and the Just Bare website.


Availability might vary by region, so it's good to check online stock before heading to the store.


Cost Analysis: Are They Worth It?


At Costco, Just Bare chicken nuggets cost about $0.22 per ounce, which makes them a cost-effective choice compared to other premium chicken nuggets. For comparison, Chick-fil-


A nuggets cost about $1.30 per ounce, making Just Bare a more economical option.

Buying in bulk at Costco not only saves money but also reduces the number of shopping trips, which is great for busy families.



Conclusion


So, are Just Bare chicken nuggets healthy? Compared to many other chicken nuggets, they certainly seem to be a better option. They offer a balanced mix of calories, fat, protein, and carbs, making them a good fit for a healthy diet.


With no artificial preservatives and high protein content, they are appealing for those seeking healthier processed foods.


However, it's essential to watch your sodium intake and remember that moderation is key, even with healthier nuggets. Pairing them with vegetables and whole grains can make for a more balanced meal.


Overall, Just Bare chicken nuggets are a tasty, convenient, and relatively healthy choice that can be part of a balanced diet. Whether you bake them, air fry them, or microwave them, they offer versatility and flavor.


Enjoy them in salads, wraps, or as a quick snack, and savor the benefits of a better nugget option.



Frequently Asked Questions


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets gluten free? 


No, Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are not gluten free as they contain wheat flour in the breading.


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets fried?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are not pre-fried; they are baked during processing. However, you can fry them at home if desired.


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets cooked?


Yes, Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are fully cooked and only need to be reheated.


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets processed?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are minimally processed, using natural flavors and whole muscle chicken breast meat.


Can I fry Just Bare Chicken Nuggets?


Yes, you can fry Just Bare Chicken Nuggets at home. They can also be baked or air-fried.


Who sells Just Bare Chicken Nuggets?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are sold at various retailers, including Costco.


Who makes Just Bare Chicken Nuggets?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are produced by Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation.


How much is one serving of Just Bare Chicken Nuggets?


One serving of Just Bare Chicken Nuggets is typically about 3 ounces.


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets halal?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are not certified halal.


Is Just Bare Chicken real chicken?


Yes, Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are made from real chicken breast meat.


Are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets healthy for weight loss?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets can be part of a healthy diet for weight loss due to their high protein and moderate calorie content, but they should be eaten in moderation due to sodium levels.


How many Just Bare Nuggets is 3 oz?


Approximately 3-4 Just Bare Chicken Nuggets make up a 3-ounce serving.


How much are Just Bare Chicken Nuggets at Costco


Prices may vary, but a bag of Just Bare Chicken Nuggets at Costco generally costs around $14-$18.


Is Just Bare Chicken low carb?


Just Bare Chicken Nuggets are relatively low in carbohydrates, with 9 grams of carbs per serving.



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