High Protein Options at Panda Express: Complete Guide

Looking to increase your protein intake at Panda Express? This guide will help you identify the best high-protein options and create balanced meals that support your nutritional goals.

Best High-Protein Entrees

1. Teriyaki Chicken (41g protein)

  • 41g protein per serving
  • 340 calories
  • 13g total fat
  • Only 14g carbs
  • 630mg sodium
  • 3g dietary fiber

2. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (33g protein)

  • 33g protein per serving
  • 275 calories
  • 10g total fat
  • 14g carbs
  • 470mg sodium
  • Lean protein option

3. Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (19g protein)

  • 19g protein per serving
  • 210 calories
  • 10g total fat
  • 13g carbs
  • 560mg sodium
  • Rich in iron

High-Protein Sides

1. Super Greens (9g protein)

  • 9g protein per serving
  • 130 calories
  • 4g total fat
  • 14g carbs
  • 7g fiber
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals

2. Chow Mein (15g protein)

  • 15g protein per serving
  • Higher in calories (600)
  • 23g total fat
  • 94g carbs
  • 7g fiber

Building High-Protein Meals

Maximum Protein Combinations

  1. Ultimate Protein Plate (50g protein)

    • Teriyaki Chicken (41g protein)
    • Super Greens (9g protein)
    • Total Calories: 470
  2. Lean Protein Combo (42g protein)

    • Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (33g protein)
    • Super Greens (9g protein)
    • Total Calories: 405
  3. Mixed Protein Plate (28g protein)

    • Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (19g protein)
    • Super Greens (9g protein)
    • Total Calories: 340

Protein Content by Category

Chicken Options

  • Teriyaki Chicken: 41g protein
  • Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: 33g protein
  • Orange Chicken: 26g protein
  • Black Pepper Chicken: 13g protein
  • Mushroom Chicken: 13g protein
  • String Bean Chicken Breast: 12g protein

Beef Options

  • Black Pepper Sirloin Steak: 19g protein
  • Broccoli Beef: 9g protein
  • Beijing Beef: 14g protein

Seafood Options

  • Wok-Fired Shrimp: 17g protein
  • Golden Treasure Shrimp: 14g protein
  • Honey Walnut Shrimp: 13g protein

Tips for Maximizing Protein

1. Choose the Right Base

  • Super Greens: 9g protein
  • Chow Mein: 15g protein
  • White Rice: 10g protein
  • Brown Rice available at select locations

2. Protein Boosting Strategies

  • Combine multiple protein sources
  • Add extra meat to your order
  • Include protein-rich sides
  • Consider portion sizes

3. Meal Timing

  • Great for post-workout meals
  • Can be part of meal prep
  • Consider splitting larger portions

Special Considerations

For Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts

  • Focus on lean proteins like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
  • Balance protein with complex carbs
  • Watch sodium intake
  • Consider total macronutrients

Vegetarian Protein Options

  • Super Greens: 9g protein
  • Eggplant Tofu: 7g protein
  • Consider combining multiple vegetarian items

Smart Ordering Tips

  1. Maximize Protein-to-Calorie Ratio

    • Teriyaki Chicken: 0.12g protein per calorie
    • Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: 0.12g protein per calorie
    • Black Pepper Sirloin Steak: 0.09g protein per calorie
  2. Watch Additional Calories

    • Be mindful of sauce additions
    • Consider lower-carb sides
    • Balance total meal calories
  3. Portion Control

    • Standard portions are generous
    • Consider your daily protein needs
    • Plan for multiple meals if needed

Conclusion

Panda Express offers several high-protein options, with Teriyaki Chicken leading the pack at 41g protein per serving. By combining protein-rich entrees with sides like Super Greens, you can create satisfying meals that support your protein goals while enjoying flavorful Chinese-American cuisine.


Note: All nutritional information is sourced directly from Panda Express's current menu data. Values may vary slightly by location and preparation method.