Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry dish from Panda Express that combines tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant vegetables in a bold, savory sauce. The dish is popular for its combination of heat, sweetness, and savory flavors, making it a go-to option for those who enjoy a little spice with their meal.
Calories
A typical serving of Kung Pao Chicken (about 5 oz or 140 grams) at Panda Express contains 290 calories. This calorie count is for the entree portion of the dish (without any sides).
Ingredients
The ingredients in Kung Pao Chicken typically include:
- Chicken: Diced boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, stir-fried to a tender texture.
- Peanuts: Roasted peanuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Vegetables: Typically includes bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, adding freshness and color to the dish.
- Kung Pao Sauce: A savory, slightly sweet, and spicy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, and sometimes chili paste or dried red chili peppers for heat.
- Seasonings: Often includes ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to round out the flavors.
Estimated Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition for Kung Pao Chicken (about 5 oz or 140 grams):
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 17g
- Vitamin A: 6%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 8%
Allergens
Kung Pao Chicken contains the following potential allergens:
- Soy (present in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce)
- Peanuts (a main ingredient)
- Wheat (in soy sauce and hoisin sauce)
- Sesame (may be present in the sauce or oil)
- Gluten (from soy sauce)
As with any dish, it’s important to check with Panda Express if you have specific food allergies, as cross-contamination can occur in the kitchen.
Recommendation
- Pair with Vegetables: Since Kung Pao Chicken already has vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, you can enhance the dish by adding more veggies with a side of Super Greens or Mixed Veggies for extra nutrients.
- Consider the Spice Level: Kung Pao Chicken tends to be on the spicier side. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can ask for the chili peppers to be removed or have the sauce served on the side.
- Sodium Considerations: Kung Pao Chicken is relatively high in sodium. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you might want to opt for a lighter dish or ask for the sauce to be served on the side to control sodium intake.
- For a Balanced Meal: Pair the dish with Brown Rice or Chow Mein if you’re looking for a more filling meal. For those watching carbs, Super Greens is a great lower-carb option.
Kung Pao Chicken is a delicious and satisfying choice for those looking for a flavorful and protein-rich dish. It’s a great balance of heat, savory, and sweet with a crunchy texture from the peanuts, making it a popular option at Panda Express.
Please Note: Prices may vary by location, size, and local pricing policies. Generally, you can expect it for a standard size. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to check the Panda Express Mobile App or visit a local store.
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