Uncovering the Truth Behind Panda Express’ Orange Chicken Nutritional Information
Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain that has been serving Chinese-American cuisine since 1983. It is one of the largest Asian restaurant chains in the United States, with over 2,000 locations.
One of Panda Express’ most famous dishes is their Orange Chicken, which is a sweet and savory dish made with deep-fried chicken, orange zest, and chili flakes. However, there have been concerns about the dish’s nutritional value, leading to questions about its ingredients and calorie count.
In this article, we will uncover the truth behind Panda Express’ Orange Chicken’s nutritional information. We will explore the ingredients used, analyze the nutritional values, and provide some insights into how you can enjoy the dish as part of a healthy diet.
The Ingredients Used in Panda Express’ Orange Chicken
According to Panda Express, their Orange Chicken contains the following ingredients:
– Chicken Breast
– Water
– Potatoes Starch
– Salt
– Soybean Oil
– Sugar
– Orange Peel
– Orange Juice
– Rice Vinegar
– Chili Paste
– Garlic
– Ginger
While most of these ingredients are common in Chinese cuisine, some people are concerned about the use of potato starch and soybean oil in the dish.
Potato starch is a common food additive used as a thickener for sauces and soups. While it is generally considered safe, some people may experience digestive issues if they consume large amounts of it.
Soybean oil is a vegetable oil that is commonly used in fast food and processed foods. It is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be unhealthy if consumed in excess.
The Nutritional Values of Panda Express’ Orange Chicken
According to Panda Express’ website, a serving of Orange Chicken (6.3 oz) contains:
– Calories: 500
– Total Fat: 27g
– Saturated Fat: 4.5g
– Trans Fat: 0g
– Cholesterol: 80mg
– Sodium: 940mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 41g
– Dietary Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 19g
– Protein: 23g
While the dish is high in calories and sodium, it is also high in protein and relatively low in saturated and trans fats. However, the high sugar content may be a concern for people with diabetes or those trying to limit their sugar intake.
It’s also worth noting that a serving of Orange Chicken does not include rice or any other side dishes, which can significantly increase the calorie and carbohydrate count of a meal.
How to Enjoy Panda Express’ Orange Chicken as Part of a Healthy Diet
While Orange Chicken may not be the healthiest dish on the Panda Express menu, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet in moderation.
Here are some tips for maximizing the nutritional value of your Panda Express meal:
1. Choose steamed rice instead of fried rice or chow mein to reduce calorie and fat intake.
2. Opt for vegetable-based dishes like mixed vegetables or broccoli beef to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
3. Share a meal with a friend or family member to reduce portion sizes.
4. Skip the sweet sauces like sweet and sour or honey sesame, which are often high in sugar.
5. Use chopsticks to slow down your eating pace and help you savor each bite.
In conclusion, while Panda Express’ Orange Chicken may not be the healthiest dish on their menu, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet in moderation. By making smart choices and being mindful of portion sizes, you can still indulge in this tasty treat without sacrificing your health goals.
