Low-Calorie, High Protein Options at Panda Express
Balancing Health and Flavor at Panda Express
Panda Express, with its enticing array of Chinese-American cuisine, is a popular stop for those craving quick and flavorful meals. While it's often associated with generous portions and bold flavors, Panda Express also offers options for those watching their calorie intake and seeking high protein meals. This guide explores the low-calorie, high-protein choices available at Panda Express, proving that fast food can be both delicious and nutritionally balanced.
1. Broccoli Beef
Calories & Protein: Approximately 150 calories and 9g of protein per serving.
Features: Tender beef and fresh broccoli in a ginger soy sauce.
Why It’s Good: It’s a protein-rich dish with the added nutritional benefits of broccoli, all for a low calorie count.
2. String Bean Chicken Breast
Calories & Protein: Around 190 calories and 14g of protein per serving.
Dish Details: Chicken breast with string beans and onions, tossed in a mild ginger soy sauce.
Healthy Twist: High in protein and low in calories, this dish is also filled with fiber from the string beans.
3. Mushroom Chicken
Calories & Protein: About 220 calories and 13g of protein per serving.
Meal Composition: A combination of chicken, mushrooms, and zucchini in a light ginger soy sauce.
Why Choose This: A balanced mix of lean protein and vegetables, making it a flavorful yet low-calorie option.
4. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Calories & Protein: Roughly 300 calories and 36g of protein per serving.
Features: Grilled chicken thigh hand-sliced to order with a teriyaki glaze.
Why It’s Ideal: Offers a significant amount of protein with the rich, sweet flavor of teriyaki, yet still keeps calories in check.
5. Super Greens
Calories & Protein: Approximately 90 calories and 6g of protein per serving.
Vegetable Medley: A mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
Green Goodness: Low in calories yet high in nutrients and fiber, making it a perfect side to complement protein-rich dishes.
6. Kung Pao Chicken
Calories & Protein: About 290 calories and 16g of protein per serving.
Spicy Staple: A Szechuan-inspired dish with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Spicy and Satisfying: A great choice for those who want a protein boost with a bit of heat, without too many calories.
7. Black Pepper Chicken
Calories & Protein: Roughly 280 calories and 19g of protein per serving.
Dish Details: Marinated chicken with celery and onions in a bold black pepper sauce.
Peppery Perfection: A flavorful dish that provides a good amount of protein while keeping calorie intake moderate.
8. Broccoli Beef
Calories & Protein: Approximately 150 calories and 9g of protein per serving.
Features: Slices of tender beef and fresh broccoli florets in a savory ginger soy sauce.
Why It’s Good: A low-calorie, high-protein choice that's also rich in vitamins and fiber.
9. String Bean Chicken Breast
Calories & Protein: Around 190 calories and 14g of protein.
Dish Details: Chicken breast with crisp string beans and onions, tossed in a light ginger soy sauce.
Healthy Twist: This dish is a great source of lean protein and is low in calories, making it a balanced choice.
10. Kung Pao Chicken
Calories & Protein: About 290 calories and 16g of protein per serving.
Spicy Staple: A classic Szechuan-inspired dish with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Spicy and Satisfying: This dish offers a good protein boost with a moderate calorie count, plus the spiciness can increase satiety.
11. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Calories & Protein: Roughly 300 calories and 36g of protein.
Features: Grilled chicken thigh hand-sliced and served with a teriyaki sauce.
Why It’s Ideal: The grilling process reduces fat content, and the dish provides a substantial amount of protein.
12. Super Greens
Calories & Protein: Approximately 90 calories and 6g of protein.
Vegetable Medley: A mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
Green Goodness: A nutrient-packed side dish that complements any protein-rich entrée.
13. Black Pepper Angus Steak
Calories & Protein: About 180 calories and 19g of protein.
Steak Option: Angus steak wok-seared with baby broccoli, onions, red bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Lean and Flavorful: A great way to enjoy a steak with a high protein content and relatively low calories.
14. Honey Walnut Shrimp
Calories & Protein: Roughly 360 calories and 13g of protein.
Sweet Indulgence: Shrimp, walnuts, and sweet honey sauce.
Balanced Choice: While slightly higher in calories, it offers protein and the goodness of walnuts.
Health-Conscious Choices at Panda Express
Eating healthily at Panda Express is entirely feasible with the right choices. Opting for dishes with lean proteins like chicken or beef and complementing them with vegetable sides can lead to a balanced meal. This guide shows that you can enjoy the rich flavors of Panda Express while adhering to dietary preferences or restrictions. Remember, it's all about choosing wisely and savoring each bite.
