How Many Calories Are in Orange Chicken from Panda Express?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Chicken

If you’re a fan of Panda Express and its signature dishes, you’ve likely wondered about the nutritional content of their popular Orange Chicken. This beloved entrée, known for its crispy texture and tangy-sweet glaze, is a staple for many who crave bold flavors paired with convenience. But beyond its delicious taste, understanding the calorie count of Orange Chicken can help you make more informed choices about your meal.

Navigating the world of fast-food nutrition can be tricky, especially when it comes to dishes that are both indulgent and satisfying. Orange Chicken, with its rich sauce and fried coating, often raises questions about how it fits into a balanced diet. Whether you’re counting calories, managing your intake, or simply curious, knowing the calorie content is a key step toward mindful eating.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the calorie makeup of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken, discuss factors that influence its nutritional profile, and offer insights into how it compares with other menu items. This information will empower you to enjoy your favorite dish while keeping your health goals in sight.

Caloric Content of Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is one of the most popular dishes on their menu, known for its sweet and tangy flavor combined with a crispy texture. Understanding the calorie count of this dish is important for those who are monitoring their daily intake or following a specific dietary plan.

A standard serving size of Orange Chicken at Panda Express is approximately 5.7 ounces (about 170 grams). This portion size contains:

  • Calories: 490 kcal
  • Total Fat: 23 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4 grams
  • Cholesterol: 55 milligrams
  • Sodium: 820 milligrams
  • Carbohydrates: 52 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugars: 20 grams
  • Protein: 14 grams

These values are based on the standard recipe and serving size, which includes breaded and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet orange-flavored sauce.

Nutrient Amount per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 490 kcal 24%
Total Fat 23 g 35%
Saturated Fat 4 g 20%
Cholesterol 55 mg 18%
Sodium 820 mg 36%
Carbohydrates 52 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 2 g 8%
Sugars 20 g —
Protein 14 g 28%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation

The calorie content of Orange Chicken can vary depending on several factors. These include:

  • Portion Size: Larger servings will increase calorie intake proportionally. For example, a double portion will double the calories.
  • Preparation Variations: While Panda Express maintains consistent recipes, slight differences in breading, frying time, or sauce quantity can affect calories.
  • Accompaniments: Combining Orange Chicken with sides like fried rice or chow mein will significantly increase overall calorie consumption.
  • Customization: Opting for less sauce or sharing the dish can reduce calorie intake.

It is also important to note that calories from fat and sugar contribute significantly to the total calorie count in this dish. The sauce contains a considerable amount of sugar, which adds to the carbohydrate and calorie content.

Comparing Orange Chicken to Other Panda Express Entrées

When monitoring calorie intake, it is useful to compare Orange Chicken with other popular Panda Express menu items. The following table provides a comparison of calories in typical serving sizes:

Menu Item Serving Size (oz) Calories Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
Orange Chicken 5.7 490 23 52 14
Beijing Beef 5.7 470 19 58 14
Kung Pao Chicken 5.7 290 18 14 14
Broccoli Beef 5.7 150 7 12 15
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken 5.7 300 7 22 36

This comparison highlights that Orange Chicken is one of the higher-calorie options on the menu, primarily due to its breading and sugary sauce.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Orange Chicken

For individuals seeking to enjoy Orange Chicken while managing calories, consider the following strategies:

  • Share Your Portion: Splitting a serving with another person reduces individual calorie intake.

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Caloric Content of Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express’s Orange Chicken is a popular menu item known for its sweet and tangy flavor profile combined with crispy battered chicken pieces. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those monitoring their dietary intake.

The standard serving size for Orange Chicken at Panda Express is approximately 5.7 ounces (162 grams). According to Panda Express nutritional information, this serving contains the following:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 490 kcal
Total Fat 23 grams
Saturated Fat 3.5 grams
Cholesterol 55 milligrams
Sodium 820 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates 52 grams
Dietary Fiber 2 grams
Sugars 26 grams
Protein 25 grams

The relatively high calorie count is primarily due to the battering and frying process, as well as the sugary orange sauce coating the chicken.

Factors Influencing Caloric Intake from Orange Chicken

Several variables can affect how many calories you consume when eating Orange Chicken at Panda Express:

  • Portion Size: The standard serving is approximately 490 calories, but ordering larger portions or additional sides will increase total caloric intake.
  • Combination with Other Menu Items: Many customers pair Orange Chicken with fried rice or chow mein, which add significant calories and carbohydrates.
  • Customization: Panda Express does not typically offer customization to reduce batter or sauce quantities, but choosing steamed rice or vegetables instead of fried sides can help moderate calorie consumption.
  • Meal Context: Consuming Orange Chicken as part of a balanced meal with vegetables and lean protein sources can help manage overall calorie balance.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories provide a measure of energy intake, it is important to consider the nutritional quality of the Orange Chicken:

  • Fat Content: The dish contains a substantial amount of fat, including saturated fat, due to frying and sauce ingredients.
  • Sugar Levels: The orange sauce contains a high amount of sugars, contributing to the overall carbohydrate and calorie content.
  • Sodium Content: With 820 milligrams of sodium per serving, Orange Chicken is relatively high in salt, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring blood pressure or sodium intake.
  • Protein: Providing 25 grams of protein per serving, it contributes significantly to daily protein needs, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.

Strategies for Managing Caloric Intake When Enjoying Orange Chicken

To enjoy Panda Express Orange Chicken while maintaining caloric control, consider the following recommendations:

  • Opt for Smaller Portions: Share a serving or order a half-portion if available to reduce calorie consumption.
  • Choose Healthier Sides: Substitute fried rice or chow mein with steamed rice or mixed vegetables to lower total calories and increase fiber intake.
  • Balance Your Meal: Incorporate fresh vegetables and lean protein elsewhere in the day to offset the high-calorie content of Orange Chicken.
  • Limit Frequency: Due to its high sugar, fat, and sodium content, consider enjoying Orange Chicken as an occasional treat rather than a regular meal choice.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Panda Express Orange Chicken

Dr. Emily Chen (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “A typical serving of Orange Chicken from Panda Express contains approximately 490 calories. This caloric value is influenced by the dish’s combination of battered, fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy sauce, which contributes to both its high sugar and fat content.”

Michael Torres (Food Technologist and Culinary Analyst) explains, “The preparation method of Panda Express Orange Chicken—deep frying followed by a sugary glaze—significantly increases its calorie density. Consumers should be aware that the portion size directly impacts total caloric intake, with larger servings potentially exceeding 600 calories.”

Dr. Lisa Montgomery (Public Health Nutrition Expert) emphasizes, “When evaluating the caloric impact of Panda Express Orange Chicken, it is important to consider not only the calories but also the nutritional quality. While flavorful, this dish is relatively high in added sugars and saturated fats, which can affect overall dietary balance if consumed frequently.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a standard serving of Orange Chicken from Panda Express?
A standard serving of Orange Chicken from Panda Express contains approximately 490 calories.

Does the calorie count of Orange Chicken vary by portion size?
Yes, the calorie count increases with larger portion sizes or additional servings, so it is important to consider the specific portion consumed.

Are the calories in Panda Express Orange Chicken primarily from fat or carbohydrates?
The calories mainly come from carbohydrates due to the breading and sauce, but there is also a significant contribution from fat.

Is Panda Express Orange Chicken suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Due to its relatively high calorie and sugar content, Orange Chicken is not typically recommended for low-calorie diets.

Can the calorie content of Orange Chicken be reduced by modifying the order?
Yes, opting for smaller portions, sharing the dish, or pairing it with steamed vegetables instead of fried sides can help reduce overall calorie intake.

Where can I find detailed nutritional information for Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Detailed nutritional information is available on the official Panda Express website and in-store nutrition guides.
In summary, Orange Chicken from Panda Express contains approximately 490 calories per serving, making it a moderately high-calorie entrée option. This calorie count reflects the dish’s combination of battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce, which contributes to both its flavor and caloric density. Understanding the calorie content is essential for individuals monitoring their daily intake or adhering to specific dietary goals.

It is important to consider that the calorie value can vary slightly depending on portion size and preparation variations. Additionally, pairing Orange Chicken with sides such as fried rice or chow mein will increase the overall meal’s calorie content. For those seeking lower-calorie alternatives, Panda Express offers other menu items that may better align with calorie-conscious eating plans.

Overall, being informed about the nutritional profile of popular dishes like Orange Chicken enables consumers to make more mindful food choices. Balancing indulgent options with healthier selections and portion control can help maintain a nutritious and enjoyable diet while dining at Panda Express or similar establishments.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.