Chicken drumsticks are a familiar source of protein, but they are best understood when compared to other foods people commonly eat. Looking at eggs, beef, and fish provides perspective on bite size, portion size, and how quickly you can reach your protein goals.

Chicken Drumsticks

A medium cooked drumstick without skin has about 12 grams of protein. One bite averages 2 to 3 grams. To reach 20 grams of protein, you need about two drumsticks, or roughly 8 bites. For 30 grams, three drumsticks are enough.

Eggs

A large egg provides about 6 grams of protein. A single bite of an egg is smaller than a bite of meat, offering roughly 1 to 2 grams of protein. To reach 20 grams, you would need about 3 to 4 eggs. To reach 30 grams, you would need 5 eggs.

Beef

A 3-ounce (85 gram) serving of cooked beef contains about 22 grams of protein. One bite of beef, depending on cut and size, gives about 3 to 5 grams of protein. That means you could hit 20 grams of protein in just one small steak serving, often with fewer bites than chicken.

Fish

A 3-ounce (85 gram) portion of salmon has about 19 grams of protein, while white fish like cod can be closer to 20 to 22 grams. Each bite of fish is softer and lighter, giving 2 to 4 grams of protein. One standard fillet is usually enough to meet a 20-gram goal, and a slightly larger fillet or double portion can reach 30 grams.

Putting It in Context

• Two chicken drumsticks equal the protein in about 3 eggs.
• A small steak provides the same protein as nearly 3 drumsticks.
• One fillet of fish often matches 2 drumsticks in protein content.

This shows that while chicken drumsticks are a good and convenient option, portion size matters. Eggs are smaller but versatile, beef packs a dense protein punch in fewer bites, and fish provides a similar protein load with lighter texture.