Big vs small

Emu Egg vs Chicken Egg

How one giant emu egg compares to the everyday chicken egg.

The biggest difference between an emu egg and a chicken egg is size. One emu egg equals about 10 to 12 chicken eggs. Beyond that, the emu egg has a richer yolk, a dark green shell, and a higher total nutrition load simply because there is so much more of it. For everyday cooking a chicken egg is convenient, but an emu egg is a memorable centerpiece.

Side by side

Emu vs Chicken

FeatureEmu EggChicken Egg
Weight1 to 1.5 lbabout 2 oz
Volume10 to 12 chicken eggs1
Protein50 to 60 gabout 6 g
Caloriesabout 1,300about 70
Shell colordark greenwhite or brown
Tasterich, creamyfamiliar, mild

When to Use Each

Reach for a chicken egg when you want one quick egg. Reach for an emu egg when you are cooking for a group, want a richer dish, or simply want to make breakfast special. Per gram the nutrition is similar, so the choice mostly comes down to size, richness, and the fun of a giant green egg.

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

How many chicken eggs equal one emu egg?
About 10 to 12.
Is an emu egg more nutritious?
Per gram it is similar, but one egg carries far more total nutrition.
Does it taste different?
It is richer and creamier, with a larger yolk.
Can I swap emu for chicken in recipes?
Yes. Use about three chicken eggs worth per quarter emu egg.
Why is the shell green?
Pigments deposited as the shell forms give emu eggs their dark green color.

Taste the Difference

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