1 serving (146 grams) contains 431 calories, 18.8 grams of protein, 23.9 grams of fat, and 35.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
430.7 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.9 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 77.4 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 635.1 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35.0 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 4% | |
| Sugars | 16.9 g | ||
| protein | 18.8 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.7 mcg | 58% | |
| Calcium | 17.5 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.7 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 293.5 mg | 6% | |
* 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 General tso chicken
General Tso Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that features deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. Originating from Hunan cuisine, its American adaptation has veered towards a sweeter flavor profile. Nutritionally, a typical serving is calorie-dense, owing to the frying process and sugar-laden sauce, providing about 300-500 calories per serving. It typically contains moderate amounts of protein from chicken but can be high in fat and sodium. While delicious, it is best enjoyed occasionally due to its potential contribution to excessive caloric intake and low micronutrient content.
Health Benefits
- Provides lean protein from chicken, which supports muscle repair and growth (27-35g protein per serving).
- Contains may offer small amounts of niacin (Vitamin B3) from chicken, essential for energy metabolism.
- May be a source of iron from chicken, which supports oxygen transport in the blood.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven or skillet to maintain crispness.
Common Questions About General tso chicken Nutrition
Is General Tso Chicken high in protein?
General Tso Chicken typically contains around 20-30 grams of protein per serving (1 cup or about 250-300 grams), depending on the recipe and portion size. The protein comes primarily from the chicken, which is usually breaded and fried, though the added batter and sauce can increase calories significantly.
Can I eat General Tso Chicken on a keto diet?
General Tso Chicken is not keto-friendly in its traditional form because it is breaded and fried, and the sauce often contains sugar or cornstarch. However, it can be modified by using almond flour for breading and a low-carb sweetener in the sauce.
Is General Tso Chicken healthy to eat?
Traditional General Tso Chicken is high in calories, often ranging from 800-1,000 calories per serving, due to frying and sugary sauces. It also may contain high amounts of sodium and fat. While it provides some protein, it’s best enjoyed in moderation or modified for a healthier version.
How much General Tso Chicken should I eat per meal?
A typical serving size of General Tso Chicken is about 1 cup (250-300 grams). To keep portion sizes balanced, pair it with steamed vegetables or a small portion of whole-grain rice. Aim to limit your intake to 1-1.5 servings to avoid excessive calories and sugar.
How does General Tso Chicken compare to Orange Chicken?
Both General Tso Chicken and Orange Chicken are sweet and savory Chinese-American dishes, but General Tso’s sauce is usually spicier and less citrusy. In terms of calories, both are similar, as they are typically fried and coated in sugary sauces, but General Tso Chicken may offer a slightly more robust flavor profile due to the added spice.
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.
- USDA FoodData - General tso chicken DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Sodium Intake and Healthy Eating PatternsDietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025Explores sodium content in foods like General Tso's chicken and its impact on dietary patterns and health recommendations.
- Chinese Restaurants: Quantitative Analysis of Sodium Content in DishesJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsAnalyzes sodium levels in popular Chinese dishes, including General Tso's chicken, and discusses implications for health and nutrition.
- Nutrition and Chronic Disease Prevention through Reduced Sugar ConsumptionHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthDiscusses the role of sugar-laden sauces, such as in General Tso's chicken, in chronic disease risk and dietary adjustments.
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.
