P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice Price: $15.95 | Calories: 1170 Cal
P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice is one of the most versatile and comforting options on the menu. This signature rice dish features wok-tossed rice with egg, carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, and savory soy sauce. Guests can enjoy it as a hearty vegetarian option or customize it with added proteins like Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, or Tofu for a complete meal.
With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice is a perfect choice whether you want it as a side to pair with entrées like Mongolian Beef or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
What Makes This Fried Rice Different?
P.F. Chang’s isn’t serving your average takeout fried rice. Here’s what sets it apart:
The Wok Magic
The secret lies in their high-heat wok cooking technique. This creates that signature smoky flavor chefs call “wok hei” – something hard to replicate at home. Each grain of rice gets perfectly seared while staying separate, not clumpy.
Quality Ingredients
Unlike many chain restaurants, P.F. Chang’s uses:
- Fresh vegetables that keep their crunch
- Quality soy sauce for depth of flavor
- Properly cooked eggs that ribbon through the rice
Customization Options
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all dish. You can add:
Tofu ($3 extra)
Chicken ($4 extra)
Shrimp ($5 extra)
Beef ($5 extra)
How to Get the Most Value
As a Main Dish:
Add two proteins to make it a complete meal. The shrimp and chicken combination is particularly good.
As a Side Dish:
Split one order between 2-3 people. It pairs beautifully with:
Buddha’s Feast
Mongolian Beef
Kung Pao Chicken
Nutrition Facts (per serving, without added protein)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1170 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 43 g | 55% |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 250 mg | 83% |
| Sodium | 2110 mg | 92% |
| Carbohydrates | 149 g | 54% |
| Sugars | 10 g | – |
| Protein | 40 g | 80% |
Values are approximate and may vary depending on added protein.
llergens & Dietary Restrictions: Not for the Sensitive
This dish is built on common allergens, making customization essential for some.
- Contains: Egg, Soy, Wheat. The core trifecta of allergens is present and cannot be removed from the base recipe.
- Gluten-Free? No, not standard. The soy sauce is wheat-based. However, P.F. Chang’s is known for its gluten-free menu. Always ask if they can prepare it with gluten-free tamari.
- Vegetarian? Yes, the base is vegetarian (though it contains egg). For a vegan version, you would need to request no egg.
For guests with dietary needs, always confirm allergen information directly with P.F. Chang’s staff.
The Flavor & Texture Breakdown: Savory Satisfaction
Let’s start with the good news. P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice is undeniably tasty and executed with more finesse than your typical takeout.
- The Wok Hei (Breath of the Wok): The first thing you’ll notice is the smoky, slightly charred aroma that signifies a proper high-heat stir-fry. This isn’t steamed rice with mix-ins; it has that authentic, savory sear that is hard to replicate at home.
- The Flavor Base: The savory soy sauce is the star, complemented by the aromatic punch of garlic and ginger. The egg distributes throughout, adding richness and body.
- The Textural Contrast: The soft, individual grains of rice are punctuated by the crunch of bean sprouts and the mild bite of green onions. It’s a well-considered texture profile that keeps each mouthful interesting.
The Art of Customization: How to Build a Better Bowl
The true value of this dish lies in its flexibility. Here’s how to order it smarter:
- Share it, Don’t Solo it: This is the #1 rule. The portion is enormous. Treat it as a shared side for the table alongside lighter dishes like Steamed Buddha’s Feast or a lean protein.
- Choose Your Protein Wisely:
- Tofu: The best choice for keeping it vegetarian and adding a lean protein without extra saturated fat.
- Shrimp: A lighter option that adds protein without drastically altering the calorie count.
- Chicken or Beef: Classic additions, but they will increase the calorie and fat content further.
- Boost the Veggies: Don’t be shy to ask for extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or even broccoli. This adds fiber, nutrients, and volume, helping to balance the carb-heavy rice.
- Control the Sauce: If you’re sensitive to salt, you can request “light sauce” or sauce on the side. This is the most effective way to reduce the sodium content.
FAQs: P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice
Can I customize Fried Rice with protein?
Is Fried Rice vegetarian?
The base version can be vegetarian, but it contains egg. For vegan, request without egg and pair with plant-based proteins like Tofu.
Is Fried Rice gluten-free?
No, because the soy sauce contains wheat. Guests may request gluten-free soy sauce at select locations.
Is it a side or an entrée?
It works both ways—either as a shareable side dish or as a satisfying entrée when ordered with added protein.
Conclusion
P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice is a flavorful and versatile option priced at $15.95 with 1170 calories per serving. Whether you enjoy it as a vegetarian dish or upgrade it with Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, or Tofu, this wok-tossed favorite delivers both comfort and taste.
Perfect as a side to entrées like Mongolian Beef or Kung Pao Chicken, or as a standalone meal paired with Buddha’s Feast, P.F. Chang’s Fried Rice remains one of the most customizable and satisfying rice dishes on the menu.
