Panda Express Menu: A Delicious Variety of Chinese-American Cuisine
Panda Express is a well-known fast-food chain that serves Chinese-American cuisine across the United States. Founded in 1983, Panda Express has been a go-to option for those seeking a quick and tasty Chinese meal. The restaurant chain is known for its flavorful dishes and affordable prices. In this article, we will explore the Panda Express menu, including its history, popular dishes, and nutritional information.
History of Panda Express
Panda Express was founded by Andrew Cherng and his father Ming Tsai Cherng in Glendale, California. The first Panda Express restaurant was opened in 1983 in a mall in Glendale. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, and by 1987, it had expanded to four locations. Today, Panda Express has over 2,200 locations across the United States and in other countries.
Panda Express Menu
The Panda Express menu offers a wide range of Chinese-American dishes, from traditional Chinese dishes to more Americanized options. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and cooking its dishes to order. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular items on the menu.
Orange Chicken
Perhaps the most well-known dish on the Panda Express menu is the Orange Chicken. This dish is made with crispy fried chicken pieces that are coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The chicken is then garnished with green onions for added flavor. Orange Chicken has become a staple of American Chinese cuisine and is loved by many.
Beijing Beef
Another popular dish on the Panda Express menu is the Beijing Beef. This dish is made with crispy beef strips that are wok-tossed with sliced onions and red bell peppers. The beef is then coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Beijing Beef is a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking for a meat-based dish.
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that has been adapted for the American palate. This dish is made with diced chicken that is wok-tossed with peanuts, diced vegetables, and a spicy sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili paste. Kung Pao Chicken is a popular choice for those who love spicy food.
Chow Mein
Chow Mein is a classic Chinese noodle dish that is popular in the United States. Panda Express offers a vegetable chow mein option that is made with stir-fried noodles, shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce and other spices for added flavor.
Fried Rice
Fried rice is another classic Chinese dish that is popular in the United States. Panda Express offers a vegetable fried rice option that is made with steamed rice, peas, carrots, and onions. The rice is then stir-fried with eggs and seasoned with soy sauce and other spices.
Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp
For those looking for a protein-heavy dish, the Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp is a great option. This dish is made with seared steak and shrimp that are wok-tossed with asparagus, red bell peppers, and onions. The dish is then coated in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Nutritional Information
While Panda Express is known for its tasty dishes, it’s important to note that some items on the menu can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for some of the most popular items on the menu.
Orange Chicken
One serving of Orange Chicken (5.8 oz) contains 500 calories, 23 grams of fat, and 840 milligrams of sodium.
Beijing Beef (cont’d)
serving of Beijing Beef (5.7 oz) contains 470 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 970 milligrams of sodium.
Kung Pao Chicken
One serving of Kung Pao Chicken (5.3 oz) contains 290 calories, 14 grams of fat, and 720 milligrams of sodium.
Chow Mein
One serving of Chow Mein (7.1 oz) contains 510 calories, 16 grams of fat, and 1,070 milligrams of sodium.
Fried Rice
One serving of Fried Rice (7.1 oz) contains 570 calories, 21 grams of fat, and 1,070 milligrams of sodium.
Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp
One serving of Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp (5.9 oz) contains 290 calories, 11 grams of fat, and 810 milligrams of sodium.
It’s important to note that the nutritional information may vary based on the size of the serving and any additional toppings or sauces added to the dish. Panda Express does offer a “Wok Smart” menu that features dishes that are lower in calories, fat, and sodium. These dishes are marked with a green Wok Smart logo on the menu.
Panda Express offers a wide variety of tasty Chinese-American dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From the classic Orange Chicken to the vegetable Chow Mein, there’s something for everyone on the menu. It’s important to be aware of the nutritional information for each dish, but Panda Express also offers healthier options on its “Wok Smart” menu. Whether you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal or a satisfying dish to share with friends and family, Panda Express has got you covered.
Entrees:
Orange Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Beijing Beef
Shanghai Angus Steak
Honey Walnut Shrimp
String Bean Chicken Breast
Broccoli Beef
Mushroom Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken
Sweetfire Chicken Breast
Mandarin Chicken
Firecracker Shrimp
Five Flavor Shrimp
Sides:
Fried Rice
Chow Mein
White Steamed Rice
Brown Steamed Rice
Super Greens
Mixed Veggies
Egg Roll
Cream Cheese Rangoon
Chicken Potsticker
Vegetable Spring Roll
Appetizers:
Chicken Egg Roll
Veggie Spring Roll
Cream Cheese Rangoon
Chicken Potsticker
Hot and Sour Soup
Egg Drop Soup
Wonton Soup
Drinks:
Coca-Cola
Diet Coke
Sprite
Dr. Pepper
Fanta
Minute Maid Lemonade
Pibb Xtra
Strawberry Fanta
Hi-C Flashin’ Fruit Punch
Freshly Brewed Iced Tea
Premium Orange Chicken Sauce
Soy Sauce
Chili Sauce
Sweet Chili Sauce
Hot Mustard
Note that menu items and availability may vary by location.
Entrees:
Panda Express offers a variety of entrees that are typically served with steamed rice or chow mein noodles. They include dishes like Orange Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Beijing Beef, Shanghai Angus Steak, and Honey Walnut Shrimp. Customers can also choose from several chicken, beef, and shrimp dishes, as well as vegetarian options like String Bean Chicken Breast, Broccoli Beef, and Mushroom Chicken.
Sides:
In addition to steamed rice and chow mein, Panda Express offers several other side dishes, including Super Greens (a mix of kale, broccoli, and cabbage), Mixed Veggies, and Fried Rice. Customers can also choose from a variety of appetizers, such as Egg Rolls, Cream Cheese Rangoons, and Chicken Potstickers.
Appetizers:
Panda Express has a range of appetizers, including several types of dumplings like Chicken Potstickers and Vegetable Spring Rolls. The restaurant also offers soups like Hot and Sour Soup, Egg Drop Soup, and Wonton Soup.
Drinks:
To accompany their meal, customers can choose from a variety of soft drinks like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta, as well as Minute Maid Lemonade and Freshly Brewed Iced Tea. Additionally, Panda Express provides condiments like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and hot mustard.
Note that Panda Express may offer seasonal or limited-time menu items in addition to their regular offerings.
Entrees
Orange Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken
Beijing Beef
Broccoli Beef
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Shanghai Angus Steak
Honey Walnut Shrimp
Mushroom Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken
String Bean Chicken Breast
Firecracker Chicken Breast
Mandarin Chicken
SweetFire Chicken Breast
Black Pepper Angus Steak
Sides
Chow Mein
Fried Rice
White Steamed Rice
Brown Steamed Rice
Super Greens
Mixed Vegetables
Chicken Egg Roll
Veggie Spring Rolls
Appetizers
Cream Cheese Rangoon
Chicken Potstickers
Veggie Spring Rolls
Chicken Egg Rolls
Drinks
Soft Drinks
Bottled Water
Bottled Drinks
Asian Plum Sauce
A La Carte
Any Entree
Any Side
Family Feast
Any 2 Entrees & 2 Sides
Any 3 Entrees & 3 Sides
Note: The menu may vary by location.
Wok Smart
Wok Smart Menu Selections
Allergen & Nutritional Information
Build Your Own Plate
Choose Your Entree
Choose Your Side
Add a Premium Entree
Catering
Appetizer Party Tray
Build Your Own Party Tray
Panda Favorites Party Tray
Party Platters
Desserts
Chocolate Chunk Cookie
Fortune Cookie
Mini Sugar Donut
Sauces & Extras
Soy Sauce
Sweet Chili Sauce
Hot Mustard
Sriracha
Fortune Cookies
Kids Meal
Jr. entrees (Orange Chicken, String Bean Chicken Breast, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken)
1 Jr. Side (Fried Rice, Steamed Rice, Chow Mein, Mixed Vegetables)
12 oz. drink
Family Bundles
Family Meal Deal (2 Large Entrees, 1 Large Side, 3 Large Entrees, 1 Large Side)
Family Feast (3 Large Entrees, 2 Large Sides)
Limited Time Offerings
Beijing Beef
Honey Sesame Chicken Breast
Honey Walnut Chicken
Golden Szechuan Fish
Wok-Seared Steak & Shrimp
Plant-Based Options
Eggplant Tofu
Super Greens
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Steamed White and Brown Rice
Note: The menu offerings and availability may vary by location and time of day.
Nutrition
Nutrition Calculator
Nutrition Information
Allergen Information
Rewards
Sign Up for Panda Express Rewards
How to Earn and Redeem Rewards
Gift Cards
Purchase Gift Cards
Check Gift Card Balance
Corporate Gift Card Program
Panda Express Swag
Order Panda Express Merchandise
Clothing, Accessories, and More
Note: The availability of certain menu items, nutrition information, and rewards may vary by location and time of day.
Online Ordering
Order Online for Pickup or Delivery
Customize Your Order
Save Your Favorite Orders for Easy Reordering
Catering Services
Full Service Catering
Delivery and Set-Up Catering
Pickup Catering
Fundraising
Host a Panda Express Fundraiser for Your Organization
Raise Money for Your School or Non-Profit
Careers
Explore Job Opportunities at Panda Express
Learn About Career Growth and Development
Community
Panda Cares Charitable Giving Program
Local Community Involvement
Sustainability Efforts
Note: The availability of online ordering, catering services, fundraising, careers, and community involvement may vary by location and time of day.