Pandas are known for their intelligence and charm, and now you can enjoy a delicious high-protein meal at Panda Express without compromising on nutritional value. This fast-food chain offers a variety of high-protein menu items that are perfect for people looking to boost their protein intake. In this article, we will break down the menu and discuss some helpful strategies for ordering healthy meals at Panda Express.
1. What is Panda Express?
Panda Express is a widely popular Chinese fast-food restaurant chain founded by Peggy and Andrew Cherng in 1983. Headquartered in Glendale, California, the company has over 2,000 locations worldwide and serves over 1 million customers daily. Panda Express is known for its fresh vegetables, high-quality ingredients, and innovative menu items that are inspired by traditional Chinese flavors.
2. Why Choose Panda Express for High-Protein Meals?
If you're looking for a quick and convenient high-protein meal, Panda Express offers some of the best options available. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to order from this fast-food chain:
- Variety of menu items: Panda Express has a wide range of high-protein menu items that cater to different dietary preferences and requirements, including chicken, beef, seafood, and tofu dishes.
- Healthy ingredients: The restaurant uses fresh vegetables and high-quality ingredients to prepare its dishes, ensuring that you get a balanced meal that's low in saturated脂肪 and calories.
- Convenient ordering: Panda Express offers a variety of ordering options, including bowl, plate, and bigger plate, allowing you to build your ideal meal according to your specific preferences and dietary goals.
- Cost-effective: While some high-protein fast-food restaurants can be pricey, Panda Express provides affordable options that won't break the bank, making it an accessible choice for people on a budget.
3. Finding the Highest Protein Options on the Panda Express Menu
Now that you know Panda Express is a great place for high-protein meals, let's take a closer look at the specific options available to you. Here are some of the highest protein menu items at Panda Express:
3.1. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 13g
- Carbs: 8g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 36g
- Protein: 36g
Grilled teriyaki chicken is one of the most popular high-protein menu items at Panda Express. Made with grilled marinated chicken, it's served with a flavorful teriyaki sauce and is low in saturated fat.
3.2. Black Pepper Angus Steak
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 19g
- Protein: 19g
Black pepper Angus steak is a hearty, flavorful option that provides a good source of protein and limited saturated fat. A 5.1-ounce serving contains 19 grams of protein and 2.5 grams of saturated fat.
3.3. Orange Chicken
- Calories: 370
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 38g
- Sugar: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
Orange chicken is a classic Chinese takeout dish made with fried breaded chicken in a sticky orange sauce. While it has almost 20 grams of protein and is a lower-calorie option compared to some other chicken dishes, it is important to pair it with a healthier side option such as super greens.
3.4. Kung Pao Chicken
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 19g
- Carbs: 14g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
Kung Pao chicken is a spicy stir-fry with chicken, red chilies, bell peppers, zucchini, green onions, and peanuts. It provides over 15 grams of protein and is a healthier option than some other fried entrees.
3.5. Honey Sesame Chicken Breast
- Calories: 490
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 40g
- Sugar: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
Honey sesame chicken is made with breaded chicken and a sweet and savory sauce. It has an average of 16 grams of protein per serving and can be paired with a healthier side such as super greens or rice.
3.6. String Bean Chicken Breast
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
String bean chicken breast is made with chicken breast, string beans, and onions. It's the highest fiber entree at Panda Express and provides a good source of protein and fiber. A side of super greens or a side of chow mein will increase the fiber content of the meal to six grams per serving.
4. Healthier Side Options at Panda Express
While Panda Express serves some of the healthiest main course options, pairing these dishes with healthy sides will help you create a balanced, nutritious meal. Here are some of the best side options to enjoy with your high-protein Panda Express order:
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Super Greens: This side dish is made with broccoli, cabbage, and kale and provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It's low in calories and fat and can help you feel full and satisfied while still adding essential nutrients to your meal.
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Steamed Brown Rice: Steamed brown rice provides more fiber than white rice and is an excellent source of carbohydrates. It's a healthy side option that complements many high-protein entrees.
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Chow Mein: If you enjoy the flavor of chow mein, here's another high-protein option that's low in calories and fat. It's made with wheat noodles and can be a versatile addition to your meal.
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Brown Rice: Brown rice is a great whole-grain option that provides more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white rice. It's also a good side for pairing with spicy dishes to balance the flavors.
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Black Pepper Chicken: If you like black pepper, this dish combines marinated chicken, celery, and onions with flavorful spices. It's a versatile side option that can be paired with a variety of high-protein entrees to balance the meal.
5. Building Healthy Meals at Panda Express
Now that you know which Panda Express menu items are high in protein and healthier side options to choose from, it's time to start building healthy meals. Here are some ideas to help you create a balanced and nutritious meal using Panda Express dishes:
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Bowl: Start with a bowl that includes a high-protein entree and a side option. For the base of your bowl, consider a grilled teriyaki chicken or black pepper Angus steak. Top with your favorite side dish, such as Super Greens or steamed brown rice, to complete the meal.
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Plate: Opt for a plate with two high-protein entrees and a side option. This will give you a good mix of carbohydrates and proteins. For the entrees, try a kung pao chicken or a honey sesame chicken breast. Pair with a side of chow mein or brown rice to balance the meal.
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Bigger Plate: A bigger plate with three high-protein entrees and a side option is perfect for large portions or people who prefer a more filling meal. In this case, a super greens side option will complement each entree beautifully and keep the meal well-rounded.
6. High-Protein Options for Athletes: Tips and Tricks
As we've seen, high-protein menu items at Panda Express can be nutritious and satisfying. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to help you take advantage of these options:
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Opt for Wok Smart Products: The "Wok Smart" classification system indicates that the product contains fewer calories (less than 300 calories) and at least 8 grams of protein (one serving). This option is ideal for athletes looking for lower-calorie options to support weight loss or muscle recovery.
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Build a Well-Balanced Meal: To achieve a well-rounded meal, include a high-protein main dish, a healthy side option, and a nutritious beverage. This combination will ensure that you consume the essential nutrients you need to fuel your performance.
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Order Multiple Courses: If you're planning to order multiple courses, consider dividing the high-protein options into two bowls or plates. This allow you to enjoy more of the meal at once and avoid having to wait between courses.
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Cater to Large Groups: For events with larger groups, consider ordering catering size pancakes to provide enough high-protein options for everyone. This will also ensure that you have a balance of carbohydrates and proteins to fuel the team's energy levels.
