Panda Express Calorie Calculator

Panda Express is a fantastic choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal, but it's also a place where calories can sneak up on you. A plate with Orange Chicken, Fried Rice, and a Cream Cheese Rangoon can easily top 1,000 calories. This guide will help you navigate the menu strategically, so you can enjoy your favorites while staying within your calorie goals.

Step 1: Start with a Low-Calorie Side

Your side choice sets the calorie foundation for your entire plate—and the differences are dramatic.

• The Calorie Champion (Under 100 Calories): Super Greens is your best friend. This medley of broccoli, cabbage, and kale is nutrient-dense, filling, and dramatically lower in calories than any grain option. It's the single biggest calorie-saving swap you can make.
• The Smart Grain Choices (Around 380-420 Calories): If you want grains, Steamed White Rice and Steamed Brown Rice are the leanest options. Brown rice offers slightly more fiber, which helps you feel fuller for longer.
• The Calorie-Heavy Sides (480+ Calories): Chow Mein and Fried Rice are the most popular sides but also the most calorie-dense, thanks to the oil used during cooking. Enjoy these on days when you have more calorie room to spare.
• Pro Tip: Swapping Fried Rice for Super Greens can save you 400+ calories instantly—the single most effective calorie reduction at Panda Express.

Step 2: Pick Your Entree Wisely

Entree calories vary enormously based on whether the protein is grilled or fried, and how heavy the sauce is.

• The Leanest Options (Under 200 Calories): Grilled Teriyaki Chicken and Mushroom Chicken are your go-to low-calorie entrees. They're high in protein and significantly lighter than the fried alternatives.
• A Solid Middle Ground (200-300 Calories): String Bean Chicken Breast, Broccoli Beef, and Sweetfire Chicken Breast offer great flavor at moderate calorie counts. Good choices when you want variety without going overboard.
• The Fan Favorites—Enjoy Mindfully (300+ Calories): Orange Chicken is beloved for a reason, but at 510 calories per serving, it's a significant splurge. Beijing Beef and Honey Walnut Shrimp are in a similar range. These are best enjoyed occasionally or when your calorie budget allows.

Want to see a side-by-side comparison of every entree's calorie count? Check out our full Panda Express Menu with Nutrition Info.

Step 3: Appetizers and Extras - Where Hidden Calories Live

Appetizers are easy to overlook in your calorie count, but they can add hundreds of calories before your main plate arrives.

• The Calorie Adds (Per Item): A Chicken Egg Roll or Vegetable Spring Roll adds roughly 130-200 calories. Cream Cheese Rangoon can add over 150 calories for just a few pieces.
• The Low-Calorie Treat: Fortune Cookies are a guilt-free way to end your meal at only about 15 calories each. Enjoy two without worry.
• The Smart Move: If you're in calorie-management mode, skip appetizers entirely. Put that 150-200 calories toward enjoying a slightly larger entree portion instead.

What if I'm not just counting calories?

While this page is focused on calories, a truly healthy meal is about more than just one number. For a complete picture of your order including protein, fat, sugar, and sodium, use our main AI-Powered Panda Express Nutrition Calculator.

Is there a healthy, low-calorie option for kids?

Absolutely! Panda Express Cub Meals offer kid-sized portions with appropriate calorie counts. To build a balanced and calorie-appropriate meal for your child, use our specially designed Panda Express Cub Meal Calculator.