Grab a tray and load up on generous portions of familiar, comforting dishes. If you are looking for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you likely want to check the Asian Chao Menu with Prices before you walk in. This guide breaks down the full offerings so you know exactly what to order and what it will cost you.
Asian Chao is known for its fast-casual style, similar to a food court setup. You move down the line, point at what you want, and watch them pile it high. It is simple, filling, and easy on the wallet, which is why it remains a popular stop for lunch breaks and family dinners.
Below, we cover everything from the classic entrees to the sides and combos. We also look at how pricing works so you are not surprised at the register. Let us get straight to the food and the numbers.
Asian Chao Menu With Prices
The menu structure is straightforward, but the combinations can be a bit tricky. You have to choose your base, your main protein, and then decide if you want a side. Prices vary depending on whether you pick a single entree, a double, or a combo plate with extras.
Most locations operate on a per-item basis. You pay for the number of scoops of meat or vegetables you get. The base, like rice or noodles, is usually included in the price of the entree. This makes it easy to mix and match if you are dining with picky eaters.
Keep in mind that prices can shift slightly based on the location, especially if it is inside a mall or a highway rest stop. The figures below reflect the standard average pricing you can expect across most US locations. Always check the overhead board at your specific store for the final say.
Signature Entree Pricing
These are the main dishes that come with your choice of steamed rice, fried rice, or chow mein. The protein is cooked in large woks and kept hot on the buffet line. You get a generous scoop, and the portion is usually enough for two meals for lighter eaters.
- Single Entree Plate: This includes one main dish and your choice of base. It is the most budget-friendly option.
- Double Entree Plate: Pick two different mains to get more variety on your plate. This is the most popular choice.
- Triple Entree Plate: For big appetites, this allows you to sample three different proteins or vegetable dishes.
The price difference between a single and a double is usually around two to three dollars. Adding a third scoop costs a bit less than the second one did. This encourages you to try more flavors without breaking the bank.
Here is a look at the specific items you will see in the warmer. The list includes the fan favorites and the healthier options. We have included the average price range for a single serving.
- Orange Chicken: Sweet, tangy, and slightly crispy. This is the top seller for a reason. Expect to pay between $6.99 and $8.49 for a single plate.
- General Tso’s Chicken: A bit spicier than the orange chicken with a deeper, savory sauce. Similar pricing to the orange chicken.
- Sweet and Sour Chicken: Battered chunks of chicken served with the classic pink sauce on the side. Usually priced around $6.99.
- Teriyaki Chicken: Grilled or griddled chicken with a sweet soy glaze. Often served with a slice of pineapple. Priced slightly lower, around $6.49.
- Beef with Broccoli: Tender slices of beef in a ginger-garlic sauce. A solid choice if you want less sugar. Priced around $7.49.
- Pepper Chicken: Dark meat chicken stir-fried with onions and peppers in a black pepper sauce. A good savory option.
- Mushroom Chicken: Sliced chicken with mushrooms and bamboo shoots in a light sauce.
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce: This is a classic Cantonese dish with a rich, eggy sauce. Expect a higher price, usually around $8.99.
- Fried Shrimp: Lightly breaded and crispy, these are usually sold by the piece or as a side. A plate with these will cost more.
- Vegetable Delight: A mix of broccoli, carrots, cabbage, and snap peas. This is the cheapest option, often around $5.99.
Combo Meals And Plates
If you are hungry, the combo meals are the way to go. These include your main entrees, a side, and sometimes a drink. They are designed to be a full meal in one tray. The pricing here gives you the best value for your money.
The standard combo comes with an appetizer like an egg roll or crab rangoon. You usually get two pieces of the appetizer. Some locations also let you swap the side for a soup if they have it available that day.
Here is the typical breakdown for the combo options. The price jumps are small, but the food volume increases significantly. This is what most regular customers order.
- 2-Item Combo: Includes two entrees, fried or steamed rice, and one egg roll. Average price is $8.99 to $9.99.
- 3-Item Combo: Includes three entrees, rice, and two egg rolls. Average price is $10.49 to $11.49.
- Family Meal: This is a large tray meant for sharing. It usually includes a quart of rice, a pint of two different entrees, and four egg rolls. This runs between $25.00 and $30.00 depending on the proteins chosen.
Do not forget about the sides. You can add a side of plain chow mein or fried rice to any meal for a small upcharge. This is useful if you are sharing or if you want extra carbs to stretch the meal further.
Appetizers And Sides
No meal is complete without a crispy side. Asian Chao keeps it simple with a few standard options. These are perfect for adding to your tray or grabbing as a quick snack if you are not starving.
The appetizers are usually kept under a heat lamp, so they stay crispy. You can order them individually or as part of a combo. The pricing for these items is very competitive with other fast-food chains.
- Chicken Egg Roll: A classic, filled with cabbage and chicken. Priced around $1.79 each.
- Vegetable Spring Roll: A lighter, crispier roll. Usually cheaper, around $1.49 each.
- Crab Rangoon: Cream cheese and imitation crab in a wonton wrapper. Priced around $1.99 for two pieces.
- Fried Wontons: These are often served with sweet and sour sauce. Around $1.29 for four.
- White Rice: A large side order. Around $2.29.
- Fried Rice: Seasoned with soy and egg. Around $2.99 for a large side.
- Chow Mein: Soft noodles with cabbage and carrots. Around $2.99.
You can also ask for extra sauce packets at the counter. The hot mustard and the chili oil are usually available upon request. These are free, so do not be shy about asking for a handful.
Drinks And Desserts
To wash it all down, you have the standard fountain drinks. They offer Coke products at most locations. You can also get bottled water or a sweet tea depending on the region.
Dessert options are limited but satisfying. The most common offering is a simple sugar cookie or a fortune cookie. These are often given free with combo meals, but you can buy them separately if you want more.
- Fountain Drink: Medium or Large. Priced between $1.99 and $2.49.
- Bottled Water: Around $1.99.
- Fortune Cookies: Usually 2 for $0.50 or included with your order.
- Fried Banana: A sweet treat available at some locations. Priced around $1.99.
How To Order Efficiently
To make your visit smooth, follow this simple process. It helps the line move faster and ensures you get exactly what you want. The staff is usually very quick, so be ready to point.
- Choose your size: Decide if you want a single, double, or triple plate before you reach the front.
- Pick your base: Tell them if you want white rice, fried rice, or chow mein. They put this down first.
- Select your protein: Point to the items you want. If you get a double, they will put one scoop of each.
- Add sides: Ask for an egg roll or rangoon at the end of the line if you want a combo.
- Pay and sauce: Grab your sauces at the register or the condiment station.
If you are unsure about the spice level, ask for a sample. They are usually happy to give you a small taste of the General Tso’s or the Kung Pao if they have it. This is better than getting stuck with a dish that is too hot for you.
Value And Portion Sizes
One of the biggest draws is the portion size. The scoops are generous, often heaping. It is not uncommon to leave with a box that is still half full. This makes the price per meal very attractive.
Compared to other fast-casual Chinese spots, Asian Chao is usually on the lower end of the price spectrum. You are getting a lot of food for under ten dollars. This is why it is a staple in food courts across the country.
If you are on a budget, the lunch special is the best bet. Many locations offer a slightly smaller portion for a reduced price between 11 AM and 3 PM. This can save you a couple of dollars. Ask the cashier if they have a lunch menu available.
Nutritional Considerations
Let us be honest, this is not health food. The dishes are high in sodium and sugar. However, you can make better choices if you know what to look for.
The steamed rice and the vegetable delight are the lightest options. The beef and broccoli is also a decent choice compared to the fried chicken dishes. If you are watching your calories, avoid the fried rice and the sweet sauces.
You can ask for the sauce on the side for some dishes. This lets you control how much you eat. The teriyaki chicken is usually a better option than the orange chicken because it is not battered and deep-fried.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the menu and pricing. These should clear up any confusion before you go.
Does Asian Chao have a secret menu?
No, there is no official secret menu. However, you can mix any of the available proteins together. If you want half orange chicken and half mushroom chicken, just ask. They will usually do it if you are getting a double or triple plate.
Are there any gluten-free options?
Most of the sauces contain soy sauce, which has gluten. The steamed rice is safe. The vegetable delight is likely safe if you ask them to skip the sauce or use a gluten-free soy sauce if they have it. The fried items are not safe due to the batter.
Can I order catering for a party?
Yes, they offer large trays for events. You can call ahead to order the Family Meal or larger catering pans. This is a cost-effective way to feed a crowd. The pricing is usually per tray and depends on the dish you select.
Why do prices vary between locations?
Prices change based on the cost of rent and labor in the area. A location in a high-end mall will charge more than a standalone store in a strip mall. Also, highway rest stops often have a premium on their prices.
Is the orange chicken spicy?
No, the orange chicken is sweet with a very mild tang. It has no real heat. If you want spice, you should go for the General Tso’s chicken or add chili oil at the condiment station.
Final Thoughts On The Cost
You can get a filling meal for around eight to nine dollars. If you stick to a single entree and water, you can get out for under seven dollars. It remains one of the more affordable options in the fast-food Chinese segment.
The menu is consistent, and the quality is predictable. You know you are going to get a lot of food that tastes exactly like it did last time. There are no surprises, which is comforting when you are hungry.
So, next time you are at the food court, do not overthink it. Go for the double entree combo with fried rice and an egg roll. It is the classic order for a reason. You will leave full and satisfied without spending a fortune.
Make sure to check the specific pricing at your local store, as sales tax and local fees can affect the final total. But with the guide above, you have a solid estimate of what to expect. Enjoy your meal.