1 serving (150 grams) contains 450 calories, 22.5 grams of protein, 22.5 grams of fat, and 37.5 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
714.3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.7 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.1 g | 35% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95.2 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 1190.5 mg | 51% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 59.5 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 4.8 g | ||
| protein | 35.7 g | 71% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 47.6 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 476.2 mg | 10% | |
* 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
About Chinese chicken balls
Chinese chicken balls are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often featured in Westernized Chinese restaurants. These are made by coating bite-sized pieces of chicken with a seasoned batter and deep-frying them until golden and crispy, often served with a sweet and sour sauce. Chicken is a rich source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The batter typically contains wheat flour, which provides carbohydrates, though the deep-frying process increases the dish's calorie and fat content. While these are not a traditional part of authentic Chinese cuisine, they have become a favorite in takeout-style Chinese menus around the world. Due to frying, the dish is best consumed in moderation, complemented by vegetables to enhance its nutritional value.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein, with an average serving providing around 25-30g of high-quality protein for muscle repair and maintenance.
- Contains selenium from chicken, an essential mineral that supports the immune system and thyroid function.
- Chicken is a good source of niacin (vitamin B3), which helps support energy metabolism and maintain healthy skin.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked chicken balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Common Questions About Chinese chicken balls Nutrition
Are Chinese Chicken Balls high in protein?
Chinese Chicken Balls do contain protein due to the chicken; on average, a serving of five balls provides about 15-20 grams of protein. However, the protein content varies depending on the batter-to-chicken ratio, as the deep-fried coating significantly adds more carbohydrates and fats rather than protein.
Can I eat Chinese Chicken Balls on a keto diet?
Traditional Chinese Chicken Balls are not keto-friendly due to their batter, which is usually made from flour and cornstarch and is high in carbs. A single serving (around five balls) can contain 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, making it incompatible with keto diets. However, keto-friendly versions can be made using almond or coconut flour for the batter.
Are Chinese Chicken Balls healthy?
Chinese Chicken Balls are typically high in calories, fat, and sodium due to being deep-fried and paired with sugary sauces. A single serving can contain roughly 300-400 calories and up to 20 grams of fat. While they provide some protein, they should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is a reasonable portion size for Chinese Chicken Balls?
A reasonable portion size is about five chicken balls, which equals roughly 250-400 calories depending on preparation. To make the meal more balanced, pair it with steamed vegetables or a lighter side dish to avoid overloading on fats and carbs.
How do Chinese Chicken Balls compare to other fried chicken dishes?
Compared to fried chicken tenders or nuggets, Chinese Chicken Balls often have a thicker, more carb-heavy batter. This makes them generally higher in carbohydrates and calories per serving. However, they can be similarly customized by baking or using alternative ingredients to create healthier versions.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
