Did you know that a 1/2 package (340 g) of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 470 calories? If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to be aware of the nutritional value of the food you're eating. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the calorie content and other important information about this dish.
In addition to its calorie count, General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken also contains a variety of nutrients, including fat, protein, sodium, and more. By understanding the nutritional value of this dish, you can make informed decisions about how to incorporate it into your diet.
If you love Chinese food and want to enjoy General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken without sacrificing your health goals, keep reading for some helpful tips and insights.
Calorie content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
As mentioned, 1/2 package (340 g) of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 470 calories. This is an important figure to be aware of if you're trying to manage your weight or maintain a balanced diet. To put this into perspective, 470 calories is roughly equivalent to a large order of French fries or a slice of pepperoni pizza. While it's okay to indulge in these types of foods once in a while, it's important to keep portions in check. If you're looking to reduce the calorie count of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken, consider serving it over a bed of steamed vegetables instead of rice.
Serving size of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
The serving size of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken is 1/2 package (340 g). This is a generous portion size that may be too much for some people, depending on their calorie needs and activity levels. If you're looking to reduce your calorie intake, try splitting the dish with a friend or saving half for leftovers. Alternatively, you can opt for a smaller portion size by only eating 1/4 or 1/3 of the package. Remember, portion control is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet.
Fat content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A 1/2 package (340 g) of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 22 g of fat, 4.5 g of which are saturated fat. While fat is an important nutrient for our bodies, too much of it can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. To keep your fat intake in check, try pairing General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken with some steamed vegetables or a side salad. You can also look for lower-fat versions of the dish, or try making it at home with leaner cuts of chicken. If you're curious about the fat content of other Chinese dishes, check out our guide to healthy Chinese food.
Carb content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 36 g of carbohydrates. While carbohydrates are an important fuel source for our bodies, it's important to choose complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which provide more fiber and nutrients than refined carbs like white bread and pasta. To balance out the carb content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken, try serving it with a side of brown rice or quinoa. You can also experiment with substituting some of the chicken for additional veggies. For more information on healthy carbs, check out our guide to wholesome carbs for a healthier you.
Sugar content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 21 g of sugar. While sugar is a natural ingredient that can provide energy and flavor, too much of it can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. To reduce the sugar content of this dish, try making it at home with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. You can also experiment with adding different spices and herbs for extra flavor. For more tips on minimizing added sugar in your diet, check out our guide to healthy sugar alternatives.
Protein content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 24 g of protein. Protein is an important nutrient for building and repairing muscles, and can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied. To boost the protein content of this dish, try adding some extra veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. You can also experiment with different types of protein, like tofu, shrimp, or beef. For more ideas on healthy and delicious high-protein meals, check out our guide to protein powerhouses.
Sodium content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 1560 mg of sodium. While sodium is an important mineral for our bodies, too much of it can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health problems. To reduce the sodium content of this dish, try making it at home with lower-sodium soy sauce or tamari. You can also experiment with using herbs and spices like ginger, garlic, and turmeric for flavor instead of salt. For more information on healthy sodium intake and its effects on the body, check out our guide to salt and your health.
Cholesterol content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 140 mg of cholesterol. While our bodies need cholesterol to function properly, too much of it can contribute to heart disease and other health issues. If you're looking to reduce your cholesterol intake, try making this dish at home with leaner cuts of chicken or tofu. You can also try experimenting with different herbs and spices to add flavor without cholesterol. For more information on healthy cholesterol levels and its effects on the body, check out our guide to healthy cholesterol.
Fiber content of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
A serving of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains 2 g of fiber. While this isn't a high amount of fiber, every little bit helps when it comes to keeping your digestive system healthy and keeping you full and satisfied. To increase the fiber content of this dish, try serving it with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. You can also experiment with adding different whole grains like brown rice or quinoa to bulk up the dish. For more information on the benefits of fiber and how to incorporate it into your diet, check out our guide to fiber-rich foods.
Vitamins and minerals present in General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
In addition to its macronutrient content, General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. For example, 1/2 package (340 g) of the dish has been found to contain 15% of your daily value of vitamin A, 35% of your daily value of vitamin C, and 8% of your daily value of iron. While this isn't a comprehensive list of the nutrients found in General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken, it's clear that this dish packs a punch when it comes to nutritional content. To ensure that you're getting a balanced diet with all of the nutrients your body needs, try incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals.
Eating healthy doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor. With some careful planning and creativity, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals like General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken any day of the week.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken
1. What is General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken?
General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish made with crispy fried chicken pieces that are coated in a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. It is typically served with steamed rice or noodles.
2. How many calories are in General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken?
One-half package (340 g) of General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken contains approximately 470 calories.
3. Is General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken healthy?
While General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken can be a delicious meal, it is generally not considered healthy due to its high calorie, sodium, and fat content. However, you can make healthier versions of this dish by using baked or grilled chicken and reducing the amount of sauce.
4. Is General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken spicy?
Yes, General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken is typically spicy due to the use of red pepper flakes or chili paste in the sauce. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the recipe or restaurant.
5. Can you reheat General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can reheat General Tso's Spicy Garlic Chicken in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. However, the texture and quality of the dish may suffer after reheating, so it's best to consume it fresh.