Canned chicken can be a quick, convenient way to add protein to meals when you’re short on time. But figuring out equivalents between canned chicken and fresh chicken can be confusing. So how many cans of chicken do you need to equal a pound? Let’s break it down.
Why Canned Chicken Weight Is Confusing
The main source of confusion comes from the difference between the total can weight and the drained weight – the actual weight of chicken once the liquid is drained off.
For example, a standard 5 oz can contains around 3-4 oz of drained chicken. The rest is packing liquid that doesn’t really contribute to the amount of chicken you’ll be eating.
This is why it’s so important to check the drained weight on the label rather than relying on the total can weight. Manufacturers aren’t trying to mislead you, but you need to know exactly how much usable chicken you’re getting.
The Magic Number – 2 Cans Per Pound
The quick answer is that 2 standard 5 oz cans of chicken will equal approximately 1 pound (16 oz) of chicken.
This takes into account minor variations between brands. So you can use 2 cans as a handy rule of thumb when a recipe calls for a pound of cooked chicken.
Some key points:
- This is based on the drained weight, not the total can weight
- Applies to standard 5 oz cans – other sizes would differ
- Works for both white and dark chicken meat
- Accounts for minor differences between brands
So in most cases, you can simply substitute 2 cans for 1 pound of fresh chicken. But let’s look at a few other common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much chicken is in a 5 oz can?
A typical 5 oz can contains 3-4 oz of drained chicken. Always check the label though, as brands can vary slightly.
How much chicken is in a 12 oz can?
A 12.5 oz can will have 9-10 oz of drained chicken. Again, confirm the exact drained weight.
Does the packing liquid affect the weight?
No, packing liquid (broth or water) does not contribute to drained weight. It adds flavor but not extra chicken.
Does brand affect drained weight?
Yes, brands can differ in their packing process so check each label. But differences are usually minor.
Is there a weight difference between white and dark meat?
No, drained weight is typically similar for white and dark meat. The difference is mainly flavor and fat content.
Does salt content affect weight?
No, salt content does not directly affect drained weight. But lower sodium options may be better for dietary needs.
Can I use the packing liquid?
Absolutely! Use it to add extra flavor to soups, stews, rice dishes, etc. Just watch the sodium content.
How accurate are fresh-to-canned conversions?
Weight conversions are typically very accurate. For example, 1 lb fresh chicken ≈ 1 lb drained canned chicken.
What’s the best way to drain?
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to thoroughly drain liquid without shredding chicken. Press gently to remove excess moisture.
Does processing method affect nutrition?
Pressure canning can cause some vitamin loss but canned chicken still has lots of protein, minerals.
How long does canned chicken last?
Properly stored cans can last 2-5 years. Weight won’t change until opened. Consume by “best by” date for optimal freshness.
Handy Equivalents Guide
Here is a handy reference for drained weight equivalents:
- 1 lb chicken = 2 x 5 oz cans
- 3 lb chicken = 6 x 5 oz cans
- 1 lb chicken = 1 x 12.5 oz can
- 2 lb chicken = 2 x 12.5 oz cans
These will help you easily substitute canned chicken in any recipe that calls for fresh chicken by the pound.
Converting Recipes from Fresh to Canned
When adapting recipes, focus on the drained weight rather than total can weight:
- If a recipe lists “1 pound of cooked, chopped chicken” – replace with 2 x 5 oz cans, drained
- For “2 pounds chicken” – use 4 x 5 oz cans or 2 x 12.5 oz cans
- For volume measures like cups, first weigh your drained chicken to determine the conversion
With this simple approach you can effortlessly substitute canned chicken in casseroles, salads, soups, pasta dishes, and more!
Tips for Using Canned Chicken
- Always drain cans thoroughly to remove excess liquid, fat, and salt
- Give the chicken a quick rinse to improve flavor and texture
- Use hand shredded for a less mushy texture in certain dishes
- Try mixing white and dark meat cans for added depth of flavor
- Add a splash of lemon juice, wine, or broth to boost juiciness
- Saute with aromatics to liven up the flavor of plain canned chicken
With a bit of finesse, canned chicken can be just as delicious and versatile as the fresh stuff!
So next time a recipe calls for cooked chicken, you’ll know exactly how many cans to grab from your pantry. Understanding the relationship between canned and fresh chicken weight takes the guesswork out of substitutions. Now you can skip straight to cooking up quick, tasty meals!
How Many Cups per Pound of Chicken
Now what if your recipe is calling for a number of cups of chicken (like in this Chimichurri Chicken Sandwich). How much meat do you need to buy in order to have the right amount?
Whether your recipe calls for chicken that is shredded or diced into bite-size pieces, they have around the same volume and weight.
An average pound of uncooked chicken equals approximately:
Boneless– 3 cups of cooked meat
Ground– 2 and ½ cups of cooked meat
Bone In– 1 and ½ cups of cooked meat
How Much is One Serving of Chicken
A single serving of chicken meat is generally considered to be about approximately:
- 100 grams
- ¼ pound
- 4 ounces
- ¾ cup
While it can be easy to figure out with boneless chicken meat, it can be a bit trickier with bone in meat.
A good rule of thumb is that you need twice the amount (by weight) of bone-in chicken to yield the same amount of meat. So for bone-in chicken meat, one serving is equal to approximately:
- 200 grams
- ½ pound
- 8 ounces
