Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken (larger pieces) is a beloved street food staple, featuring bite-sized chunks of chicken marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and five-spice powder, then deep-fried to a golden crisp. The dish is typically dusted with a generous amount of white pepper and salt, and often garnished with fried basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in fat and protein due to the deep-frying process and the chicken itself, making it a calorie-dense option, often ranging from 400-600 calories per serving depending on portion size. It provides a good source of protein and iron, though it is typically high in sodium and saturated fats.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Phosphorus | 210 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.5 mcg |
| Selenium | 18 mcg |
Per 1 serving (about 170 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The signature use of fried basil leaves (often Thai basil) is a unique cultural touch that adds a distinct, peppery aroma not commonly found in Western fried chicken. Nutritionally, the inclusion of white pepper and five-spice powder not only enhances flavor but also offers traditional digestive benefits in Taiwanese culinary culture.
