Panda Express, known for its wide array of Chinese-inspired menu items, also offers a selection of high-protein options to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy parent, or simply in need of a quick and nutritious meal, Panda Express has you covered with a variety of options designed to provide a burst of protein to your diet.
What is Protein?
Protein is a crucial macronutrient that plays a vital role in the body's repair, healing, and overall cellular function. It's found in a variety of foods, including meats, seafood, dairy, and plant-based sources. Consuming adequate protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting recovery after exercise, and aiding in the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.
High Protein Panda Express Menu Items
Here's a breakdown of the highest protein options available at Panda Express:
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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Made with grilled marinated chicken, this dish provides a generous 36 grams of protein per serving. It's a versatile choice that complements a variety of sides, making it a great addition to any meal.
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Black Pepper Angus Steak: A flavorful stir-fry with steak strips, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, this entree offers 19 grams of protein per 5.1-ounce serving. With less than half the calories of some other protein-heavy options, it's an excellent choice for active individuals.
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Orange Chicken: A fried breaded chicken dish with a sticky orange glaze that provides nearly 20 grams of protein. While it's high in calories, pairing it with healthy sides like super greens can help balance out the meal.
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Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy stir-fry with colorful veggies and peanuts that provides over 16 grams of protein per serving. It's a healthy option that also helps meet protein needs without compromising on taste.
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Honey Sesame Chicken Breast: Made with breaded chicken and a sweet, savory sauce, this high-calorie entree still clocks in at 490 calories per serving with an impressive 16 grams of protein.
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String Bean Chicken Breast: A light chicken entree with a good amount of fiber from string beans and onions, providing 14 grams of protein per serving. It's a great companion to fried Rice or steamed brown rice.
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Black Pepper Chicken: Made with marinated chicken, celery, and onions, this option is a bit lower in protein than the Black Pepper Angus Steak but still provides 13 grams of protein per serving. It's versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides for a well-rounded meal.
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Honey Walnut Shrimp: Made with tempura-battered shrimp and candied walnuts in a creamy sauce, this seafood option provides 13 days of protein along with sweet and crunchy texture.
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Sweet Fire Chicken Breast: The fiery heat and sweet and sour notes make this chicken breast a must-try for those missing the famous hot and sour soup. It provides about 13 grams of protein, making it a great choice for pairing with healthy sides.
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Beijing Beef: Made of crispy fried beef strips, this popular entree is a healthier option with 13 grams of protein per serving. It's perfect for pairing with steamed white rice for additional protein content.
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Mushroom Chicken: A hearty and veggie-filled chicken entree that provides 12 grams of protein per serving. It's an excellent pairing for fried rice or brown steamed rice.
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Firecracker Shrimp: A light and packed-with-nutrients shrimp entree with under 100 calories per serving, providing over 10 grams of protein. It's versatile and can be paired with rice or chow mein for a complete meal.
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Broccoli Beef: A lower-calorie alternative to other entrees, this dish is a great way to add vitamins and minerals to your diet. It provides 9 grams of protein and can be paired with steamed brown rice for a balanced meal.
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Chicken Egg Roll: An egg roll that is the highest protein appetizer on the Panda Express menu, providing about 8 grams of protein plus some filling fiber from veggies. It's a great choice to start your high-protein meal.
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Eggplant Tofu: A vegan option with 7 grams of protein, it can be easily incorporated into a protein-packed meal with other plant-based sides. The best pairing is with chow mein noodles, providing 13 grams of protein.
Additional High-Protein Panda Express Options
While the options presented above are some of the highest in protein, Panda Express also offers a variety of high-protein entrees and sides to cater to different dietary preferences and requirements.
For instance, the restaurant has also introduced options like a 'Wok Smart' classification system for its healthier menu items. These include dishes that are under 300 calories and contain at least 8 grams of protein. These options are particularly appealing to athletes looking for lower-calorie, higher-protein meals to support weight loss.
Moreover, Panda Express has also introduced a line of vegetarian-friendly dishes, with options such as the 'Kung Pao Vegetable', 'Black Pepper Eggplant', 'and 'Honey Sesame Tofu'. These dishes provide valuable nutrients while adhering to dietary restrictions and preferences.
High Protein Meals at Panda Express
Panda Express offers several meal options to accommodate various dietary goals and preferences. Here are some ideas for creating high-protein meals at the restaurant:
- Healthy Bowl Idea: Opt for steamed white rice with teriyaki chicken or steamed brown rice with brocco beef. Both options provide a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. For an extra boost of protein, order a half order of chow mein noodles and two halves of super greens.
- Healthy Plate Idea: Assemble a half bowl of steamed white rice with teriyaki chicken and half of a bowl of super greens topped with black pepper steak and broccoli beef. This combination offers a well-rounded balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
- Healthy Bigger Plate Idea: Order a super green salad with three servings of a shrimp entree. The combination of high-protein seafood and fresh greens provides a delicious and nutritious meal that also meets protein needs.
Healthier Options for Athletes
Panda Express also offers a range of healthier options suitable for athletes. These options are tailored to support sports nutrition requirements while maintaining a balanced nutrition intake.
For starters, athletes looking for lower-calorie meals can benefit from the high-protein options within the restaurant's "Wok Smart" selection. A popular choice is theGrilled Teriyaki Chicken, which provides a generous amount of protein without a high calorie count. Alternatively, theFirecracker Shrimp offers a flavorful low-calorie option with 10 grams of protein per serving.
Additionally, for athletes who prefer vegetarian or vegan diets, Panda Express offers several vegetarian-friendly dishes. These include the 'Wok Fired Shrimp', the 'Steamed Ginger Fish', and the'Eggplant Tofu'. Each of these dishes is rich in essential nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any athlete's meal plan.
##, Panda Express is well-known for its extensive menu of healthy options, with a focus on high-protein meals to cater to the nutritional needs of athletes and health-conscious diners alike. Whether you're looking for a quick and nutritious meal after a workout or simply want to indulge in a delicious high-protein meal, Panda Express has you covered.
By offering a variety of high-protein entrees and sides that cater to different dietary preferences, the restaurant is able to meet even the most demanding nutritional requirements. With healthy options for athletes and classic favorites for anyone looking for a tasty and wholesome meal, Panda Express is quickly becoming a favorite among health-conscious diners.
