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
-
Ultimate Protein Plate (50g protein)
- Teriyaki Chicken (41g protein)
- Super Greens (9g protein)
- Total Calories: 470
-
Lean Protein Combo (42g protein)
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (33g protein)
- Super Greens (9g protein)
- Total Calories: 405
-
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
-
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
-
Watch Additional Calories
- Be mindful of sauce additions
- Consider lower-carb sides
- Balance total meal calories
-
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.