Pf Chang’s Sesame Chicken Bowl Price: $15.00 | Calories: 850 Cal
If you’re craving a reliable, flavorful meal that delivers on both taste and satisfaction, P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken Bowl often tops the list. Is it worth the price and the calories?Â
The Sesame Chicken Bowl is one of the most iconic dishes on the Pf Chang’s menu. Crispy chicken is wok-tossed in a rich sesame sauce with hints of soy, garlic, and ginger, then sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor. Served with rice or noodles, this bowl delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes in every bite. Before ordering this you can try various soups as well.
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Detailed Price, Calories, and Nutritional Breakdown
Before you commit, it’s crucial to understand what you’re consuming from a nutritional standpoint. Here’s the data, along with some expert insight into what these numbers mean for you.
- Price: $15.00
- Calories: 850 Cal
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 850 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 35 g | 45% |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 1,580 mg | 69% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 92 g | 34% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g | 14% |
| Total Sugars | 38 g | – |
| Protein | 39 g | – |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 80 mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 640 mg | 14% |
(Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values may vary by location and preparation.)
The Health Highlights & Concerns:
- The Protein Powerhouse: With 39 grams of protein, this bowl is excellent for keeping you full and satisfied for hours, aiding in muscle maintenance and repair.
- The Sodium Shock: The most significant red flag is the 1,580 mg of sodium. This is 69% of your recommended daily intake in a single meal. If you have blood pressure concerns, this is a critical factor to consider.
- Sugar Content: At 38 grams of sugar, nearly the entire sauce profile is built on sweetness. This is equivalent to about 9.5 teaspoons of sugar.
Ingredients in Sesame Chicken Bowl
- Crispy chicken breast pieces
- Sesame sauce (soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, rice vinegar)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Green onions
- Steamed rice or noodles
Allergen Information
- Contains:Â Wheat, Soy, Sesame
- May Contain:Â Egg
- Gluten Warning: Due to the soy sauce (which contains wheat) and potential cross-contact in the wok, this dish is not suitable for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.
Taste & Texture: What to Expect
- Flavor: Sweet and savory with nutty sesame undertones
- Texture: Crispy chicken coated in a sticky sesame glaze, balanced with soft rice
- Best Pairings: Fried Rice, Lo Mein, or Crispy Spring Rolls
Smarter Ordering Tips
The great thing about P.F. Chang’s is their flexibility. You can easily tailor this dish to fit your dietary needs.
- Request “Light Sauce”:Â This is the single most effective way to significantly reduce the sugar and sodium content. Ask for the sauce on the side for even more control.
- Swap Your Base: Opt for brown rice instead of white for an extra 3-4 grams of fiber, which helps with digestion and blood sugar control.
- Add Vegetables:Â Boost the nutritional profile by adding a side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus. This adds volume, fiber, and vitamins without a major calorie increase.
- Consider a Side Salad:Â Starting with a light, non-fried appetizer like the Asian Caesar or House Salad (dressing on the side) can help you fill up on greens before diving into the richer main course.
Is It Worth It?
The P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken Bowl is a solid, crowd-pleasing choice that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. It’s a hearty, protein-rich meal perfect for a filling dinner.
You should order it if:
- You’re craving a reliable, sweet-and-savory Chinese-inspired dish.
- You need a high-protein meal to keep you full.
- You’re willing to use most of your day’s sodium and sugar allowance in one sitting.
You should reconsider or customize it if:
- You are on a low-sodium or low-sugar diet.
- You have gluten or soy allergies.
- You prefer more vegetables or lighter meals.
Ultimately, by using the customization tips above, you can enjoy this iconic dish while aligning it better with your health goals. If you enjoy this bowl but want to try something different next time, the Teriyaki Salmon offers a lighter option, while the Mongolian Beef provides a more savory, less sweet alternative.
FAQs: Pf Chang’s Sesame Chicken Bowl
Is the Sesame Chicken Bowl overly sweet?
It leans sweet, but it’s balanced by the savory notes of soy and the nuttiness of sesame. If you prefer savory dishes, asking for light sauce is highly recommended.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Unfortunately, no. The sesame sauce is made with wheat-based soy sauce, and the risk of cross-contact in the kitchen is high. P.F. Chang’s has a dedicated gluten-free menu, but this particular dish is not on it.
How does the portion size compare to the lunch portion?
The bowl is a standard dinner-sized portion. P.F. Chang’s used to offer a separate, smaller lunch menu, but many locations have moved to a single menu. The bowl is quite filling for one person, and you might even have leftovers.
Is this dish available for delivery?
Yes, it can be ordered online through Pf Chang’s or delivery apps.
Conclusion
The Pf Chang’s Sesame Chicken Bowl is a bold and satisfying choice for those who enjoy the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. With 850 calories and 39 grams of protein, it is a hearty option that works well for either lunch or dinner. While the sodium and sugar content are on the higher side, you can balance the meal with steamed vegetables or lighter sides. For fans of sesame flavors, this chicken bowl is one of the best options on the Pf Chang’s menu.
If you enjoy the Sesame Chicken Bowl, you may also like the Teriyaki Chicken Bowl or Orange Chicken Bowl for a savory, umami-packed flavor.
