Panda Express Protein Hacks: The Ultimate Guide for High-Protein Meals
If you’re looking for a high-protein meal at Panda Express, you might wonder, Is Panda Express good for bulking? The answer is yes! While often seen as a fast-food option, Panda Express offers plenty of protein-packed meals that can help you hit your muscle-building goals.
Panda Express Protein Hacks
For those on a bodybuilding diet, picking the right entrees and sides can make all the difference. With options like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Black Pepper Angus Steak, and Kung Pao Chicken, you can customize your meal to be both nutrient-dense and muscle-friendly.
Why Panda Express is a Bodybuilder’s Best Friend
Panda Express may not be the first place you think of for bodybuilding meals, but with the right choices, it can be a convenient and delicious way to fuel your gains. Here’s why:
- Quick and Accessible: With locations everywhere, it’s easy to grab a meal on the go.
- Customizable: Mix and match entrees and sides to create a meal that fits your macros.
- High-Protein Options: Many dishes are packed with lean protein to support muscle growth.
Is Panda Express Good for Bulking and High-Protein Diets?
Absolutely! With its high-protein entrees and customizable options, Panda Express can be a great choice for bulking. Focus on calorie-dense dishes like Beijing Beef or Orange Chicken paired with sides like fried rice to hit your calorie surplus goals.
Top 3 High-Protein Panda Express Meals for Bodybuilding
- The Muscle Builder:
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (36g protein) + Steamed Vegetables + Brown Rice
- The Bulking Combo:
- Beijing Beef (14g protein) + Kung Pao Chicken (26g protein) + Fried Rice
- The Lean Gains Meal:
- Broccoli Beef (9g protein) + Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (36g protein) + Steamed Vegetables
Best High-Protein Panda Express Meals
Here are some of the highest-protein options at Panda Express:
1. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Protein: 36g per serving
- Calories: 300
- Why it’s great: One of the best Panda Express protein hacks is opting for grilled over fried. This dish is a lean protein powerhouse that helps with muscle recovery.
2. Black Pepper Angus Steak
- Protein: 19g per serving
- Calories: 180
- Why it’s great: This low-calorie, high-protein Panda Express meal is perfect for those looking to lean bulk without excess fat.
3. Kung Pao Chicken
- Protein: 16g per serving
- Calories: 290
- Why it’s great: A spicy, protein-packed option with added benefits from vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
4. String Bean Chicken Breast
- Protein: 14g per serving
- Calories: 190
- Why it’s great: A low-calorie, high-protein meal, great for cutting while keeping protein intake high. String Bean Chicken Breast is one of the best choices.
5. Broccoli Beef
- Protein: 9g per serving
- Calories: 150
- Why it’s great: The beef provides quality protein, while broccoli adds fiber and micronutrients. Broccoli Beef is the best vegan food recipe for Chinese food lovers.
How Much Protein is in Popular Panda Express Dishes?
| Menu Item | Protein (g) | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Chicken | 13g | 490 |
| Beijing Beef | 12g | 470 |
| Mushroom Chicken | 13g | 220 |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp | 13g | 360 |
| Chicken Potstickers | 9g | 200 |
👉 Explore the full Panda Express Entree Menu
Panda Express Protein Hack: Build Your Perfect Meal
Here’s how to create a high-protein Panda Express meal that fits your fitness goals:
Step 1: Choose a High-Protein Entree
- Opt for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken or Kung Pao Chicken for the most protein.
Step 2: Add a Protein-Friendly Side
- Skip the fried rice and chow mein. Instead, go for steamed vegetables or brown rice to keep the meal balanced.
Step 3: Double Up on Protein
- Order a double portion of your chosen entree to maximize your protein intake.
Step 4: Watch the Sauces
- Avoid sugary sauces and stick to lighter options like soy sauce or chili sauce.
Chinese Panda Protein Hack: Customizing Your Meal
To maximize protein intake while keeping your meal balanced, follow these hacks:
1. Go Bigger with a Bigger Plate
One Panda Express protein meal hack is ordering the Bigger Plate, which includes three entrees instead of two. A high-protein combination could be:
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (36g protein)
- Kung Pao Chicken (16g protein)
- String Bean Chicken Breast (14g protein)
- Super Greens as a side
2. Choose the Right Side for More Protein
- Best High-Protein Side: Brown Rice (5g protein per serving)
- Healthiest Option: Super Greens (2g protein, low-calorie)
- Avoid: Fried Rice & Chow Mein (higher in carbs and fats)
3. Skip the Sauce
Many sauces at Panda Express are high in sugar and calories. Opt for lighter sauces or ask for them on the side to control your intake.
Is Panda Express Good for Protein?
Absolutely! With smart choices, Panda Express can be a great place for high-protein meals. Whether you’re bulking, maintaining, or cutting, you can find options that fit your macros.
Quick Summary of Panda Express Protein Hacks:
✔️ Choose grilled proteins like Teriyaki Chicken
✔️ Go for a Bigger Plate for more protein-packed entrees
✔️ Pick Super Greens or Brown Rice as a side
✔️ Watch out for high-calorie sauces
✔️ Use their Nutrition Calculator to customize your meal → Panda Express Menu Nutrition Calculator
Unlock Your Gains with Panda Express
With the right Panda Express protein hack, you can turn this fast-food favorite into a bodybuilding powerhouse. Whether you’re bulking, cutting, or just looking for a quick high-protein meal, Panda Express has options to fit your needs. So next time you’re on the go, don’t hesitate to stop by and fuel your gains with these high-protein Panda Express meals!
If you’re looking for fast food with high protein, Panda Express is one of the best options. With smart ordering strategies, you can enjoy your meal while staying on track with your fitness goals.
What’s your go-to Panda Express protein meal? Let us know in the comments!