Beyond Meat Chicken Tenders: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits
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Perplexity Plant-based breaded strips with 11g faba bean protein, zero cholesterol, and 50% less saturated fat than traditional chicken tenders.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 2-Piece Serving (80g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Iron | 1.3mg |
| Potassium | 290mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
Macronutrient Breakdown
NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
Beyond Meat chicken tenders deliver 11g plant protein from faba beans with zero cholesterol, but watch the sodium at 450mg per serving (20% DV). Bake instead of frying and pair with fiber-rich vegetables to make a balanced meal.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Plant-Based Tenders Are Always Healthier Than Real Chicken
TRUTH: While Beyond Meat tenders have zero cholesterol and less saturated fat than traditional tenders, they contain more sodium (450mg vs ~300mg) and are ultra-processed. Whole foods remain ideal, but these are a reasonable swap for conventional fried chicken.
MYTH #2: Beyond Meat Chicken Tenders Are High in Protein
TRUTH: At 11g per serving, the protein is decent but not exceptional. Traditional chicken breast tenders provide ~13g per similar serving. The plant protein from faba beans and wheat gluten is well-absorbed but has a different amino acid profile than animal protein.
MYTH #3: Plant-Based Tenders Are Low in Fat
TRUTH: Each 2-piece serving has 12g fat (15% DV). The fat comes primarily from canola and coconut oils. The good news: only 2g is saturated fat, compared to 3-4g in traditional breaded chicken tenders.
MYTH #4: Beyond Meat Products Are Whole-Food Plant-Based
TRUTH: Beyond Meat chicken tenders are classified as ultra-processed food (NOVA Group 4). They contain modified starches, methylcellulose, and multiple additives. Better than fried chicken, but whole beans, lentils, and tofu offer simpler protein sources.
MYTH #5: You Can Eat Unlimited Plant-Based Tenders on a Diet
TRUTH: At 210 calories and 450mg sodium per 2 pieces, portions matter. A full bag (8 oz / ~227g) contains approximately 590 calories and 1,260mg sodium. Stick to 2-3 pieces per serving for weight management.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss |  | 210 calories per 2-piece serving is moderate. Decent protein (11g) but watch portions due to 12g fat. Bake, don't fry. |
| Muscle Gain | | 11g plant protein per serving is moderate. Combine with rice and beans for a complete amino acid profile. Not as efficient as whole chicken breast. |
| Diabetes Management | | 15g carbs from breading affects blood sugar. Ultra-processed foods may increase diabetes risk. Limit to 2 pieces, pair with greens. |
| PCOS Management | | Moderate glycemic load from breading. High sodium may worsen bloating. Choose baked preparation and limit portions. |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | | Provides iron (1.3mg) and protein, but high sodium and ultra-processing are concerns during pregnancy. Occasional use only. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery |  | Easy to prepare, provides protein and iron for recovery. Pair with vitamin C-rich vegetables to boost iron absorption. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to Beyond Meat Chicken Tenders
Understanding how breaded plant-based tenders affect your blood glucose can help you make informed decisions about portions and pairings.
Typical Glucose Response Curve
*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*
How to Flatten the Spike
Pairing carb-containing foods with protein or fiber slows glucose absorption and reduces peak blood sugar:
- 🥗 Side salad with olive oil - Fiber and healthy fats slow absorption
- 🥦 Steamed broccoli or green beans - Low-carb vegetables add fiber
- 🥑 Avocado dip - Healthy monounsaturated fats
- 🫘 Side of black beans - Extra fiber and complete protein when combined with the wheat gluten
This combination reduces the glucose spike and extends energy release, keeping you fuller for longer.
Cultural Significance
Beyond Meat chicken tenders represent a key milestone in the plant-based food revolution that accelerated in the 2010s.
In the United States:
- Part of the "flexitarian" movement, with plant-based meat sales reaching $1.4 billion annually
- Beyond Meat went public in 2019, becoming one of the most successful food IPOs in history
- Plant-based chicken is the fastest-growing segment of alternative meats
- Found in major retailers including Walmart, Target, Whole Foods, and Kroger
Global Impact:
- Plant-based proteins use 99% less water and 93% less land than conventional animal agriculture
- The SWAP-MEAT clinical trial showed plant-based meat lowered TMAO (a cardiovascular risk marker)
- Faba bean cultivation fixes nitrogen in soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers
- Available in 80+ countries across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific
Compare & Substitute
Beyond Meat Chicken Tenders vs Similar Products (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Beyond Meat Tenders | Chicken Breast Tenders (Breaded) | Tofu (Firm) | Gardein Chick'n Tenders |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 263 kcal | 245 kcal | 144 kcal | 200 kcal |
| Carbs | 19g | 14g | 3g | 15g |
| Fiber | 3.8g | 0.5g | 2g | 3g |
| Protein | 14g | 16g | 17g | 14g |
| Fat | 15g | 13g | 8.7g | 8g |
| Sodium | 563mg | 490mg | 14mg | 480mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 55mg | 0mg | 0mg |
| Iron | 1.6mg | 1.1mg | 2.7mg | 1.8mg |
| Best For | Quick plant-based protein | Higher protein, familiar taste | Low-cal, minimal processing | Lower fat alternative |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Beyond Meat chicken tenders healthy?
Beyond Meat chicken tenders provide 11g plant protein with zero cholesterol and 50% less saturated fat than traditional breaded chicken. However, they contain 450mg sodium per serving and are ultra-processed with ingredients like methylcellulose and modified corn starch.
Best practices: Limit to 2-3 pieces per serving, bake instead of frying, pair with whole vegetables and whole grains. Not a daily replacement for whole food protein sources.
How many calories are in Beyond Meat chicken tenders?
A 2-piece serving (80g) contains 210 calories. Per 100g, that's approximately 263 calories. A full 8-oz bag contains about 590 calories total.
Calorie comparison: Similar to traditional breaded chicken tenders (245 kcal/100g) but with zero cholesterol and more fiber.
Can diabetics eat Beyond Meat chicken tenders?
Diabetics should eat Beyond Meat chicken tenders in moderation due to the 15g carbohydrates from the wheat flour breading.
Tips for diabetics:
- Limit to 2 pieces per meal (15g carbs)
- Always pair with non-starchy vegetables
- Best timing: lunch or dinner, not as a standalone snack
- Monitor blood sugar 2 hours after eating
The breading creates a moderate glycemic response. Always consult your healthcare provider.
What is the protein source in Beyond Meat chicken tenders?
The primary protein comes from faba bean protein and vital wheat gluten, delivering 11g per 2-piece serving. Faba beans are a nutrient-dense legume naturally rich in protein, fiber, and iron.
For muscle building or high-protein diets, supplement with additional protein sources like beans, lentils, or a protein shake.
Are Beyond Meat chicken tenders gluten-free?
No. Beyond Meat chicken tenders contain wheat flour in the breading and vital wheat gluten as a protein source. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity must avoid this product.
Gluten-free plant-based alternatives include tofu nuggets, tempeh strips, or chickpea-based tenders.
How should I cook Beyond Meat chicken tenders?
Recommended methods (from healthiest to least):
- Air fryer: 400F for 8-10 minutes - Crispiest result with minimal added fat
- Oven baked: 425F for 18-20 minutes - Even cooking, no added oil needed
- Pan fried: Medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side - Quick but adds fat
- Deep fried: Not recommended - Significantly increases calories and fat
Best approach: Air fry or oven bake for the healthiest preparation. Serve with a side salad and dipping sauce.
How do Beyond Meat chicken tenders compare to real chicken?
Key differences:
- Cholesterol: 0mg vs 55mg per 100g in traditional chicken
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g vs 3-4g per 100g
- Sodium: 563mg vs 490mg per 100g (Beyond Meat is higher)
- Protein: 14g vs 16g per 100g (slightly less)
- Fiber: 3.8g vs 0.5g per 100g (significantly more)
- Processing: Ultra-processed vs minimally processed
Choose based on your health priorities: heart health favors plant-based, protein efficiency favors real chicken.
Track your meals with NutriScan app to see how Beyond Meat chicken tenders fit your personal nutrition goals.
