If you're counting calories, you may be curious about the nutritional information of 1/2 package (227 g) of Chicken Marsala. Lucky for you, this popular dish contains around 270 calories per serving.
Not only does Chicken Marsala taste delicious, it's also a good source of several key nutrients. Let's take a closer look at the macronutrient breakdown of Chicken Marsala.
Cooking Chicken Marsala at home can be a great way to enjoy this classic dish while controlling the quality and quantity of ingredients. Keep reading for some cooking tips and health benefits of this dish.
Calories in Half Package of Chicken Marsala
One serving size of 1/2 package (227 g) Chicken Marsala contains approximately 270 calories, which is relatively moderate compared to other popular chicken dishes. Note that the calorie content may vary depending on how the dish is prepared and what ingredients are used. Creamy sauces, for example, may significantly increase the overall calorie count. If you're looking to reduce the calorie count of your meal, consider serving Chicken Marsala with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
Macronutrient Breakdown of Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a good source of several macronutrients that your body needs to function optimally. Here's a quick breakdown of the key nutrients found in this dish: - Protein: One serving of Chicken Marsala contains around 22 g of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. - Carbohydrates: Chicken Marsala typically contains some carbohydrates from the sauce and any accompanying side dishes. However, the amount is relatively low compared to other carbo-heavy dishes like pasta or rice.
Vitamins and Minerals in Chicken Marsala
In addition to macronutrients, Chicken Marsala also contains several important vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy. Here are some of the key micronutrients found in this dish: - Iron: Chicken Marsala is a good source of iron, a mineral that is essential for oxygen transport and energy production in the body. - Vitamin B6: This B-vitamin is involved in several important processes in the body, including protein metabolism and brain function.
Health Benefits of Chicken Marsala
Overall, Chicken Marsala can be a healthy and satisfying dish to incorporate into your diet. Here are a few potential benefits of this dish: - Good source of protein: As mentioned earlier, Chicken Marsala is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and development. - Nutrient-dense: Chicken Marsala contains several important vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy, such as iron and vitamin B6.
Possible Health Concerns with Chicken Marsala
While Chicken Marsala can be a healthy and delicious dish, there are a few potential health concerns to be aware of: - High in sodium: Some Chicken Marsala recipes may contain high amounts of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure over time. - High in fat: If made with heavy cream or lots of butter, Chicken Marsala can be high in saturated fat and calories.
Cooking and Serving Suggestions for Chicken Marsala
Looking to cook Chicken Marsala at home? Here are a few tips to make the process easier and more delicious: - Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins for a leaner, lower-fat dish. - Serve with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
Alternatives to Chicken Marsala
If you're not a fan of Chicken Marsala or are simply looking for some variety in your diet, here are a few alternatives to try: - Chicken Piccata: This dish is similar to Chicken Marsala but uses a lemon juice and caper sauce instead of a mushroom and wine sauce. - Chicken Parmesan: This classic Italian dish features breaded and fried chicken topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Variations of Chicken Marsala
While traditional Chicken Marsala is made with mushrooms and white wine, there are several variations on this classic dish to try: - Chicken Marsala with prosciutto: This variation adds savory prosciutto to the dish for extra flavor and depth. - Creamy Chicken Marsala: For a richer, more indulgent take on Chicken Marsala, try adding some heavy cream to the sauce.
Nutrition Comparison of Different Chicken Dishes
Looking to compare the nutritional values of different chicken dishes? Here's how some popular options stack up against Chicken Marsala: - Chicken Alfredo: 1 serving (360 g) contains around 1,200 calories, 72 g fat, and 2,800 mg sodium. - Grilled Chicken Sandwich: 1 sandwich (250 g) contains around 350 calories, 6.5 g fat, and 890 mg sodium.
Overall Review of Chicken Marsala
Overall, Chicken Marsala can be a nutritious and tasty dish to include in your meal plan. Just be sure to watch your portion sizes and pay attention to any added ingredients like cream or butter that can significantly increase the calorie and fat count of the dish. When prepared with lean chicken and plenty of vegetables, Chicken Marsala can be a healthy and satisfying way to get your protein fix. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal idea, consider giving this classic dish a try!
“Tasty and nutritious.”
FAQs about Chicken Marsala
1. What is Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is a dish made of chicken breast cutlets cooked in a Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and garlic.
2. How many calories are in half a package (227 g) of Chicken Marsala?
There are approximately 270 calories in half a package of Chicken Marsala.
3. Does Chicken Marsala contain gluten?
It depends on the recipe and the brand. Some Chicken Marsala recipes and brands may contain gluten as a thickening agent or in the Marsala wine used to make the sauce. It is best to check the ingredients list before consuming if you have a gluten allergy or intolerance.
4. What is the best way to cook Chicken Marsala?
The best way to cook Chicken Marsala is to season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour and cook in a pan with olive oil and butter until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and sauté sliced mushrooms and garlic until fragrant. Pour in Marsala wine and chicken broth and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce before serving.
5. What are some side dishes that go well with Chicken Marsala?
Some side dishes that go well with Chicken Marsala are roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.