P.F. Chang’s Teriyaki Chicken Entree Price: $23.00 | Calories: 570 Cal
In a sea of crispy, fried, and sauced-heavy dishes, P.F. Chang’s Teriyaki Chicken stands out as a beacon for health-conscious diners. It promises grilled perfection, fresh vegetables, and a “lighter” profile at 570 calories. But with a $23 price tag and a surprisingly high sodium count, does it truly live up to its healthy reputation, or are you paying a premium for a simple meal? We’re breaking down the details to help you decide.
The Teriyaki Chicken Entree at P.F. Chang’s is a flavorful, lighter option that blends tender grilled chicken with a rich teriyaki glaze. Served with fresh vegetables and steamed rice, it’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory. At only 570 calories, this entree is one of the healthier protein choices on the menu, making it a great alternative to heavier dishes like the Sweet and Sour Chicken or Crispy Honey Shrimp.
The Flavor & Texture Experience: Simple & Satisfying
This dish is a study in simplicity done well. It forgoes the complex, multi-layered sauces of other entrees for a straightforward, classic profile.
- The Chicken & Cooking Method: The star here is the grilled chicken breast. It’s consistently well-prepared—juicy, tender, and featuring visible grill marks that impart a subtle smoky flavor. This is a textural breath of fresh air compared to the ubiquitous crispy-battered chicken elsewhere on the menu.
- The Teriyaki Glaze: The glaze is authentically sweet and savory, sticking closely to the classic teriyaki profile. It’s less syrupy and more balanced than many generic versions, with a noticeable soy-based umami backbone. It coats the chicken lightly rather than drowning it.
- The Overall Composition: The inclusion of steamed broccoli and bell peppers is not an afterthought. They provide a necessary fresh crunch and make the meal feel complete and balanced directly from the plate.
It’s a reliably mild, family-friendly dish that excels through quality execution rather than bold innovation.
Ingredients in Teriyaki Chicken Entree
The ingredients used in this dish highlight freshness and flavor while keeping it balanced:
- Grilled chicken breast
- Teriyaki glaze (soy-based with sweet and savory notes)
- Steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or seasonal vegetables
- Steamed rice (white or brown, based on preference)
- Garnish of sesame seeds and scallions
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
This is a high-protein, low-fat meal with a hidden sodium and sugar problem. It’s “healthier” relative to the menu, but not an inherently “health food.”
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 570 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 17g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 110mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 1650mg | 72% |
| Carbohydrates | 42g | 15% |
| Sugars | 18g | – |
| Protein | 46g | 92% |
The protein content in this entree is excellent, making it ideal for guests looking for a filling yet moderate-calorie meal. Compared to options like the Orange Chicken or Pepper Steak, it provides a healthier balance.
Allergen & Dietary Guide: Key Restrictions
- Gluten: NOT Gluten-Free. Traditional teriyaki sauce is made with soy sauce, which contains wheat.
- Soy & Sesame: CONTAINS Soy and Sesame. These are fundamental components of the dish.
- Cross-Contact: As with all items, there is a risk of cross-contact with shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts in the kitchen. Always inform your server of severe allergies.
Top Gluten-Free Alternative: The Miso Glazed Salmon or Buddha’s Feast remain the go-to, flavorful gluten-free choices.
Smart Ordering Hacks: Maximizing Your Meal
To get the most health and value from this dish, employ these simple strategies:
Share an Appetizer: Instead of a second heavy entrée, pair this with a starter like the Chicken Lettuce Wraps (hold the crispy noodles) for a varied and satisfying meal.
Sauce on the Side:Â This is the most powerful hack. The teriyaki glaze is the source of most of the sodium and sugar. Having it on the side allows you to control the amount, dramatically improving the nutritional profile.
Automatically Choose Brown Rice:Â This simple, no-cost swap increases the fiber content, making the meal more filling and nutritionally robust.
Ask for Extra Vegetables:Â Boost the volume, nutrients, and fiber of your meal without significantly increasing calories or cost.
You may order it or skip
- Order it if:Â You want a high-protein, grilled meal, are comfortable with the price, and plan to use the “sauce on the side” hack to manage sodium.
- Skip it if:Â You are on a strict low-sodium diet, are seeking bold and exciting flavors, or are looking for the most budget-friendly option.
- It successfully fills a specific niche on the menu, offering a genuine “lighter” alternative without sacrificing the satisfaction of a complete meal.
FAQs: P.F. Chang’s Teriyaki Chicken
Is the Teriyaki Chicken entree healthy?
Yes, with just 570 calories and 46g of protein, it’s one of the healthier chicken entrees available at P.F. Chang’s. It’s a balanced option compared to higher-calorie items like Sweet and Sour Chicken.
Is the teriyaki sauce sweet?
The teriyaki sauce is mildly sweet with savory undertones, creating a balanced glaze that enhances the chicken without overpowering it.
Does it come with rice?
Yes, it is served with your choice of white or brown steamed rice. Guests can also upgrade to fried rice or lo mein for a heartier meal.
Is the Teriyaki Chicken spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy. It’s mild and family-friendly, perfect for guests who prefer sweet-savory flavors without heat.
How does it compare to Teriyaki Beef?
The Teriyaki Beef Bowl is richer and slightly higher in calories, while the chicken version is leaner with fewer calories. Both share the same teriyaki glaze but differ in protein choice.
Conclusion
The P.F. Chang’s Teriyaki Chicken Entree is a flavorful, healthier choice that blends grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze. At $23.00 and 570 calories, it offers a satisfying balance of taste and nutrition, making it an excellent pick for those who love teriyaki but want a lighter option.
It’s a great alternative to heavier entrees like Crispy Honey Shrimp or Orange Chicken. With its balanced flavor and lower calorie profile, Teriyaki Chicken stands out as a wholesome and delicious entree on the P.F. Chang’s menu.
