1 package Kung Pao Chicken contains approximately 350 calories. This popular Chinese dish is a spicy stir-fry made with chicken and vegetables, topped with peanuts. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's good to be mindful of the nutritional content of this dish.
Along with calories, Kung Pao Chicken contains 14g of fat, 19g of carbohydrates, and 33g of protein. It's important to pay attention to your macronutrient intake, especially if you're following specific dietary restrictions.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional information of Kung Pao Chicken, as well as the ingredients and spices used to give it its distinct taste.
Calories in Kung Pao Chicken: 350
As previously mentioned, one package of Kung Pao Chicken contains around 350 calories. This number can vary depending on the specific recipe or restaurant that you order from. It's important to keep in mind that the calorie count of Kung Pao Chicken can add up quickly, especially if you're eating other high-calorie foods throughout the day. If you're looking to reduce your calorie intake, consider ordering a smaller portion of Kung Pao Chicken or pairing it with a lower-calorie side dish.
Fat Content in Kung Pao Chicken: 14g
Kung Pao Chicken is a high-protein dish, but it also contains a significant amount of fat. One serving of Kung Pao Chicken typically contains around 14g of fat. It's important to note that not all types of fat are bad for you. Kung Pao Chicken contains both healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from the peanuts and sometimes sesame oil used in the recipe. However, it also contains saturated fat from the chicken thighs or breast meat used in the dish. If you're watching your fat intake, try to limit your portion sizes when eating Kung Pao Chicken, and opt for a leaner protein source such as tofu or shrimp.
Carbs in Kung Pao Chicken: 19g
Kung Pao Chicken is a relatively low-carb dish, with one serving containing around 19g of carbohydrates. If you're following a low-carb diet, you can still enjoy Kung Pao Chicken as a part of your meal plan. However, be mindful of other sources of carbs in your diet such as rice or noodles that may be served with the dish. If you're trying to reduce your carb intake, ask for a vegetable stir-fry instead of Kung Pao Chicken or opt for a smaller portion size.
Protein in Kung Pao Chicken: 33g
Kung Pao Chicken is a high-protein dish, with one serving containing around 33g of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, Kung Pao Chicken can be a good option. Keep in mind that the protein content of Kung Pao Chicken can vary depending on the amount of chicken used in each serving. If you're trying to hit a specific protein target, be mindful of your portion sizes.
Sodium in Kung Pao Chicken: 900mg
Kung Pao Chicken is a fairly high-sodium dish, with one serving containing around 900mg of sodium. While sodium is an essential nutrient that helps regulate fluid balance in the body, consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Be mindful of other sources of sodium in your diet, and try to limit your portion sizes when enjoying Kung Pao Chicken.
Cholesterol in Kung Pao Chicken: 95mg
Kung Pao Chicken contains dietary cholesterol, with one serving containing around 95mg. While dietary cholesterol is not as harmful as previously thought, it can still contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels in some individuals. If you have high cholesterol or are looking to reduce your intake, consider ordering a lower-cholesterol dish or reducing your portion sizes when enjoying Kung Pao Chicken.
Vitamins in Kung Pao Chicken: A, C
Kung Pao Chicken contains several essential vitamins, including vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision and skin, while vitamin C is important for immune function and collagen synthesis. Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help support overall health and well-being.
Minerals in Kung Pao Chicken: Iron, Calcium
Kung Pao Chicken also contains important minerals such as iron and calcium. Iron is essential for healthy blood function and can help prevent anemia, while calcium is important for bone health and muscle function. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help ensure that your body is getting the minerals it needs.
Ingredients in Kung Pao Chicken: Chicken, Peanuts, Vegetables
Kung Pao Chicken is made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, peanuts, and vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. Some recipes may also include other ingredients such as water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, or mushrooms. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check with your server or the restaurant about the specific ingredients used in their recipe.
Spices in Kung Pao Chicken: Chili Flakes, Ginger, Garlic
Kung Pao Chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices that give it its signature flavor. These spices may include chili flakes, ginger, and garlic, along with other seasonings such as soy sauce or rice vinegar. The specific blend of spices used may vary depending on the recipe, but overall they contribute to the dish's unique taste and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kung Pao Chicken
1. What is Kung Pao Chicken?
Kung Pao Chicken is a spicy stir-fried dish made with diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. It originated in Sichuan, China and has become popular in Chinese restaurants around the world.
2. How many calories are in a package of Kung Pao Chicken?
A package of Kung Pao Chicken typically contains 350 calories. However, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the size and ingredients of the package.
3. Is Kung Pao Chicken spicy?
Yes, Kung Pao Chicken is known for being a spicy dish. It usually contains chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and other hot spices that give it a bold and spicy flavor. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the specific recipe or restaurant.
4. What other ingredients are typically included in Kung Pao Chicken?
Along with diced chicken and peanuts, Kung Pao Chicken often contains vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots. It is also typically seasoned with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and other spices to create a complex and flavorful dish.
5. Is Kung Pao Chicken a healthy choice?
Kung Pao Chicken can be a healthy dish if made with lean protein and lots of vegetables. However, it can also be high in calories, sodium, and fat if made with added sugars or deep-fried chicken. As with any dish, it's important to pay attention to portion sizes and choose a balance of nutritious ingredients.