General Tso Chicken

Protein

A popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy chicken in a sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce.

🔥 Spicy and flavorful

💪 Rich in protein

❤️ High in sodium

What is General Tso Chicken?

General Tso's chicken is a deep-fried chicken dish coated in a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy sauce. It is inspired by Chinese cuisine but is primarily a Chinese-American creation, popularized in the 1970s. It does not have a traditional Chinese counterpart and is famed for its bold flavor profile.

The dish features bite-sized chicken pieces that are battered, fried, and tossed in a sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and chili. It is typically served with steamed rice or vegetables and is known for its crispy texture and sticky, umami-rich sauce.

Nutritionally, General Tso's chicken is a good source of protein but is often high in calories, fats, and sodium due to the frying process and the sauce's sugar and sodium content. It can be modified for healthier versions by baking the chicken or reducing the sauce's sugar and salt levels.

Nutrition Highlights

460

Calories

per serving

25g

Protein

per serving

21g

Fat

per serving

38g

Carbohydrates

per serving

1,300mg

Sodium

per serving

These values are based on a standard serving size. Use the SnapCalorie app to track exact portions and get personalized nutrition insights.

Health Benefits of General Tso Chicken

💪

Provides Protein for Muscle Health

Thanks to its chicken base, General Tso's chicken contains a high amount of protein, which supports muscle repair, growth, and overall tissue health.

• Rich in Protein

⚡

Boosts Energy Levels

The dish's carbohydrate content, primarily from the sauce and batter, provides an immediate source of energy to power your day or workout.

• Rich in Carbohydrates

💚

Satisfies Cravings

Its savory, sweet, and spicy flavor profile can help curb cravings, making it a satisfying indulgence when eaten in moderation.

• Rich in Sugar
• Rich in Spices

Diet Compatibility

Is General Tso Chicken suitable for your diet? Here's what you need to know:

✗ Vegan: Contains chicken and often uses egg in the batter.

✗ Keto: High in carbs due to batter and sugary sauce.

✗ Gluten-Free: Traditionally made with wheat-based soy sauce and flour in batter.

✗ Paleo: Includes sugars and processed oils.

✗ Low-Carb: High carb content from batter and sauce.

🍽️ How to Enjoy General Tso Chicken

Breakfast

Serve leftovers with scrambled eggs in a breakfast wrap.

Tip: Use low-sodium versions of the dish to keep it lighter for the morning.

Lunch

Pair with steamed broccoli and brown rice for a balanced plate.

Tip: Opt for baked chicken instead of fried to lighten it up.

Dinner

Enjoy with stir-fried vegetables and cauliflower rice.

Tip: Prepare a homemade sauce using less sugar and low-sodium soy sauce.

Snack

Use small portions as a protein topper for a green salad.

Tip: Chop the chicken into strips and drizzle over spicy sesame dressing.

✅ The Bottom Line

General Tso's chicken is a flavorful and indulgent dish that offers a decent amount of protein but is high in calories, fat, and sodium. It is a satisfying occasional treat, especially for fans of sweet and spicy flavors.

To make it a healthier choice, consider baking the chicken instead of frying and reducing the sugar and sodium in the sauce. Pair with steamed vegetables and whole grains for a more balanced meal.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. USDA FoodData Central - Comprehensive nutrient composition data
2. FDA Nutrition Facts Label - Daily value percentages and guidelines
3. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Nutrient recommendations and health information
4. Dietary Guidelines for Americans - Evidence-based nutritional guidance