Orange chicken from Panda Express is a crowd favorite, with its crispy coating and sweet, tangy sauce. Many of us enjoy this tasty dish, but it raises a common question: how many calories is Panda Express orange chicken?
When you dive into those flavorful bites, knowing the calorie count can help you make informed choices about your meal. Let’s explore the details, so you can enjoy your orange chicken while staying on track with your health goals.
How Many Calories is Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Panda Express Orange Chicken is a favorite dish for many. It combines crispy chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. But how many calories does it have? A serving of Orange Chicken (about 3.5 ounces) contains approximately 300 calories. This number can vary slightly based on the serving size and preparation method.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
To understand the calories in Orange Chicken better, it helps to look at its main ingredients. Let’s break it down:
- **Chicken:** The chicken used is usually breaded and fried. This adds extra calories.
- **Orange Sauce:** This sauce is sweet and often includes sugar, soy sauce, and orange juice. Sugar can significantly increase calorie counts.
- **Vegetables:** Sometimes, small amounts of vegetables like green onions are added. They contribute a few calories but are generally low.
Each of these components plays a role in the dish’s overall calorie content.
Understanding Serving Size
Serving size matters when counting calories. At Panda Express, the standard serving size for Orange Chicken is about 3.5 ounces. Many people order larger sizes, which can increase the calorie count.
Calorie Increase by Size
It’s essential to know how the calories change based on your choice of serving size. Here’s a simple table showing the calorie count for different serving sizes:
| Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|
| 3.5 ounces | 300 |
| 7 ounces | 600 |
| 10 ounces | 850 |
This table shows how quickly calories add up with larger portions.
Comparing Other Panda Express Dishes
When considering calories, it’s helpful to compare Orange Chicken with other items on the menu. Here are a few popular dishes at Panda Express and their calorie counts:
- **Beijing Beef:** Approximately 470 calories per serving.
- **Kung Pao Chicken:** About 290 calories per serving.
- **Grilled Teriyaki Chicken:** Around 320 calories per serving.
Panda Express offers a range of options, and some are lower in calories than Orange Chicken.
Healthier Choices
If you’re looking for lower-calorie meals, consider these options:
- **Vegetable Spring Rolls:** Around 140 calories per roll.
- **Steamed Mixed Vegetables:** Just about 80 calories for a serving.
- **String Bean Chicken Breast:** Approximately 150 calories per serving.
These meals can keep you full without as many calories.
Making Healthier Choices with Orange Chicken
If you love Orange Chicken but want to reduce calories, here are some tips:
- **Choose a smaller serving:** Opt for the smallest size available.
- **Share your meal:** Split a larger portion with a friend to cut calories.
- **Skip extra rice or fried sides:** This will reduce your overall calorie intake.
By making small choices, you can enjoy your meal without overindulging.
Calories in Accompaniments
Many people enjoy side dishes along with Orange Chicken, which adds to the total calorie count. Here’s a look at some common sides:
| Side Dish | Calories |
|---|---|
| Fried Rice (small) | 320 |
| Chow Mein (small) | 380 |
| Steamed Rice (small) | 200 |
Adding these sides can significantly increase the calorie total of your meal.
Eating Balance: Orange Chicken in Moderation
While Orange Chicken is delicious, enjoying it in moderation is key. Balance it with healthier sides or smaller portions. Eating this way helps maintain a healthy diet without feeling deprived.
Understanding Nutrition Labels
When dining out, nutrition labels aren’t always available. However, Panda Express does provide nutritional information online. Checking these details can guide you in making healthier choices.
In summary, a serving of Panda Express Orange Chicken contains about 300 calories, but this can increase depending on the portion size and sides you choose. Being mindful of serving sizes and how many calories you consume can help you enjoy this tasty dish while keeping your diet on track. Enjoying Orange Chicken occasionally, paired with healthier sides, allows for a satisfying yet balanced meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a serving of Panda Express Orange Chicken?
A standard serving of Panda Express Orange Chicken contains about 300 calories.
Does Panda Express offer a nutritional guide for Orange Chicken?
Yes, Panda Express provides a nutritional guide that includes information on Orange Chicken and other menu items.
Is the calorie count for Orange Chicken the same for all serving sizes?
No, the calorie count can vary based on the serving size. A larger portion will have more calories.
Can I reduce the calories in Orange Chicken?
You can reduce the calories by choosing a smaller portion or pairing it with healthier sides like steamed vegetables.
Are there any other high-calorie items at Panda Express?
Yes, other items like Beijing Beef and Cream Cheese Rangoons also have high calorie counts.
Does the calorie content change with different cooking methods?
No, the calorie content remains the same, as the recipe for Orange Chicken typically stays consistent across cooking methods.
How does the calorie count of Orange Chicken compare to other menu items?
Orange Chicken is one of the higher-calorie options at Panda Express compared to lighter choices like the Chow Mein.
Can I find the calorie information on Panda Express’s website?
Yes, you can find detailed calorie information and nutritional facts on the Panda Express website.
Is Orange Chicken a healthy choice?
While Orange Chicken is tasty, it is not considered a healthy choice due to its high calorie and sugar content.