Did you know that 1/2 package (312 g) of Orange Chicken contains 420 calories? If you're watching your calories, it's good to know how much you're consuming. Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish made with battered chicken and a sweet orange-flavored sauce.

If you're curious about the nutritional information of this dish, you should know that in addition to the 420 calories, it also contains 17 grams of fat, 49 grams of carbohydrates, and 16 grams of protein.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Orange Chicken, from its ingredients to its health benefits and various offerings in restaurants.

Calories in Orange Chicken

As mentioned earlier, 1/2 package (312 g) of Orange Chicken contains 420 calories. However, if you go to a restaurant, the calorie count may vary depending on the serving size and the recipe used. If you want to keep your calorie intake in check, you can try making your own Orange Chicken at home with lighter ingredients or opting for a smaller portion size at restaurants.

Orange Chicken Serving Size

The recommended serving size for Orange Chicken is 1 cup, which is approximately 156 g. This serving size contains around 210 calories and 8 grams of fat. If you're buying pre-packaged Orange Chicken, the serving size may differ. To determine the appropriate serving size for your needs, you should consider your daily calorie intake and how much you plan to eat throughout the day. Additionally, pairing Orange Chicken with vegetables or a side salad can help fill you up without overdoing it on the calories.

Orange Chicken Ingredients

The ingredients used in Orange Chicken can vary from recipe to recipe, but some of the key ingredients include chicken breast, cornstarch, soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients are used to create the sweet and savory flavor that Orange Chicken is known for. If you're making Orange Chicken at home, you can experiment with different ingredients and variations to find the recipe that works best for you. Some recipes call for deep-frying the chicken, while others use a lighter cooking method like baking or sautéing.

Cooking Method for Orange Chicken

The cooking method for Orange Chicken can vary depending on the recipe you're using. Some recipes call for deep-frying the chicken to achieve a crispy texture, while others use a lighter cooking method like baking or sautéing. If you're making Orange Chicken at home, it's important to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the sauce is the right consistency. If you're ordering Orange Chicken at a restaurant, you may want to ask the waiter about the cooking method used to prepare the dish. Some restaurants may use a heavy hand with the sauce, which can add extra calories and sodium to the dish. You can also request for less sauce or for the sauce to be on the side.

Orange Chicken Side Dish Suggestions

Orange Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, vegetables, and salads. Rice can help balance out the sweet and savory flavors of the dish, while vegetables like broccoli or green beans can add some much-needed fiber and nutrients to your meal. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can try pairing Orange Chicken with a side salad or a vegetable stir-fry. These options can help you get your daily dose of veggies while still enjoying the delicious flavors of Orange Chicken.

Nutritional Benefits of Orange Chicken

While Orange Chicken is not typically known as a health food, it can still provide some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. Chicken is a good source of protein, which can help keep you full and satisfied for longer periods of time. Additionally, oranges are high in vitamin C, which can provide immune-boosting benefits. If you're looking to make Orange Chicken healthier, you can experiment with using less sugar in the sauce or swapping out chicken breast for a leaner protein like tofu or shrimp. Pairing Orange Chicken with vegetables can also help increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Restrictions for Orange Chicken Consumption

If you have any dietary restrictions, you should be aware that Orange Chicken typically contains gluten, soy, and possibly peanuts. If you have a gluten allergy or intolerance, you can look for gluten-free Orange Chicken options or make your own at home with gluten-free ingredients. If you have a soy allergy or intolerance, you can try using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce in your Orange Chicken recipe. Additionally, if you're watching your sodium intake, you may want to be cautious when consuming Orange Chicken, as the sauce can be high in sodium. You can try making your own sauce with less sodium or asking for less sauce when ordering at a restaurant.

Restaurant-Specific Orange Chicken Variations

Orange Chicken is a popular dish at Chinese-American restaurants, but the recipe and preparation can vary depending on the establishment. Some restaurants may use a spicier sauce or different cuts of chicken, while others may offer a vegetarian or gluten-free option. If you're looking to try Orange Chicken at a new restaurant, you can read reviews and ask the waiter for recommendations. Additionally, you can try making Orange Chicken at home with different recipes to find the version that matches your taste preferences.

Alternatives to Orange Chicken

If you're not a fan of Orange Chicken, there are plenty of other Chinese-American dishes to try. Some popular options include Kung Pao Chicken, Beef and Broccoli, and General Tso's Chicken. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can try steamed vegetables or steamed dumplings. If you're looking for a healthier version of Orange Chicken, you can try swapping out the chicken for leaner protein sources like tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken breast. You can also experiment with different sauces and flavors to create a new and exciting dish.

Making Orange Chicken at Home

If you enjoy cooking and want to try making Orange Chicken at home, there are plenty of recipes available online. Some recipes call for deep-frying the chicken, while others use a lighter cooking method like baking or sautéing. To make your own Orange Chicken, you'll need a few key ingredients like chicken breast, cornstarch, soy sauce, orange juice, and brown sugar. When making Orange Chicken at home, it's important to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the sauce is the right consistency. Additionally, you can experiment with different ingredients and variations to find the recipe that works best for you.