Orange chicken, a popular dish often found in American Chinese cuisine, is known for its sweet and tangy flavor. This article delves into the nutritional composition of orange chicken, providing a detailed breakdown of its calorie content, macronutrient distribution, and key vitamins and minerals. Understanding the nutritional profile of orange chicken can help individuals make informed dietary choices.
Calorie and Macronutrient Content
A 4 oz serving (114g) of Far East Cuisine orange chicken contains 210 calories. The distribution of macronutrients in this serving is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 13g (26% of total calories)
- Fats: 10g (45% of total calories)
- Saturated fats: 1g (7% Daily Value)
- Trans fats: 0g
- Protein: 14g (28% of total calories, 25% of Daily Value)
Vitamins and Minerals
Orange chicken provides several essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall nutritional intake. A 4 oz serving contains:
- Calcium: 30mg (3% Daily Value)
- Iron: 1mg (10% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
- Vitamin D: 0μg (0% Daily Value)
Additional Nutritional Information
A larger serving of orange chicken (252g) contains 660 calories. This serving comprises 32g of fat, 36g of protein, and 57g of carbohydrates, with 34g of sugar and 2g of dietary fiber. It also includes 6.1g of saturated fat and 154mg of cholesterol.
Furthermore, a 252g serving of orange chicken provides:
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- Vitamin A: 189.00 mcg
- Vitamin C: 2.3 mg
- Vitamin D: 0.25 mcg
- Iron: 2.37 mg
- Calcium: 35.28 mg
- Potassium: 527 mg
Considerations for a Balanced Diet
While orange chicken can be a source of protein and certain vitamins and minerals, it's important to consider its fat and sugar content within the context of a balanced diet. The dish falls under the 'Stir-fry and soy-based sauce mixtures' food category.
Fats
The saturated fat content in orange chicken can contribute to increased total cholesterol and LDL levels, potentially raising the risk of atherosclerosis.
Sodium
A 4 oz serving contains 420mg of sodium, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Monitoring sodium intake is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Related Foods
Orange chicken is often compared to other similar dishes in American Chinese cuisine, including:
- Sesame chicken
- Almond chicken
- General Tso chicken
- Kung pao chicken
- Chicken egg foo yung
- Sweet and sour chicken or turkey
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