LEAN CUISINE CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA TENDER WHITE MEAT CHICKEN, SWEET PEAS, CARROTS & RICE IN A CREAMY TOMATO, INDIAN-STYLE SAUCE, CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA
LEAN CUISINE CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA scores 47/100, a decent rating primarily driven by its classification as a processed food.
This LEAN CUISINE product has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it is a decent option.
It provides 6.69g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
A notable concern is its NOVA class 3 rating, signifying it is a processed food.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this product offers a different nutritional profile due to its meal composition.
Consider this as an occasional meal component rather than a daily staple.
Scores +14 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.7g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
6.69g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
268.03mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.7g)+2
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
LEAN CUISINE CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and certain aspects that reduce its overall nutritional density. The product gains a bonus of 2 points for its protein content, providing 6.69g per 100g, which is a reasonable amount for a prepared meal. However, it incurs a penalty of 5 points due to its NOVA class 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food. Ingredients like cooked enriched long grain rice and various starches contribute to this classification. While the product contains some vegetables like carrots and peas, the overall formulation includes components typical of processed meals. The sodium content is 268.03mg per 100g, which is moderate, and added sugar is low at 0.4g per 100g. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be a single ingredient food, this LEAN CUISINE meal offers a more complex nutritional profile as a complete meal, but also the trade-off of being more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lean cuisine chicken tikka masala tender white meat chicken, sweet peas, carrots & rice in a creamy tomato, indian-style sauce, chicken tikka masala actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This LEAN CUISINE meal offers 6.69g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for satiety. Including adequate protein in meals can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially assisting with weight management. This product can serve as a convenient way to add protein to a meal, especially when time for meal preparation is limited.
Convenient Meal Option
The LEAN CUISINE CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA is a convenient, ready-to-eat meal that requires minimal preparation. For individuals with busy schedules, it provides a quick option to consume a meal without extensive cooking. This convenience can be beneficial in ensuring regular meal consumption, preventing reliance on less nutritious fast-food alternatives when time is short. Its single-serving packaging also helps with portion control.
Contains Some Vegetables
This product includes carrots and peas, contributing some vegetable content to the meal. While not a primary source of diverse vegetables, these additions offer a small amount of vitamins and fiber. Incorporating even small amounts of vegetables into prepared meals can help increase overall vegetable intake, which is important for a balanced diet and provides various micronutrients.
LEAN CUISINE CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA scores 47/100, a decent rating primarily driven by its classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
This LEAN CUISINE meal is designed as a single-serving, convenient option for lunch or dinner. It's typically heated in a microwave and consumed directly from the tray. It can be a practical choice for quick meals when cooking from scratch isn't feasible, offering a complete meal in one package.
To enhance nutrient density, consider pairing this meal with a side salad or steamed non-starchy vegetables.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if consuming regularly, balance with other low-sodium foods throughout the day.
This product can be a suitable option for a quick office lunch or a simple dinner when time is limited.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including milk and soy, which are listed in the ingredient statement. Individuals with allergies to dairy or soy should avoid this product. The presence of 'natural flavors' is noted; while generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit foods with these ingredients. The NOVA class 3 rating indicates it is a processed food, meaning it has undergone significant industrial processing. While not inherently harmful, a diet rich in minimally processed foods is generally recommended for optimal health. The product's fiber content is low at 0.7g per 100g, which might not contribute significantly to daily fiber needs.
LEAN CUISINE Chicken Tikka Masala scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides some protein and vegetables but is classified as a processed food. Its nutritional profile suggests it can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does LEAN CUISINE Chicken Tikka Masala compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as those from Healthy Choice, LEAN CUISINE Chicken Tikka Masala has a similar convenience factor. Nutritional comparisons would depend on the specific product, but this SKU offers a moderate calorie count and some protein, making it a comparable option within the frozen meal category.
What is 'cooked enriched long grain rice'?
'Cooked enriched long grain rice' refers to rice that has had certain nutrients, such as iron, niacin, thiamin mononitrate, and folic acid, added back after processing. This enrichment helps to restore some of the micronutrients lost during the milling process, making the rice more nutritionally complete than unenriched white rice.
What is a typical portion size for this product?
The serving size for LEAN CUISINE Chicken Tikka Masala is one package, which is intended to be a single meal portion. Adhering to this portion size helps manage calorie and nutrient intake. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of fresh vegetables or a small whole-grain roll.
Can I eat this product if I have dietary restrictions?
This product contains milk and soy, so it is not suitable for individuals with dairy or soy allergies. It is also a processed food, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. Always check the full ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities beyond common allergens.