Drake's Teriyaki Chicken Bowl: A Comprehensive Nutritional Analysis
For those monitoring their intake, understanding the nutritional composition of restaurant meals is essential. Drake's Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is a hearty and flavorful offering, but its robust nature comes with a substantial calorie count. According to Drake's official nutrition information and independent trackers, one serving contains 1240 calories. This detailed analysis will break down the macronutrients and other key nutritional facts, helping you understand what this meal means for your daily diet.
The Full Macronutrient Breakdown
Beyond just the total calories, it's the breakdown of macronutrients—carbohydrates, fats, and protein—that provides a clearer picture of a meal's impact. The teriyaki chicken bowl at Drake's has a macronutrient distribution of 56% carbohydrates, 29% fat, and 15% protein.
Here is a complete list of the bowl's nutritional details per serving:
- Calories: 1240
- Total Fat: 39g (50% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 10g (50% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 200mg (67% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 3760mg (163% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 169g (61% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 10g (36% Daily Value)
- Total Sugars: 33g
- Protein: 46g
The Contributing Ingredients
The high-calorie count and other notable nutritional values are the result of the bowl's ingredients and preparation method. The meal is described as featuring teriyaki chicken, sushi rice, fried asparagus, cucumber, carrot, avocado, sushi sauce, and sriracha. The components that significantly contribute to the calorie and sodium load include:
- Sushi Rice: A large portion of rice forms the base, which is a key source of carbohydrates. Its preparation often involves extra sugar and vinegar, adding to the total.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Restaurant-style teriyaki sauces are frequently high in both sugar and sodium to achieve their distinctive sweet and savory flavor profile. The 33g of sugar and a portion of the high sodium content likely come from this sauce.
- Fried Asparagus: Frying vegetables adds significant calories and fat that would not be present in a steamed or grilled preparation.
- Sushi Sauce and Sriracha: These toppings also contain added sugar and sodium, further boosting the meal's overall numbers.
Comparison with Other Drake's Menu Items
To put the Teriyaki Chicken Bowl's nutrition into perspective, consider how it stacks up against other options on the Drake's menu. This comparison can help you make a more balanced choice, depending on your dietary goals.
| Menu Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teriyaki Chicken Bowl | 1240 | 46 | 39 | 3760 |
| Seared Salmon | 370 | ~35 | ~14 | ~1000 |
| Griddle-Seared Chicken | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Note: Nutritional values for some items may vary or require accessing the official website. The Seared Salmon information is sourced from Nutritionix.
Healthier Eating at Drake's
If you love the teriyaki flavor but are aiming for a lighter meal, there are ways to enjoy a version of it or find alternatives:
- Share the Bowl: The large portion size makes it ideal for splitting with a friend or saving half for a second meal. This instantly cuts the calorie and sodium intake in half.
- Request Less Sauce: The sauces are a major source of sugar and sodium. Ask for less teriyaki and sushi sauce, or request it on the side so you can control the amount you use.
- Choose the Seared Options: Drake's offers a seared salmon and griddle-seared chicken, which are significantly lower in calories and fat than the teriyaki bowl. These are excellent alternatives for a lighter, protein-packed meal.
- Modify the Bowl: If possible, ask if you can substitute the fried asparagus for a healthier steamed vegetable option.
Conclusion
The Teriyaki Chicken Bowl at Drake's is a flavorful and filling meal that comes with a high calorie, carbohydrate, and sodium footprint. While not an ideal choice for those on a restrictive diet, understanding its nutritional profile allows you to make an informed decision. Enjoying it as an occasional treat or modifying the portion and sauce can help you indulge without derailing your health goals. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive nutrition information directly from the source, it is always best to visit the official website: Drake's Official Nutrition Information.
