Oyster Sauce Chicken

Oyster Sauce Chicken is a classic Cantonese stir-fry dish where tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet sauce made primarily from oyster extract. It typically features chicken, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and sometimes ginger or sugar, and is a staple in Chinese home cooking and restaurants worldwide.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a good source of protein from the chicken, with moderate fat content depending on the cut used and cooking oil. A typical serving (about 1 cup) provides roughly 300-400 calories, with key nutrients including protein, iron, and B vitamins, though it can be high in sodium from the sauces.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	380 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	6 g
Sodium	890 mg
Iron	2.1 mg
Potassium	410 mg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Vitamin B12	0.4 mcg
Niacin (B3)	7.8 mg
Phosphorus	220 mg
Selenium	24 mcg
Zinc	2.0 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The sauce's unique umami depth comes from oyster extract, which has been used in Chinese cuisine since the late 19th century as a way to preserve and enhance flavors. Nutritionally, the oyster sauce adds minerals like zinc and B12, making this a flavorful way to boost the nutritional profile of a simple chicken dish.