Panda Express Fried Rice
When you’re craving a delicious, satisfying meal, Panda Express Fried Rice often comes to mind. As a popular fast-casual restaurant known for its tasty Chinese-American fare, Panda Express has made its fried rice a staple in many people’s diets. Whether you’re wondering about its calories, nutritional breakdown, or even comparing it to other menu items like chow mein, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Panda Express fried rice!
But before digging in, you may have questions about what’s inside, how it’s prepared, and whether it fits your dietary needs.
Prices
Bowl
$5.75
Plate
$10.10
Big Platter
$15.00
Panda Express Fried Rice is a timeless favorite that effortlessly combines simplicity with bold flavor. With perfectly seasoned white rice, scrambled eggs, crisp carrots, and vibrant green onions, all tossed together in a savory soy sauce, it offers a satisfying and comforting meal.
Panda Express Fried Rice
The delicate balance of textures—from the fluffy rice to the slight crunch of vegetables—makes each bite a pleasure. Whether you’re pairing it with a protein-packed entrée or enjoying it on its own, this dish is a go-to for anyone seeking a quick, flavorful, and fulfilling option. Ideal for those who crave a delicious, no-fuss meal, Panda Express Fried Rice strikes the perfect harmony of taste and nutrition.
When it comes to pricing, Panda Express Fried Rice is typically one of the more affordable side dishes on the menu. However, prices can vary based on location and portion size, so here’s a general breakdown to give you an idea of what to expect:
Appetizer & Family Meals
Some locations may offer family meals or larger portions, which can come with fried rice as a side, but pricing will vary greatly based on location and the size of the meal. Family meals typically start around $20.00 to $30.00 and include multiple servings of fried rice, along with various entrée options.r enjoyed as part of a combo or on its own, it’s a dish that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Small Side (Fried Rice)
A small serving of fried rice is usually priced around $5.75. This is the standard portion that you’ll often see offered with a combo meal or as a standalone side.
Large Side (Fried Rice)
If you’re looking for a bigger portion, the large side typically costs between $10. This size is perfect if you want to have fried rice as a main dish or if you’re sharing with others.
Combo Meal
Fried rice can also be included in combo meals (where you choose an entrée with one or two sides). If you choose fried rice as one of your sides, a combo meal usually costs between $15, depending on your entrée selection. For example, a two-item combo with fried rice and your choice of chicken, beef, or other proteins might be priced closer to the $9.00 range.
You can download complete Panda Express Menu PDF to keep it with you.
Size
Bowl – Base & 1 Entree
Plate – Base & 2 Entrees
Bigger Plate – Base & 2 Entrees
Panda Express Fried Rice Nutrition Facts
For those keeping an eye on their diet or tracking their daily intake, knowing the calories and nutrition of Panda Express fried rice is essential.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition
Calories
Fat
Saturated Fat
Carbohydrates
Proteins
Sodium
Serving Per Bowl
240 calories
9g
1.5g
36g
6g
650mg
- Sodium: A serving can have up to 580 mg of sodium, so it’s wise to watch your intake if you’re watching your salt consumption.
- Calories: A standard serving of Panda Express fried rice (about 1/2 cup or 120 grams) contains approximately 240 calories.
- Protein: This dish provides 6 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the eggs included in the fried rice.
- Carbohydrates: With around 36 grams of carbs, fried rice is a carb-heavy dish, making it an energy-dense choice for a meal or side.
- Fat: The fried rice contains about 9 grams of fat, which includes both healthy and saturated fats from the oil and soy sauce.
Is Panda Express Fried Rice Vegetarian?
If you’re following a vegetarian diet, you’ll be pleased to know that Panda Express Fried Rice is indeed vegetarian. It doesn’t contain any meat, making it a great option for plant-based eaters. However, it’s important to note that it is made with soy sauce, which often contains small amounts of wheat, so it’s not suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Panda Express Fried Rice vs Chow Mein: Which is Better?
When deciding between Panda Express Fried Rice and Chow Mein, there are a few differences that could influence your choice:
- Calories: Fried rice is slightly lower in calories compared to Chow Mein. A serving of chow mein contains around 420 calories, which is almost double that of the fried rice. So if you’re looking for a lighter option, fried rice may be the way to go.
- Carbs: Chow mein contains more carbohydrates (about 60 grams per serving) compared to fried rice’s 36 grams. If you’re looking to reduce carb intake, fried rice is a better option.
- Flavor & Texture: Fried rice tends to be a bit more savory and soft, thanks to the rice and eggs. Chowmein, on the other hand, is stir-fried with crispy noodles, offering a more substantial texture and a slightly different flavor profile.
- Protein: Both dishes contain protein due to the inclusion of eggs, but Chow Mein usually contains more vegetables and may include additional protein options like chicken or beef.
Panda Express Fried Rice: Serving Size
A typical serving size of Panda Express fried rice is about 1/2 cup (120 grams), which is a common portion when served as a side dish. For a more substantial meal, you may choose to order larger portions or pair it with an entrée.
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Is Panda Express Fried Rice Right for You?
Panda Express Fried Rice is a flavorful, comforting side dish that offers a decent amount of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Whether you are looking to enjoy a simple side with your favorite entrée or considering it as a quick, vegetarian-friendly option, it’s a tasty choice.
However, if you are gluten-sensitive or on a low-carb diet, you might want to explore other menu items, such as steamed rice or grilled chicken, that better fit your dietary preferences.
Panda Express Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old rice for best texture)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (or more, depending on your preference)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Rice: If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool down for 10-15 minutes. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s firmer and doesn’t get mushy when fried.
- Cook the Eggs: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the peas and carrots (frozen or fresh), and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Fry the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir-fry the rice for about 3-5 minutes until it’s heated through and starting to brown slightly.
- Season: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and salt. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and add a pinch of white pepper for extra flavor if desired.
- Add the Eggs: Toss the scrambled eggs back into the rice and mix everything together until well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the fried rice for a fresh, crunchy finish.
Optional Add-ins:
- Bell peppers or mushrooms: Sauté with the onions for more variety.
- Chicken, shrimp, or beef: Dice and cook separately, then add with the eggs.
- Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds extra flavor.
Special Deals & Offers
- Value Menu: Panda Express often runs promotional offers, especially during lunch hours or on special occasions. For example, certain combo meals might be available at a discounted price or with a special deal if you’re ordering through their app or online.
- Online Orders: Ordering online or through the Panda Express app might also provide you with exclusive discounts or free items with your purchase, depending on current promotions.
Enjoy!
Next time you’re ordering at Panda Express, consider the fried rice for its satisfying taste and reasonable nutritional profile. While it’s not for everyone (especially those avoiding gluten), it can be a great choice for many. Whether you’re pairing it with chowmein or enjoying it solo, it’s a tried-and-true option for quick and tasty Chinese-American cuisine!