How Many Calories in Mongolian Chicken? Go To Instructions

How many calories in Mongolian chicken? This common question needs more technical consideration. Chicken is the best source of protein, but how does consuming chicken daily affect your health? Chinese Express will help you know how many calories are in Mongolian chicken.

What is Mongolian Chicken?

Mongolian chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish originating from Chinese Taiwan. It typically consists of thinly-sliced chicken breast, stir-fried with green onions, garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce. The name Mongolian Chicken started from there, and this dish is loved by many people because of its taste.

How many calories in Mongolian Chicken

The calorie count of Mongolian chicken can vary by several factors, such as portion size, ingredients used, and cooking method. However, on average, a serving size of 1 cup of Mongolian chicken contains around 340-400 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the restaurant or takeout place you order from.

Another thing is that Mongolian Chicken is often deep fried before stir-frying with other ingredients, which will add calories to the dish. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for grilled or baked Mongolian chicken, which is a healthier alternative.

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How to Make Healthier Choices While Eating Mongolian Chicken?

If you're someone who enjoys Mongolian chicken but is conscious of their calorie intake, here are some tips that can help you make healthier choices while eating this hearty dish:

• Choose grilled or fried Mongolian chicken: As mentioned earlier, deep-frying Mongolian chicken adds more calories to the dish. Therefore, it is best to opt for grilled or baked Mongolian chicken, which is lower in calories and fat.

• Watch Your Portion Size: It's easy to get carried away while enjoying Mongolian chicken, but it's essential to watch your portion size. Limit your serving size to 1 cup or less and pair it with a side of steamed veggies or brown rice to make it a more balanced meal.

• Go Easy on the Sauce: Mongolian chicken is often served with hoisin sauce, which can be high in sugar and calories. Therefore, it is recommended to go easy on the sauce or ask for a lighter version of the sauce.

• Customize Your Order: Many restaurants allow you to customize your Mongolian chicken order by substituting certain ingredients or opting for a different cooking method. You can ask for extra vegetables, skip the deep-frying, or request a grilled version of Mongolian chicken.

• Make it at Home: Making Mongolian chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients and cooking methods used, making it a healthier option. Some ingredients that can be used include lean chicken breast, soy sauce and various vegetables to create an irresistible Mongolian chicken dish.

Examples of Mongolian Chicken Calorie Count

Here are some examples of Mongolian chicken calorie count from popular restaurant chains:

• PF Chang's Mongolian Chicken: 710 calories per serving (1 cup)
• Panda Express Mongolian Chicken: 420 calories per serving (1 cup)
• Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken: 530 calories per serving (1 cup)

It's essential to note that the calorie count may vary based on the ingredients and cooking methods used by each restaurant.

Comparisons of Mongolian Chicken with Other Chinese Dishes

Here's a quick comparison between Mongolian chicken and these popular dishes:

• General Tso's Chicken: General Tso's chicken is similar to Mongolian chicken in terms of calorie count, with an average serving size containing around 350-450 calories. However, General Tso's chicken is often deep-fried and served with a sweet and spicy sauce, which adds more calories and sugar to the dish.
• Kung Pao Chicken: Kung Pao chicken is another popular Chinese-American dish that contains diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. A serving size of 1 cup of Kung Pao chicken typically contains around 300-350 calories.
• Orange Chicken: Orange chicken is a delicious dish consisting of chicken pieces breaded and fried, especially sprinkled with fresh, fragrant orange juice. A 1-cup serving of orange chicken typically contains about 500-600 calories, making it higher in calories than Mongolian chicken.

FAQs about Mongolian Chicken

Q1. Is Mongolian chicken healthy?

A1. Mongolian chicken can be a healthy option if made with lean chicken breast, plenty of veggies, and low-sodium ingredients. It's essential to watch your portion size and limit the amount of sauce used to keep the calorie count in check.

Q2. Is Mongolian chicken gluten-free?

A2. It depends on the ingredients used by the restaurant or the recipe you follow. While Mongolian chicken typically contains soy sauce, which may have gluten, you can opt for a gluten-free version by using tamari sauce or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Q3. Can I make Mongolian chicken vegetarian?

A3. Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Mongolian chicken by substituting the chicken with tofu or other plant-based protein sources. You can also use plenty of veggies such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli to add flavor and texture.

Q4. How can I reduce the calorie count of Mongolian chicken?

A4. You can reduce the calorie count of Mongolian chicken by opting for grilled or baked versions instead of deep-fried ones. Additionally, you can ask for extra veggies and go easy on the sauce to keep the calorie count in check.

Q5. Can I freeze Mongolian chicken?

A5. Yes, you can freeze Mongolian chicken by storing it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. However, it's recommended to consume it within 1-2 months for the best taste and quality.

Read more: How Many Calories in Stir Fry Beef Strips

Conclusion

In concluding our exploration of How many calories in Mongolian chicken, we've discovered that Chinese cuisine, with its wide range of dishes, caters to both the palate and the nutritional awareness of diners. Chinese Express Restaurant, with its commitment to delivering flavorful yet balanced options, represents the fusion of taste and health in Chinese culinary artistry. Whether you indulge in Mongolian chicken for its delicious taste or its nutritional value, remember that the dining experience embodies the rich tapestry of cultural flavors and the joy of savoring dishes that delight both the senses and the body.