3 oz (85 g) Tempura Chicken has a calorie count of 160, making it a popular choice for those looking for a satisfying yet easy-to-prepare meal. When it comes to tempura chicken, knowing its calorie and nutritional value can help you make healthier choices.
According to the USDA, 3 oz (85 g) Tempura Chicken contains approximately 14 grams of protein, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 9 grams of fat. It's also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy protein option for individuals who are watching their diet.
Besides its rich flavor and tender texture, tempura chicken offers several health benefits.
What is Tempura Chicken?
Tempura chicken is a Japanese dish made by deep-frying chicken pieces that have been coated in a light batter of egg, flour, cornstarch, and cold water. The batter is known for its unique texture and crispiness, which gives tempura chicken its signature taste and crunchiness. The dish has become a favorite in many parts of the world due to its versatility and ability to accompany vegetables, rice, or noodles. It can be enjoyed as a main dish or as an appetizer. Tempura chicken is easy to make and can be cooked at home or bought at Asian grocery stores and restaurants.
How many Calories in Tempura Chicken?
As mentioned earlier, 3 oz (85 g) tempura chicken has a calorie count of 160. However, this may vary depending on the type and quantity of batter used to cook the chicken. A heavier batter will increase the calorie count while a lighter batter may lower it. It's important to note that tempura chicken should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for individuals who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
What are the Health Benefits of Tempura Chicken?
Tempura chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles in the body. It also contains essential amino acids that help promote healthy growth and development. The dish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthier protein option for individuals who are watching their cholesterol levels. Additionally, the egg and flour batter used to coat the chicken provides a source of carbohydrates, which are essential for providing energy to the body. The vegetables that usually accompany tempura chicken also provide a source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that contribute to overall health.
How much Protein is in Tempura Chicken?
According to the USDA, 3 oz (85 g) of tempura chicken contains approximately 14 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of protein for individuals trying to build muscle or maintain a healthy diet. Protein is essential for the body as it not only helps build and repair muscles but also serves as a source of energy when carbohydrates are not available.
What are the Ingredients in Tempura Chicken?
The main ingredients in tempura chicken are chicken, egg, flour, cornstarch, and cold water. Some recipes may also include soy sauce, ginger, or garlic powder to enhance flavor. The batter is made by mixing the egg, flour, cornstarch, and cold water together until a smooth paste is formed. The chicken is then dipped in the batter and deep-fried in a pan or deep fryer until crispy and golden brown.
Is Tempura Chicken a Healthy Choice?
Tempura chicken can be a healthy choice if prepared using a light batter and consumed in moderation. It's a good source of protein and contains essential amino acids, which are important for the growth and overall health of the body. However, tempura chicken is often deep-fried, which increases its calorie count and fat content. Consuming large amounts of fried foods can lead to weight gain and a higher risk of health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
What are the Side Effects of Tempura Chicken?
Tempura chicken doesn't have any side effects per se, but consuming large amounts of fried foods can lead to weight gain and health issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Individuals who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance may want to avoid tempura chicken as it contains flour, which is a source of gluten. Additionally, individuals who are allergic to eggs or chicken should avoid this dish or prepare it using alternative ingredients.
How to Make Tempura Chicken at Home?
To make tempura chicken at home, you'll need chicken breast or thigh fillets, egg, flour, cornstarch, cold water, soy sauce, and oil for deep-frying. Here's how to prepare tempura chicken: 1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside. 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg, flour, cornstarch, cold water, and soy sauce until a smooth batter is formed. Dip each chicken piece into the batter and coat it evenly.
What are the Best Ways to Serve Tempura Chicken?
Tempura chicken can be served as a main dish with rice and vegetables or as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular dipping sauces include soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or spicy mayo. For a healthier option, you can serve tempura chicken with steamed vegetables or a side salad instead of rice. You can also swap the chicken for tofu or vegetables such as sweet potato, pumpkin, or eggplant to make a vegetarian or vegan version of the dish.
Where to Buy Tempura Chicken?
Tempura chicken can be found in Asian grocery stores and restaurants that specialize in Japanese cuisine. Some popular chain restaurants such as Panda Express and KFC also offer tempura chicken on their menu. If you prefer to cook at home, you can find pre-packaged tempura chicken at your local supermarket or purchase the ingredients needed to prepare the dish from an Asian grocery store.
Tempura chicken is a delicious and healthy protein option that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs about Tempura Chicken
1. What is tempura chicken?
Tempura chicken is a Japanese dish made from chicken that is battered and deep-fried in hot oil.
2. How many calories are in tempura chicken?
A 3 oz (85 g) serving of tempura chicken contains approximately 160 calories.
3. Is tempura chicken healthy?
Tempura chicken is not considered a healthy food as it is deep-fried and high in calories, fat, and sodium.
4. What are some alternatives to tempura chicken?
Some healthier alternatives to tempura chicken include grilled chicken, baked chicken, or chicken stir-fry.
5. Can tempura chicken be reheated?
While tempura chicken can be reheated, it is not recommended as it may become soggy and lose its crispy texture.