One of the most popular Chinese dishes in the US is Orange Chicken, and it's easy to see why. The sticky, sweet, and tangy sauce combined with crispy chicken pieces is a tasty combination that anyone would love. However, if you're watching your weight or monitoring your nutrition, you may be wondering about the calorie content of Orange Chicken. Here's everything you need to know:

A 329g serving of Orange Chicken has around 310 calories. However, the exact nutritional content of Orange Chicken can vary depending on the recipe used and the brand that sells it. In this article, we'll delve into the nutritional information of Orange Chicken and explore whether it can be part of a balanced diet.

Let's discover the pros and cons of this delicious dish so you can make an informed decision about whether to include it in your diet or not.

Calories in Orange Chicken

A 329g serving of Orange Chicken has about 310 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the recipe, ingredients, and method of preparation. Additionally, the serving size can also differ depending on the brand and restaurant that serves Orange Chicken. Hence, it is essential to keep track of your calorie intake while consuming Orange Chicken. The calorie content of Orange Chicken's sauce is particularly high, mainly due to the amount of sugar used to balance the flavors. However, by reducing the amount of sauce used, you can reduce the total calorie intake of a serving. Alternatively, making Orange Chicken from scratch, with fresh ingredients and healthful sauce ingredients, will ensure you have a better idea of the calorie content. Counting calories is one way to monitor your diet, but it is also essential to consider other aspects of nutrition, such as protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

How much protein in Orange Chicken?

Protein is an essential macronutrient that is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. A serving of Orange Chicken contains around 16 grams of protein, which is a decent amount compared to the amount of calories it provides. However, the protein content of different types of Orange Chicken can vary depending on the chicken part used to make the dish. White meat chicken, such as chicken breast, contains more protein and less fat than dark meat chicken, like chicken thighs. Hence, choosing white meat chicken to make Orange Chicken can increase the protein content of the dish while reducing the total fat intake.

What are the carbs in Orange Chicken?

The bulk of the calories in Orange Chicken come from carbohydrates, mainly from the sauce. A 329g serving of Orange Chicken contains around 35 grams of carbohydrates, most of which are from sugar. Sugar can spike your blood sugar levels, leading to a fast energy crash and increased hunger. Therefore, it is essential to moderate your carbohydrate intake and sugar consumption in your diet.

How much fat in Orange Chicken?

A 329g serving of Orange Chicken contains around 11 grams of fat, most of which comes from the chicken pieces. While it is essential to consume some fat in your diet, too much of saturated or unhealthy fats can increase the risk of developing heart diseases, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Hence, it is best to consume Orange Chicken in moderation and choose healthier fat sources in your daily diet.

Is Orange Chicken high in sodium?

Sodium is an essential mineral required by the body to maintain fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve function. However, consuming too much sodium can cause high blood pressure, water retention, and bloating. A 329g serving of Orange Chicken contains about 700-800 mg of sodium, which is close to one-third of the recommended daily sodium intake. Therefore, consuming Orange Chicken in moderation is essential, especially if you have high blood pressure or heart disease.

Does Orange Chicken contain sugar?

Yes, Orange Chicken contains sugar, mainly in the sauce. Most restaurant and store-bought Orange Chicken uses a high amount of sugar to balance the flavors of the dish. Consuming too much sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. Therefore, it is essential to track your sugar intake and choose sugar-free options whenever possible.

Is Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Orange Chicken is not usually gluten-free as it is commonly made with batter-fried chicken. The batter may contain wheat flour, which is a source of gluten. Additionally, the sauce may also contain soy sauce, which contains gluten. However, it's possible to make gluten-free Orange Chicken at home by using gluten-free flour and soy sauce.

What are the vitamins and minerals in Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken contains various vitamins and minerals, depending on the recipe and ingredients used. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium. However, the high fat and sugar content in Orange Chicken can overshadow the nutritional benefits of the dish. Therefore, it's essential to eat Orange Chicken in moderation and pair it with healthy sides and vegetables to boost the nutritional value of your meal.

Can Orange Chicken be part of a balanced diet?

Yes, Orange Chicken can be part of a balanced diet as long as it is consumed in moderation and paired with healthy sides and vegetables. While Orange Chicken can be high in calories, sugar, and fat, it is possible to prepare a healthier version of the dish by baking, broiling, or grilling the chicken instead of frying it. Additionally, reducing the amount of sauce used or choosing a lower-sugar sauce option can also make the dish healthier. Moreover, pairing Orange Chicken with fiber-rich vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bok choy can increase the nutrient density of your meal and make you feel fuller for longer. Alternatively, choosing brown rice or whole-grain noodles instead of white rice can increase the fiber and protein content of your meal and reduce the glycemic index of your meal. In conclusion, Orange Chicken can be satisfying and delicious when consumed in moderation and paired with healthy sides and vegetables. Remember to keep track of your calorie, sugar and fat intake, and make healthier choices when possible.

How to make Orange Chicken healthier?

While Orange Chicken may not be the healthiest meal option, there are ways to make it healthier. Here are a few tips: * Use skinless chicken breast or thighs instead of battered chicken for a healthier protein source * Bake or grill the chicken instead of frying it for a lower-fat cooking method