How Many Calories in Sesame Chicken?

Sesame chicken is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. This dish is typically made with chicken that is battered and deep-fried, then covered in a sweet and savory sauce made from sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and other ingredients. The dish is often served over rice and accompanied by vegetables such as broccoli or carrots. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calorie content of sesame chicken, what it consists of, and the potential health benefits or drawbacks of consuming this dish.

The calorie content of sesame chicken can vary greatly depending on the preparation method and the ingredients used. On average, a serving of sesame chicken that is 4 ounces in size contains between 300 to 500 calories. This calorie count is based on the chicken being battered and deep-fried, which adds a significant amount of calories to the dish. The sauce used for sesame chicken is also quite high in calories, with a tablespoon of sesame oil containing 120 calories, and a tablespoon of soy sauce containing 10 calories.

In terms of macronutrients, sesame chicken is a good source of protein, with a 4-ounce serving providing approximately 15 to 20 grams of protein. It is also a source of carbohydrates, with most of the calories coming from the sugar and cornstarch used in the sauce. The dish is relatively low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the oil used for frying.

The majority of the calories in sesame chicken come from the batter and the cooking oil. The batter is typically made with flour, egg, and water, and it adds significant amounts of carbohydrates and fat to the dish. The deep-frying process also adds a significant amount of fat to the dish, as the chicken pieces are cooked in large amounts of oil.

In addition to the batter and cooking oil, the sauce also contributes to the calorie count of sesame chicken. The sauce is made with soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil, and it adds a significant amount of carbohydrates, sodium, and fat to the dish. The sesame oil used in the sauce is high in fat and calories, as it is an oil that is made from sesame seeds.

To reduce the calorie count of sesame chicken, it is possible to make a few modifications to the ingredients and preparation method used. For example, using a lighter batter made with cornstarch instead of flour can reduce the amount of carbohydrates and fat in the dish. Baking the chicken instead of deep-frying it can also significantly reduce the amount of fat in the dish.

Sesame chicken is often served with rice, which is a high-carbohydrate food. A cup of cooked white rice contains approximately 200 calories, so adding rice to your meal can significantly increase the calorie count of your meal. If you are looking to reduce the calorie content of your sesame chicken dish, consider using brown rice instead of white rice, or using a smaller portion of rice.

In terms of potential health benefits, sesame oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Additionally, the protein content of sesame chicken can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy foods later in the day.

However, consuming sesame chicken regularly can also have some drawbacks. As mentioned, the dish is high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, the deep-frying process used to prepare sesame chicken can lead to the formation of harmful compounds, such as acrylamides, which have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

In conclusion, sesame chicken can be a tasty and satisfying meal, but it is important to consider the calorie content and potential health effects when consuming this dish. To reduce the calorie content of your meal, consider using brown rice instead of white rice, or using a smaller portion of rice. Additionally, try to limit your consumption of deep-fried foods, and opt for grilled or baked chicken instead. By making these small changes, you can enjoy the flavors of sesame chicken while also supporting your health and well-being.