Panda Express Menu Guide: What to Order, How It Works, and How to Build a Meal You’ll Actually Enjoy
If you’ve ever walked into Panda Express and felt stuck staring at the steam table, you’re not alone. The Panda Express menu looks simple at first, but once you start choosing sides, entrees, and add-ons, it becomes a lot of little decisions fast. The good news is: once you understand how the menu is set up, ordering gets easy and you can build a meal that fits your taste, appetite, and budget.
This guide breaks down the Panda Express menu in a practical way, without overcomplicating it.
How the Panda Express Menu Works
Most people order Panda Express using a “build your plate” format:
- Bowl: 1 side + 1 entree
- Plate: 1 side + 2 entrees
- Bigger Plate: 1 side + 3 entrees
That’s the core of the menu. Everything else appetizers, drinks, desserts sits around that.
What counts as a “side”?
Sides are your base. Usually:
- Chow Mein (stir-fried noodles)
- Fried Rice
- White Steamed Rice
- Super Greens (a lighter option)
Depending on location, you may see small variations, but the structure stays the same.
What counts as an “entree”?
Entrees are the main dishes: chicken, beef, shrimp, and tofu options in different sauces and styles. Some items may cost extra (often listed as a “premium entree”), depending on the store.
Popular Sides on the Panda Express Menu
Chow Mein
This is a classic for a reason. It’s savory, filling, and works well with saucy entrees. If you like a heavier, comfort-food meal, Chow Mein usually hits.
Fried Rice
A solid all-rounder. It pairs well with bold, spicy entrees because it balances the flavor. If you’re hungry, fried rice tends to feel more filling than steamed rice.
White Steamed Rice
Simple, clean, and great with saucy dishes. If you want the entree flavors to stand out, steamed rice is the easiest choice.
Super Greens
If you’re trying to keep the meal lighter, this is the go-to. It also works nicely with richer, sweeter entrees because it cuts through the heaviness.
Entrees: What You’ll Usually See
The Panda Express menu rotates sometimes, but there are a few familiar staples people look for again and again.
Orange Chicken
This is the most famous item on the menu. It’s crispy, sweet, and tangy with a sticky sauce. If you want the “classic Panda” experience, this is it.
Beijing Beef
Crunchy beef strips with a sweet-and-spicy sauce. If you like bold flavor and a bit of bite, this one stands out.
Kung Pao Chicken
A spicy, savory option with peanuts and vegetables. It’s a good pick if you want something with heat and a bit more “stir-fry” character.
Broccoli Beef
A simpler, less heavy option. If you want something that feels more balanced and not too sweet, this is a common choice.
Honey Walnut Shrimp
A creamy, sweet shrimp option that many people treat like a “special” entree. It’s usually premium in many locations.
Teriyaki Chicken
Grilled chicken with teriyaki sauce on the side. This is often one of the easiest picks if you prefer a less fried, less saucy entree.
Mixed Veggies / Tofu Options (Where Available)
If you’re not in the mood for meat or want a lighter meal, check what veggie-based entree options your store has that day.
Building a Good Plate: Easy Combos That Work
If you want to order quickly and avoid a random mix, these combos are safe and popular:
Sweet + Savory Balance
- Side: Chow Mein or Fried Rice
- Entrees: Orange Chicken + Broccoli Beef
Spicy Combo
- Side: Steamed Rice
- Entrees: Kung Pao Chicken + Beijing Beef
Lighter Feel
- Side: Super Greens
- Entrees: Teriyaki Chicken + Broccoli Beef
Crowd-Pleaser Plate
- Side: Fried Rice
- Entrees: Orange Chicken + any second entree you like (Beijing Beef is a common match)
Appetizers and Extras
These vary by location, but often include:
- Egg rolls / spring rolls
- Rangoon / cream cheese wontons (availability varies)
- Soups (some stores)
If you’re starving, an appetizer can help, but for many people, a Plate or Bigger Plate already feels like a full meal.
Nutrition, Allergens, and Dietary Notes
This matters more than people think, especially if you’re ordering for someone else.
- Many items include soy, wheat, sesame, eggs, and nuts.
- Some dishes are fried, some are grilled, and sauces can change the calorie and sugar levels a lot.
- If you have allergies or strict dietary needs, it’s best to check the official nutrition/allergen information for your location before ordering.
Menu ingredients and preparation can differ, so don’t rely on memory alone if it’s serious.
Ordering Tips That Make Life Easier
1) Ask for a sample
Most locations will let you taste an entree before you commit. If you’re unsure between two choices, sampling saves regret.
2) Think about sauce level
If your entree is very saucy (Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef), pairing it with Super Greens or steamed rice can balance the meal.
3) Mix textures
A crunchy entree + a softer side usually feels more satisfying than all-soft or all-crispy.
4) If you want less mess, choose grilled options
Grilled entrees tend to travel better, especially for delivery.
5) Go Bigger Plate if you want variety
If you like switching bites and not getting bored, 3 entrees is the sweet spot.
Panda Express Menu for Groups: Family Meals and Catering
If you’re ordering for family, friends, or an office:
- Family-style bundles (when available) make it easier than individual bowls.
- Choose a mix: one sweet item, one spicy item, one lighter item, plus a neutral side like rice.
- If you’re unsure, Orange Chicken is usually the “safe” choice for a mixed group.
Availability varies by store, so check the ordering page or app for your local options.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to order from the Panda Express menu?
Choose Bowl (1 entree), Plate (2 entrees), or Bigger Plate (3 entrees), then pick your side and entree(s).
What’s the most popular Panda Express menu item?
Orange Chicken is the most well-known and commonly ordered entree.
Does the Panda Express menu change?
Yes, some items rotate or vary by location, and limited-time entrees can appear seasonally.
How do I find the exact Panda Express menu near me?
The most accurate way is through the official app or your local store’s ordering page, since availability can vary.
