Chicken in sweet and sour sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 69/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 250 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

Calories		294.1
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		9.4 g	12%
	Saturated Fat	2.4 g	12%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.1 mg	15%
Sodium		705.9 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		35.3 g	12%
	Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	8%
	Sugars	23.5 g
protein		17.6 g	35%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		23.5 mg	1%
Iron		1.8 mg	10%
Potassium		352.9 mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

Fat: 84 cal (28.6%)

Protein: 70 cal (23.8%)

Carbs: 141 cal (47.7%)

About Chicken in sweet and sour sauce

Chicken in sweet and sour sauce is a popular dish originating from Chinese cuisine, where the tangy and mildly sweet sauce is paired with tender chicken pieces, often alongside vegetables such as bell peppers and onions. The dish combines protein from chicken with carbohydrates from the sauce, which is typically made using ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and sometimes ketchup or fruit. A serving (approximately 1 cup) provides an average of 240-300 calories, 15-20 grams of protein, and variable amounts of carbohydrates depending on the sauce's composition. It can be a balanced meal when paired with additional vegetables or whole grains like brown rice.

Health Benefits

• Rich source of lean protein from chicken, which supports muscle repair and maintenance.
• Provides Vitamin C from bell peppers in the dish, helping support immune health.
• Contains small amounts of Vitamin A from the vegetables, promoting healthy skin and vision.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy, gluten, corn (if cornstarch or corn syrup is used), sulfites (if vinegar is derived from sulfited sources)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, low-fat diets (with minimal oil and sugar in preparation)

Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets, gluten-free diets (unless prepared with gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch)

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming, and avoid leaving at room temperature for extended periods to ensure food safety.

Common Questions About Chicken in sweet and sour sauce Nutrition

Is chicken in sweet and sour sauce high in protein?

Chicken in sweet and sour sauce generally contains a moderate amount of protein, typically around 20-25 grams per serving, depending on the portion size and preparation method. The chicken provides the bulk of the protein, while the sauce adds minimal protein and more carbohydrates.

Can I eat chicken in sweet and sour sauce on a keto or low-carb diet?

Chicken in sweet and sour sauce is not typically keto-friendly due to the sauce, which is often high in sugar and carbs, with around 15-25 grams of carbohydrates per serving. If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you can modify the recipe by using sugar-free or low-carb sweeteners in the sauce.

Is chicken in sweet and sour sauce healthy?

Chicken in sweet and sour sauce can be part of a balanced meal, as it provides protein and potentially some vitamins from added vegetables like bell peppers and pineapples. However, the sauce is often high in sugar and sodium, with some recipes containing up to 15-20 grams of sugar per serving, so portions should be monitored.

What is the recommended portion size for chicken in sweet and sour sauce?

A typical portion size for chicken in sweet and sour sauce is about 1-1.5 cups (250-350 grams), including the chicken, sauce, and any vegetables. To keep the dish balanced, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a small portion of plain rice while being mindful of calorie and sugar intake.

How does chicken in sweet and sour sauce compare to similar dishes like orange chicken?

Chicken in sweet and sour sauce tends to be slightly less sweet and tangy compared to orange chicken, which often uses orange juice or zest for flavor. Both dishes can be high in sugar and calories, but chicken in sweet and sour sauce provides a similar protein content, making portion control key for either choice.

Data Sources & Scientific References