LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE BREADED WHITE MEAT CHICKEN WITH PASTA IN A CHEESY BUFFALO-STYLE SAUCE, OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE
LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite providing a moderate amount of protein.
This LEAN CUISINE meal has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a Poor nutritional rating.
It provides 7.77g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 272.08mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it contains ingredients like modified wheat starch and palm oil.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +10 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.7g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
7.77g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
272.08mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.8g)+3
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. Ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients that undergo extensive industrial processing, such as modified wheat starch and palm oil, both present in this product. While it does offer a positive, contributing 7.77g of protein per 100g, earning a +3 bonus, this is offset by other nutritional factors. The product contains 272.08mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount, especially for a single serving. It also provides a low amount of fiber at 0.7g per 100g and lacks significant amounts of many micronutrients, with 0% DV for Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, magnesium, and zinc. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which might offer more calcium and less sodium, this LEAN CUISINE meal presents a less favorable nutritional profile due to its processing and nutrient balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lean cuisine oven fried chicken with buffalo- style mac & cheese breaded white meat chicken with pasta in a cheesy buffalo-style sauce, oven fried chicken with buffalo- style mac & cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This LEAN CUISINE meal contains 7.77g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair, immune function, and satiety. For individuals looking for a quick meal option that includes protein, this product can serve that purpose. However, it is important to balance this with other protein sources throughout the day that may offer a broader range of amino acids and fewer processed ingredients.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen meal, this product offers significant convenience for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful for busy schedules, providing a pre-portioned meal without extensive cooking. While convenience is a practical benefit, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile and balance it with less processed, whole food options when possible to ensure a nutrient-dense diet.
Contains Calcium
This product provides 87.99mg of calcium per 100g, contributing 7% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. While not a primary source, this amount can contribute to your daily calcium needs, especially when combined with other calcium-rich foods like dairy products, fortified plant milks, or leafy greens. It's a small contribution within the context of a meal.
LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing a moderate amount of protein.
How to eat it
This LEAN CUISINE meal is designed for quick and easy preparation, typically heated in a microwave or oven. It serves as a single-portion meal, often consumed for lunch or dinner when time is limited. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional composition within the context of your overall daily intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair with a side salad made with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider adding a serving of fresh fruit as a dessert to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
If sodium intake is a concern, balance this meal with other low-sodium choices throughout the day.
For a more balanced meal, add extra steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to the plate.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that this product contains several common allergens, including wheat, milk, and soy. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes modified wheat starch and palm oil, which are common in ultra-processed foods. The sodium content of 272.08mg per 100g is relatively high, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation. While generally safe for the broader population, its ultra-processed nature suggests it should not be a dietary staple.
Is LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE healthy?
This LEAN CUISINE meal scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers some protein, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food and its high sodium content mean it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is best viewed as an occasional convenience meal.
How does LEAN CUISINE OVEN FRIED CHICKEN WITH BUFFALO- STYLE MAC & CHEESE compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as those from Stouffer's, this LEAN CUISINE product may have a similar nutritional profile in terms of processing and sodium. However, specific comparisons would require evaluating the individual nutrient data of each SKU. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparison.
What is 'oven fried breaded chicken breast' in the ingredient list?
The term 'oven fried breaded chicken breast' indicates that the chicken has been coated in a breading and cooked in an oven, rather than deep-fried in oil. While this method can reduce fat compared to traditional deep frying, the breading itself still contributes to the overall processing and ingredient list, including items like wheat flour and soybean oil.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The serving size for this product is one package. This means the nutrient values provided are for the entire contents of the package. It's designed as a single-serving meal, so consuming the whole package is the intended portion.
Does this meal contain a lot of added sugar?
This LEAN CUISINE meal declares 0g of added sugar per 100g. While it does contain some naturally occurring sugars from ingredients like skim milk, the manufacturer has not added additional sugars to the formulation. This is a positive aspect compared to many other processed meals.