Turkey vs. Chicken: What’s the Difference?

This article was written with help from AI and edited by Thrive Market’s talented team of human writers.

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When it comes to poultry, chicken and turkey are the reigning champions of dinner tables. From saucy chicken wings to a hearty Thanksgiving feast, these two birds are versatile staples in many favorite recipes and holidays. But have you ever wondered what really sets them apart? 

Whether you’re trying to decide which is healthier, tastier, or more versatile for your next meal, understanding the differences between chicken and turkey can help you make the best choice for your plate. Plus, don’t miss the round-up of our tastiest ground chicken recipes, turkey recipes, and more family-friendly dishes.

What Is Turkey?

Domestic turkeys come from the Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), a species native to North America. Belonging to the same family as chickens, Wild turkeys are known for their impressive size and striking plumage, and are a familiar sight in forests and grasslands, while domestic turkeys are bred specifically for consumption. Turkey holds a special cultural significance, particularly in the United States and Canada, where it’s the centerpiece of traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts, often served alongside cranberry sauce and gravy. 

Turkey Nutrition Facts

Turkey comes in two main types: white meat, which is found in the breast and wings, and dark meat, which comes from the legs and thighs. White meat has a mild flavor, while dark meat tends to be richer and juicier. As for nutrition, here’s what you can expect from a 100g serving of turkey. 

• Protein: 21.6g 
• Carbs: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Magnesium: 25mg
• Zinc: 1.78mg
• Potassium: 224mg
• Niacin: 7.63mg

Best Turkey Products from Thrive Market

As a protein powerhouse, turkey is a great addition to your year-round meal plan. 

Mary’s Poultry Whole Turkey

Free-range and humanely raised on family farms in California, these whole birds are ready for your holiday celebrations. Thrive Market member Diana from Oregon says they have “excellent flavor and texture,” and Hannah from New Jersey says she’ll be “ordering one every year.” 

Applegate Organic Turkey Burgers

These patties are made using humanely raised turkey and ready to be seasoned and tossed on the grill. Jacklene from Michigan says “Applegate organic turkey burgers are great. They are so flavorful. I like the fact they are organic.”

Righteous Felon Turkey Sticks, Lemon Pepper

For an on-the-go boost protein from turkey, stash these sticks in your purse, gym bag, or car. Meg from Ohio says “these are delicious with a very subtle lemon flavor that isn’t overpowering.”

Easy Turkey Recipes from Thrive Market

For a Thanksgiving spread or a festive weekend meal, these turkey recipes will liven up your dinner.

The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

For pro tips on preparing a show-stopping Thanksgiving turkey (including how long to cook a turkey) this post has what you need.

Low FODMAP Turkey Meatballs

Ideal for those following a low FODMAP diet, this recipe combines ground turkey with fresh herbs and almond flour to create tender meatballs. Served atop zucchini “pappardelle” zoodles and simmered in a low FODMAP marinara sauce, it’s a satisfying meal for all. 

One-Pot Turkey Pesto Stew

This hearty recipe is made using ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and nourishing greens. Creamy coconut milk makes it taste extra-indulgent too. 

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What Is Chicken?

Chicken is a globally beloved protein derived from the domesticated bird Gallus gallus domesticus. Versatile and nutritious, chicken is known for its mild flavor and adaptability, making it a staple in many culinary traditions (and a workhorse for quick weeknight meals).

Chicken is divided into various cuts, each offering unique textures and flavors:

• Breast: A lean cut of white meat from the underside of the bird, the breast is commonly used in salads, curries, sandwiches, and stir-fries.
• Thighs: This succulent, juicy meat comes from the upper part of the chicken’s leg. With their rich, intense flavor, chicken thighs work wonderfully in slow cooker recipes, but you can also marinate them overnight then grill, sauté with veggies, or bake them in the oven.
• Drumsticks: This succulent, dark cut of meat comes on the bone and is from the chicken’s shins. In addition to their savory, juicy flavor, chicken drumsticks are cost-effective and easy to cook.
• Wings: Like drumsticks, wings are also easy and fast to cook, and always look impressive on a platter (especially when they’re coated in your favorite finger-licking sauce).

Chicken Nutrition Facts

Like turkey, chicken also offers light and dark meat options. Here’s a nutrition breakdown for a 113g serving of chicken. 

• Protein: 18.6g 
• Carbs: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Magnesium: 20mg
• Zinc: 1.31mg
• Potassium: 189mg
• Niacin: 6.8mg

Best Chicken Products from Thrive Market

From sausage to wings, chicken might be one of the most versatile meats. Stock your freezer with these member-favorites.

Thrive Market Organic Boneless & Skinless Chicken Breasts

This organic and free-range cut hails from family-owned Pitman Farms in Sanger, California where chickens have access to outdoor areas with ample water and shade. Mary from Florida says “this chicken was extremely tender and a great value for the price I paid.”

Thrive Market Organic Ground Chicken

For chili, stuffed peppers, meatballs, and more, ground chicken is a freezer must-have. Michele from Connecticut says “Love this chicken—it’s so great for tacos!”

Thrive Market Organic Breakfast Chicken Sausage

Lighten up your morning meal with lean chicken sausage infused with organic thyme, nutmeg, and sage. Alison from Pennsylvania shares “​we have this regularly at our house, and it’s a family favorite!”

Easy Chicken Recipes from Thrive Market

Chicken is never boring when you switch it up with these tasty recipes. 

Garlic-Roasted Chicken

This foolproof recipe features a whole chicken roasted with fresh lemons, garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary and thyme. The combination infuses the meat with rich flavors, while chicken stock and white wine ensure it remains tender and juicy.

Tahini Chicken

Marinated in a blend of tahini, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, honey, and lemon juice, these chicken breasts are browned and then roasted to perfection. 

Tikka Masala with Chicken and Cauliflower

A quick take on a classic Indian dish, this recipe combines tender chicken chunks and cauliflower simmered in a tomato-based sauce enriched with ginger, garlic, and fenugreek seeds. 

Lemon Chicken with Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Marinated chicken breasts are roasted alongside smashed fingerling potatoes seasoned with fresh thyme. Served with a salad of fennel, zucchini, arugula, and mixed herbs, and accompanied by a roasted garlic aioli, this dish is a prime contender for Sunday supper.