Sweet and sour chicken balls

Dinner

Item Rating: 65/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 350 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)

Calories		552.1
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		23.7 g	30%
	Saturated Fat	4.7 g	23%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		63.1 mg	21%
Sodium		946.4 mg	41%
Total Carbohydrates		63.1 g	22%
	Dietary Fiber	3.2 g	11%
	Sugars	15.8 g
protein		23.7 g	47%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.3 mg	3%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		315.5 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

⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 213 cal (38.1%)

Protein: 94 cal (16.9%)

Carbs: 252 cal (45.0%)

About Sweet and sour chicken balls

Sweet and sour chicken balls are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often consisting of battered chicken pieces fried until crispy and served with a tangy, flavorful sweet and sour sauce. This dish combines protein from the chicken with a carbohydrate-rich batter and occasional additions of vegetables like bell peppers or pineapples in the accompanying sauce. Typically high in energy due to frying and the sugar content in the sauce, this meal provides approximately 250-300 calories per serving, with moderate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. While delicious and satisfying, it is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and occasionally due to its sugar and fat content.

Health Benefits

• Chicken is a rich source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and growth.
• Contains vitamin C if served with a sauce featuring bell peppers or pineapple, which supports immune health and collagen formation.
• Provides essential minerals such as phosphorus and selenium from the chicken, promoting bone health and aiding antioxidant defenses.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (in the batter), eggs (in some batters), soy (in some sauces), sesame (if included in the sauce or garnish)

Suitable for: High-protein diet (with moderation of batter and sauce), non-vegetarian diet

Not suitable for: Vegetarian diet, vegan diet, gluten-free diet (unless batter is made gluten-free), low-sodium diet (due to potential soy sauce in the recipe)

Selection and Storage

Store leftover sweet and sour chicken balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.

Common Questions About Sweet and sour chicken balls Nutrition

How many calories and how much protein are in sweet and sour chicken balls?

Sweet and sour chicken balls typically contain around 300-400 calories per serving (about 5-6 pieces) depending on preparation and batter thickness. They provide approximately 15-20 grams of protein per serving, mainly from the chicken, making them a moderate source of protein.

Are sweet and sour chicken balls compatible with a keto diet?

Sweet and sour chicken balls are generally not keto-friendly as they are coated in batter made from flour, which is high in carbohydrates. Additionally, the sweet and sour sauce often contains sugar, further increasing the carb count. A keto alternative would require low-carb substitutions for the batter and sauce.

Are sweet and sour chicken balls healthy to eat regularly?

Sweet and sour chicken balls are best consumed occasionally due to their high fat content from deep frying and added sugar in the sauce. They can be calorie-dense and may contribute to weight gain if eaten frequently. Opting for baked versions or reducing sauce quantity can be healthier choices.

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

A typical serving size for sweet and sour chicken balls is 5-6 pieces, which ranges from 300-400 calories. Pairing them with steamed vegetables or a light salad can balance the meal and add nutritional value.

How do sweet and sour chicken balls compare to other Chinese-style chicken dishes?

Sweet and sour chicken balls are more calorie-dense than stir-fried chicken dishes due to the batter and frying process. Compared to options like chicken chow mein or kung pao chicken, which focus on lean cooking methods and vegetables, sweet and sour chicken balls are higher in fat and sugar but may appeal more to those seeking crispy textures and sweet flavors.

Data Sources & Scientific References