Panda Express Healthy Menu Options
Discover how to enjoy your favorite Chinese-American flavors while staying on track with your health and fitness goals. Fast food can be functional, filling, and nutritious!
Finding healthy menu options at Panda Express is easier than many people think. While fast food is often known for being high in calories and fat, Panda Express actually offers several meals that can fit into a healthy lifestyle. By choosing the right items, you can enjoy your favorite Chinese-American flavors without ruining your diet..
Many people today are trying to eat healthier, lose weight, or follow a balanced diet. Whether you are counting calories, tracking protein, or simply looking for lighter meals, Panda Express has a variety of options that can help. Items like Super Greens, Broccoli Beef, and Mushroom Chicken are popular choices because they are lower in calories and still very filling..
The key is to focus on menu items that are part of the “Wok Smart” selection, which usually contain 300 calories or less and a good amount of protein. When you combine these healthier entrees with vegetable-based sides instead of rice or noodles, you can easily build a meal that supports your health and fitness goals..
In this guide, we will explore the best healthy Panda Express menu options, their nutrition information, and simple tips to help you order smarter the next time you visit..
Want to track your exact calories and macros? Use the Panda Express Nutrition Calculator to build your perfect, healthy meal!
Panda Express Healthy Menu Options
Here are the top-rated healthy protein options according to our latest nutrition analysis. These picks are chosen for their high protein content and moderate calorie counts.
Super Greens
| Calories | 130 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
Broccoli Beef
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
Black Pepper Sirloin Steak
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 19g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
String Bean Chicken Breast
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
Mushroom Chicken
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 13g |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
Wok-Fired Shrimp
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 17g |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 19g |
Best Healthy Side Dishes
The foundation of a healthy meal starts with your base. At Panda Express, your choice of side can be the difference between a 300-calorie meal and a 900-calorie one.
Super Greens (The Best Option)
The Super Greens side is a nutrient-dense blend of broccoli, kale, and cabbage. It’s the ultimate choice for anyone looking to stay healthy because it provides essential fiber and vitamins for only 130 calories.
Why avoid Fried Rice and Chow Mein? While delicious, these options are high in refined carbohydrates and sodium. A single serving of Fried Rice contains 620 calories, which is nearly five times the calories of Super Greens!
Tips for Eating Healthy at Panda Express
- Choose Grilled or Wok-Tossed: Items like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (without sauce) or Wok-Fired Shrimp are much lower in fat than breaded and deep-fried options like Orange Chicken.
- Replace Rice with Vegetables: Always opt for Super Greens as your side to maximize volume and minimize calories.
- Avoid Sugary Sauces: If you order Teriyaki Chicken, ask for the sauce on the side or avoid it altogether to save on sugar and sodium.
- Watch Portion Sizes: Stick to the “Bowl” size to help with portion control and prevent overeating.
How to Build a Healthy Panda Express Bowl
Follow these 3 simple steps to create a perfect meal every time:
Sample Healthy Combination: Super Greens + Broccoli Beef = 280 Total Calories with 24g of filling protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest item at Panda Express?
The Super Greens side combined with Broccoli Beef or Grilled Teriyaki Chicken are considered the healthiest options due to their low calorie-to-protein ratio and high nutrient density.
Is Panda Express healthy for weight loss?
Yes, by sticking to the “Wok Smart” menu and choosing vegetable bases instead of rice or noodles, Panda Express can easily be incorporated into a weight loss plan.
What Panda Express meal has the lowest calories?
The lowest calorie combination is a bowl of Super Greens (130 cal) and Broccoli Beef (150 cal), totaling just 280 calories.
Is Super Greens healthy?
Absolutely! Super Greens is a mix of kale, broccoli, and cabbage, making it high in fiber, low in calories, and packed with vitamins A and C.
Can I eat Keto at Panda Express?
Yes! A bowl with Super Greens and a low-carb protein like Black Pepper Sirloin Steak or Mushroom Chicken is a great Keto-friendly option.