Calories in General Tso Chicken
General Tso Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish consisting of deep-fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. While high in protein, it is also significant in calories, sugar, and sodium due to the breading and glaze.
Common Variations
| Variation | Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 g | 100 g | 203 | 12.9g | 11.2g | 11.7g |
| 1 oz (28g) | 1 oz (28g) | 58 | 3.7g | 3.2g | 3.3g |
| 1 serving (146 g) | 1 serving (146 g) | 296 | 18.8g | 16.3g | 17g |
Health Benefits
High protein content supports muscle maintenance and growth.
Provides a quick source of energy from carbohydrates.
Contains essential minerals like selenium and phosphorus from the chicken.
Nutrition Tips
- Be mindful of portion sizes as this dish is very calorie-dense.
- Ask for the sauce on the side to control the amount of sugar and sodium consumed.
- Pair the chicken with a large side of steamed vegetables to increase fiber intake.
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to add more complex carbohydrates.
- Drink plenty of water to help your body process the high sodium content.
GAYA Tracking Tip
For the most accurate tracking, take a photo that shows the entire portion size relative to the plate. If you have a side of rice, ensure it is visible so GAYA can identify and calculate each component separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is General Tso Chicken so high in calories?+
The high calorie count comes from deep-frying the chicken in batter and coating it in a thick sauce made with significant amounts of sugar and oil.
Is General Tso Chicken considered a healthy meal?+
It is generally considered an occasional treat rather than a health food due to its high sodium, sugar, and saturated fat content.
How can I reduce the calories when ordering this dish?+
You can reduce calories by asking for the chicken to be 'velveted' (steamed or lightly sautéed) instead of deep-fried, and requesting less sauce.
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