P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken Price: $20.00 | Calories: 1100 Cal
P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken isn’t just an entrée; it’s a benchmark for a classic American-Chinese dish. Promising a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy, it has a loyal following. But with a premium price tag and indulgent nutrition profile, is it the right choice for your next meal?
The Sesame Chicken entrée at P.F. Chang’s is a true classic that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Featuring crispy pieces of chicken wok-tossed in a sesame soy glaze and topped with toasted sesame seeds, this dish has become a customer favorite for those who love a flavorful Asian-inspired meal. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or ordering delivery, Sesame Chicken offers a bold taste experience that pairs well with many of P.F. Chang’s signature sides.
Credits: @spfoodchronicles
The Cost Analysis: Is It Worth $20?
At $20 for the entrée alone (sides are extra), this is a premium casual dining price. The value depends on your perspective:
The Case Against Value: For $20, the high sodium and sugar content can be a detractor. If you’re on a budget, you can find similar-style dishes for less elsewhere, though likely with lower-quality ingredients. entrées on the menu, ideal for when you want a hearty, flavor-packed meal.
The Case For Value: The portion is generous, and the 56g of protein is significant. The quality of ingredients and execution is generally higher than your average takeout spot. If you’re treating yourself, the cost aligns with the experience.
You’re paying for the P.F. Chang’s brand, consistent execution, and a dining experience. It’s a “worth it” occasional splurge, not an everyday value meal.
Ingredients in Sesame Chicken
P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken is prepared using a blend of high-quality ingredients, carefully crafted to highlight both texture and taste.
- Crispy battered chicken breast pieces
- Sesame soy glaze (with hints of garlic, ginger, and soy)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Green onions
- Light wok oil for frying
This simple yet flavorful combination highlights the rich umami flavors that P.F. Chang’s is known for.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1100 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 49 g | 63% |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg | 40% |
| Sodium | 1940 mg | 84% |
| Carbohydrates | 98 g | 36% |
| Sugars | 44 g | – |
| Protein | 56 g | – |
Values are approximate and based on standard entrée size.
Allergen Information
- Gluten: NOT Gluten-Free. The batter contains wheat, and the sauce almost certainly uses soy sauce made from wheat.
- Soy: CONTAINS Soy. It’s a primary component of the glaze.
- Egg: CONTAINS Egg. Likely used in the batter for the chicken.
- Cross-Contact: The warning about Sesame, Peanut, and Tree Nuts is serious. P.F. Chang’s uses shared woks and kitchen equipment. If you have a severe allergy, you must speak with a manager. The risk cannot be eliminated.
Better Gluten-Free Choice: Try the Mongolian Beef or Singapore Street Noodles from their dedicated gluten-free menu.
What are you actually going to taste?
The Sauce (The Star): The “sesame soy glaze” is where the magic happens. It’s not a cloying, one-dimensional sweetness. You get a initial hit of honey-like sweetness that quickly mellows into a robust, umami-rich savoriness from the soy. Undertones of garlic and ginger provide a subtle warmth that prevents the sauce from being flat. The “nutty” flavor is more aromatic from the toasted sesame seeds than a dominant taste.
The Texture: This is where P.F. Chang’s execution shines. The chicken breast pieces maintain a remarkably crispy batter even after being tossed in sauce—a sign of good wok technique. Inside, the chicken is consistently juicy and tender. The final layer is the delightful nutty crunch from the toasted sesame seeds and the fresh, mild bite from the green onions.
This is an unapologetically indulgent and well-executed dish. It’s for those who love a rich, saucy, and satisfying meal.u might also like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Orange Chicken, which has a tangier, zestier profile.
Smart ordering Hacks for a Healthier, Better Meal
You don’t have to accept the dish as-is. Here are expert tips to tailor it to your needs:
- Tame the Sodium & Sugar: This is the #1 tip. Ask for the sauce on the side. This single move gives you complete control and can easily slash hundreds of calories and grams of sugar and sodium.
- Balance Your Plate Immediately: Pair it with steamed brown rice (for fiber) and a plain steamed vegetable side like broccoli or spinach. This adds volume and nutrients without compounding the saltiness.
- Embrace Family-Style Dining: The entrée is perfectly designed for sharing. Split it with a friend and order another, lighter dish like Buddha’s Feast to create a more balanced and varied meal.
- Box Half Immediately: If dining solo, ask for a box as soon as your meal arrives and pack half away. You get two meals for the price of one and automatically halve the nutritional impact.
FAQs: P.F. Chang’s Sesame Chicken
Is Sesame Chicken available for lunch or dinner?
Yes, Sesame Chicken is offered as part of both the lunch and dinner menu at most P.F. Chang’s locations.
Can I order Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
Currently, Sesame Chicken is not available as a gluten-free entrée because of the wheat in the batter and sauce. Guests can try the Mongolian Beef Bowl or Buddha’s Feast for gluten-free options.
Does Sesame Chicken come in a family-style option?
Yes, it can be ordered as part of a family-style meal where entrées are shared, making it perfect for group dining.
Is Sesame Chicken very sweet?
The dish has a balanced flavor—sweet from the glaze, savory from the soy and garlic, and nutty from sesame seeds.
Conclusion
The Sesame Chicken entrée at P.F. Chang’s is a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying choice for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine. With its blend of sweet sesame glaze and crunchy texture, it has remained a staple on the menu for years. At 1100 calories, it’s a more indulgent option, but when paired smartly with lighter sides, it can fit into a balanced meal. If you’re exploring the chicken options, you may also want to check out Teriyaki Chicken or Sweet and Sour Chicken for other popular choices.
