Panda Express Menu With Pictures

You’re about to get a clear, friendly guide to the USA menu for 2026. This page helps you pick a bowl, plate, bundle, or family meal before you reach the counter or tap to order.

The guide is organized by meal sizes first, then top entrées, premium upgrades, sides, lighter options, drinks, and group orders. Prices shown are “starting at” and reflect typical U.S. locations. They may change by city or ordering method.

Items are grouped into practical categories — Bowl, Plate, Bigger Plate, bundles, kids, and catering — so you can match hunger and budget fast. Photos are shown next to many items to cut down guessing when ordering online.

Expect honest, simple notes on flavor, portion size, and value. If you want the full breakdown of prices, calories, and group options, see the full menu guide at full menu guide.

Panda Express menu overview for the United States

Before you pick flavors, use this snapshot to choose the order size that fits your appetite and budget. This quick guide highlights what’s new for 2026, price expectations, and a fast calories cheat sheet so you can decide in under a minute.

What’s new on the menu in 2026

Expect more build-it-your-way choices. Balanced Protein Plates, portion customization, and ready-to-go Panda Bundles that include a drink are the big changes. Premium entrées carry a typical +$1.50 upcharge per premium portion. Crafted beverages start at $3.40+.

Average prices may vary by location

In-store prices are usually base menu rates. Online platforms may charge service or delivery fees, and listed prices may be slightly higher. Local taxes and special offers also affect totals, so prices may vary by ordering method.

Quick menu price & calorie snapshot

Format	Starting at	Calorie range
Bowl	$8.20	280–1130
Plate	$10.50	430–1640
Bigger Plate	$12.10	580–2150
Family Meal	$40.00+	Varies
Catering	$17.00+/serving	130–620
Kids’ Meal	$7.20	300–740

Calories are shown as ranges because entrées and sides change totals. You’ll find nutrition-friendly swaps later, like Super Greens and portion adjustments. Use this overview to pick the right format, then jump to the detailed sections that match your hunger and budget.

Panda Express Menu With Pictures, prices, and calories by meal size

Start by choosing how much you want to eat; size guides make building a combo easy.

Bowl — one entrée + one side

A Bowl starts around $8.90 for standard entrées. It includes one entrée and one side. Calories range about 280–1130 depending on your side choice.

Premium entrées add +$1.50. Use Orange Chicken (510 cal) or Kung Pao Chicken (320 cal) as quick baselines when you compare flavors.

Plate — two entrées + one side

Plates start at $10.50. You get two entrées and one side. Calories typically fall between 430–1640.

Premium entrées carry the same +$1.50 upcharge each. Pick a mix of sweet and savory chicken or a lighter option like Broccoli Beef (150 cal).

Bigger Plate — three entrées + one side

Bigger Plate starts near $12.10 and includes three entrées plus one side. Expect 580–2150 calories, which makes it a good choice for sharing or variety.

If you want more variety in portions, Bigger Plate can be a smarter buy than multiple small orders.

Format	Starting at	Entrées	Calorie range
Bowl	$8.90	1 entrée + 1 side	280–1130
Plate	$10.50	2 entrées + 1 side	430–1640
Bigger Plate	$12.10	3 entrées + 1 side	580–2150

Build-your-own picks

Pick your side first: Fried Rice (620), Chow Mein (600), White Steamed Rice (520), or Super Greens (130).

Then choose entrées by flavor: sweet (Orange Chicken), spicy (SweetFire), savory (Mushroom Chicken), or lean (Grilled Teriyaki Chicken 275 cal).

Sauce tip: keep flavors clean by asking for light soy or packets on the side when mixing sweet and savory items.
Portion tip: choose Bigger Plate for variety or combine lighter entrées and Super Greens to cut calories.

Most-ordered entrées worth adding to your order

These fan-favorite entrées make choosing simple when you want reliable flavor and comfort. Below are quick notes on what to expect and how to pair each choice.

The Original Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is the top seller for a reason. It offers a sweet tang and mild heat that suits most palates.

It’s a safe pick when you don’t want to gamble on a new item. Pair it with a veggie-forward side to keep the meal balanced.

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken brings real spice, crunchy peanuts, and crisp veggies. Expect a peppery bite, not just heat for heat’s sake.

Note peanuts: mention allergies when ordering.

Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

Honey sesame chicken serves as a sweeter, less saucy alternative to orange chicken. The glaze is sticky and sweet-savory.

Veggie texture can vary by location. If you prefer crisp greens, ask for them on the side.

Broccoli Beef and Mushroom Chicken

Broccoli beef and mushroom chicken are lighter choices. They use fewer breaded pieces and less sauce.

Pick these when you want a filling meal that leans veggie-forward and Wok Smart-style.

Beijing Beef and SweetFire Chicken Breast

Beijing beef and sweetfire chicken breast read as “sweet heat” on the menu. Many diners find them sweeter than spicy.

Balance them by pairing with a savory or green side so the sweetness doesn’t overwhelm.

Mix-and-match tip: pair one sweeter entrée with one savory or veggie-forward entrée on a Plate.
Group tip: orange chicken and broccoli beef are crowd-pleasers; Kung Pao Chicken is a more niche spicy pick.

Entrée	Profile	Pairing
Orange Chicken	Sweet-mild heat	Super Greens or Fried Rice
Kung Pao Chicken	Spicy, crunchy	Steamed Rice, veggies on side
Broccoli Beef	Lighter, savory	White Rice or Super Greens

Premium entrées and when the upgrade makes sense

Some items carry a small premium but change the whole meal experience. A premium entrée means you pay an extra charge for a specific protein when you build a Bowl, Plate, or Bigger Plate.

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey walnut shrimp is very sweet and glossy. Expect a thick glaze and candied nut crunch that leans dessert-like.

Many people love the texture and flavor. Others find the sweetness too strong for a main course. Consider this before you pay the upcharge.

Black Pepper Sirloin Steak and other picks

Black Pepper Sirloin Steak brings savory heat and bold pepper notes. It often comes with a simple veggie mix and feels more “Wok Smart” than indulgent.

Some diners say it justifies the cost. Others prefer standard entrées for better value.

How premium upcharges work

Premium portions add roughly +$1.50 each. A premium bowl averages about $10.90; a premium plate sits near $12.00. On Bigger Plates, premiums stack fast.

If you care about crispness, pickup or dine-in keeps texture better than delivery panda express orders.

Format	Typical upcharge	Approx. premium price
Bowl	+$1.50 per premium portion	$10.90
Plate	+$1.50 per premium portion	$12.00
Bigger Plate	+$1.50 per premium portion	$13.60+

Sides, appetizers, and “something extra” add-ons

A few simple add-ons make it easy to tailor your order to the moment. Pick a side that matches the entrée and your appetite. Small swaps often change calories and texture more than you expect.

Classic sides to choose

Chow mein and Fried Rice lean richer and add chew. White Steamed Rice keeps flavors simple. Super Greens is the lightest base and cuts calories fast.

Side	Calories
White Steamed Rice	520
Fried Rice	620
Chow Mein	600
Super Greens	130

Appetizers that make sharing easy

Chicken Egg Roll, Veggie Spring Roll, and Cream Cheese Rangoon are crisp crowd-pleasers. They work well as starters or extra bites for a group order.

Appetizer	Price	Calories
Veggie Spring Roll	$2.10+	150
Chicken Egg Roll	$2.30+	200
Cream Cheese Rangoon	$2.40+	190

Practical sauce and mix‑and‑match tips

Pair a sweet entrée (like sesame chicken or honey-style items) with plain rice to avoid an overly sweet plate.
Soy-based sauces and ginger-soy read lighter and savory. Use soy sauce or soy packets to ground bold flavors.
Mandarin sauce brightens grilled teriyaki chicken and balances spicy choices.
Mix one spicy entrée with one sweet entrée, then pick a cooling side (rice) or a crunchy base (super greens).
Delivery tip: always check the order notes for sauce packets and utensils so your meal arrives ready to eat.

Balanced Protein Plates and lighter ways to order

Balanced Protein Plates make it easy to order a higher‑protein, lower‑calorie meal without fuss. They start at $10.90 and aim to give solid macros without heavy carbs.

Plate lineup and purpose

Double Protein Plate (875 Cal, 76g protein) adds extra protein for bigger appetites.

Harmonious Macros Plate (555 Cal, 57g protein) balances macros for steady energy.

Bold and Flavorful Plate (450 Cal, 45g protein) keeps taste high and calories lower.

Power Packed Plate (280 Cal, 43g protein) is the lightest choice. Protein & Fiber Plate (690 Cal, 38g protein, 14g fiber) adds bulk via fiber.

How they compare

Item	Calories	Protein (g)	Price
Double Protein Plate	875	76	$10.90
Harmonious Macros Plate	555	57	$10.90
Power Packed Plate	280	43	$10.90

Simple swaps and portions strategy

Choose Super Greens (130 Cal) as your side to cut totals without losing comfort food feel.

Keep sweet sauces light and add an extra protein only when you need more fuel. Mix a veggie entrée to boost fiber.

These plates let you enjoy delicious panda express choices while tracking nutrition in an easy way. Availability may vary, so check express menu items at your local outlet before ordering.

Drinks and Panda Crafted Beverages to pair with your meal

Choosing the right drink can cut through sweet sauces or cool a spicy bite. Pick a beverage that balances flavor and calories. Drinks are easy add-ons when you place an order or grab takeout.

Panda Crafted Beverages — bright, fruity choices

Mango Guava Tea — tropical tea, ~195–200 Cal, starts at $3.40+
Peach Lychee Refresher — light and floral, ~195–200 Cal, $3.40+
Pomegranate Pineapple Lemonade — tangy, ~220–240 Cal, $3.40+
Watermelon Mango Refresher — fruity and crisp, ~210–240 Cal, $3.40+

Classic fountain and bottled picks

Classic sodas and waters stay reliable. Typical options: Coca‑Cola (240 Cal, $2.30+), Sprite (230 Cal, $2.30+), Dr Pepper (240 Cal, $2.30+). Bottled water like Dasani (0 Cal, $2.30+) or Smartwater (0 Cal, $3.10+) and sports drinks round out choices.

Type	Calories	Typical price
Crafted beverage	195–240	$3.40+
Coca‑Cola / Sprite / Dr Pepper	230–240	$2.30+
Bottled water	0	$2.30–$3.10
Sports drinks	varies	$2.50+

Quick pairing tips: choose a tart or tea-based drink with sweet items. Pick water or a simple fountain soda with spicy entrées. For takeout panda express orders, add drinks when you schedule pickup to save time. Families can lower total calories by choosing water or diet sodas for kids and richer crafted drinks for adults.

Best value for groups: Panda Bundles, Family Meal, and catering trays

Feeding a crowd is easier when you match portion sizes to the group and pick a few crowd-pleasing staples.

Panda Bundles and what they include

Panda bundles pair one Bowl, Plate, or Bigger Plate with a medium fountain drink. They simplify takeout panda runs and can save money versus adding drinks later.

Quick prices: Bowl Bundle $11.20 (280–1130 Cal), Plate Bundle $12.80 (430–1640 Cal), Bigger Plate Bundle $14.40 (580–2150 Cal).

The Five Person Family Meal

This person family option starts at $40.00+. It includes 3 large entrées and 2 large sides. It’s the easy weeknight solution for five people.

Best combos: orange chicken plus fried rice or chow mein, and add super greens to keep balance on the table.

Catering and party bundles

Party Size Sides start at $17.00+ (serves 10–12). Party Size Entrées start at $42.00+ (serves 12–14). Appetizers & desserts run about $35.00+.

Bundle pricing by headcount: 12–16 people $112.00 (2 entrées + 2 sides), 18–22 people $159.00 (3 entrées + 3 sides), 26–30 people $201.00 (4 entrées + 4 sides).

Option	Serves	Includes	Starting price
Bowl Bundle	1 person	Bowl + medium drink	$11.20
Plate Bundle	1 person	Plate + medium drink	$12.80
Bigger Plate Bundle	1–2 people	Bigger Plate + medium drink	$14.40
Five Person Family Meal	5 people	3 large entrées + 2 large sides	$40.00+

Kids’ picks and practical ordering tips

Panda Cub Meal™ starts at $7.20 and includes a Jr. entrée, Jr. side, fruit, and bottled drink. Popular Jr. entrées: orange chicken, teriyaki chicken, broccoli beef (300–740 Cal depending on build‑your‑own).

Mix one mild crowd-pleaser like orange chicken and one veggie-forward entrée for variety.
For takeout panda orders, choose at least one noodle or fried rice side to feel full, and add super greens to keep the spread lighter.

Ready to order Panda Express your way (dine-in, takeout, or delivery)

How you order matters: dine-in keeps heat and crunch, pickup gives control, delivery adds convenience. Choose based on time and how you want the food to arrive.

Expect delivery time to vary. Breaded items can soften and portions may feel smaller than in-restaurant servings. Ask for sauces and utensils in the notes to avoid missing extras.

Freshness strategy: for the best pancake-style crisp on panda express orange, pick dine-in or pickup. If delivery is the only option, choose less breaded entrées and request sauces on the side.

Quick checklist before you submit your order: confirm sauces, utensils, correct items, and any kids’ meals. If portions worry you, pick a Bigger Plate or a Family Meal.

Final decision path: pick a format (Bowl, Plate, Bigger Plate, or bundle), add one comfort favorite like panda express orange, then balance with a savory or veggie side. Order with confidence and enjoy your meal.

FAQ

What’s new on the Panda Express menu in 2026?

New seasonal items and limited-time flavor twists often appear each year. Expect updated beverages, a few seasonal entrées with unique sauces, and occasional plant-forward sides. Availability varies by location and time of year.

How do average prices differ in-store versus online or delivery?

In-store prices tend to be the baseline. Online ordering and third-party delivery typically add service fees, delivery charges, and sometimes slightly higher menu prices. Taxes also vary by method and location.

What should I expect in the quick price & calorie snapshot for standard meal sizes?

Bowls are the smallest and usually have the lowest starting price and calories. Plates add a second entrée and cost more. Bigger Plates include three entrées and a higher price point and calorie total. Family Meals and catering scale per serving. Kids’ meals are lower in calories and price.

What is included in a Bowl and what are typical price and calorie ranges?

A Bowl includes one entrée and one side. Prices start at the lower end of the menu and calories can range from light (about 300–500) for Wok Smart choices up to higher counts for saucier entrées. Premium items may add an upcharge.

What comes with a Plate and how do calories compare to a Bowl?

A Plate offers two entrées and one side. It costs more than a Bowl and typically adds 200–500 calories depending on entrées chosen and portions. Premium entrées may increase price and calories further.

What is a Bigger Plate and who should order it?

A Bigger Plate includes three entrées and one side. It’s best for larger appetites or if you want variety. Calories and price are higher; this size is popular for sharing or very hungry guests.

How does build-your-own work for entrées, sides, and sauces?

You choose entrées and a side for your meal size. Sauces typically come with entrées but some locations let you add dipping sauces like soy or ginger-soy. Premium entrées may carry an upcharge in Bowl, Plate, and Bigger Plate builds.

Why is the Original Orange Chicken so popular?

It pairs a crispy exterior with a sweet-tangy orange glaze. The familiar flavor and crunchy texture make it a comfort classic. It’s a common favorite across ages and a reliable choice for first-time guests.

What makes Kung Pao Chicken stand out?

Kung Pao blends moderate heat with vegetables and roasted peanuts for texture. It’s a saucier, spicier option that balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes and adds crunch from the peanuts.

How does Honey Sesame Chicken Breast differ from other chicken dishes?

Honey Sesame Chicken Breast uses white-meat chicken in a sweet-savory glaze with a slightly sticky finish and sesame notes. It’s milder than spicy options and tends to appeal to guests who want a sweeter profile with leaner protein.

Which entrées are lighter or Wok Smart-style options?

Broccoli Beef and Mushroom Chicken are examples of lighter choices. They often feature savory sauces with more vegetables and lower calories than heavily battered or sweet-sauced entrées.

When should I consider upgrading to a premium entrée?

Upgrade when you want a special protein like Honey Walnut Shrimp or Black Pepper Sirloin Steak. Premium items cost more but offer distinct textures and flavors that can be worth the upcharge for special meals or sharing.

What is the flavor profile of Honey Walnut Shrimp and how is it priced?

Honey Walnut Shrimp is sweet and creamy with glazed candied walnuts and tender shrimp. It’s a premium item with a higher price than standard entrées and often carries an upcharge in smaller meal sizes.

How do premium upcharges work for Bowl, Plate, and Bigger Plate orders?

When you select a premium entrée in a Bowl, Plate, or Bigger Plate, an extra fee is added to the base price. The upcharge varies by location and the specific premium item chosen.

What classic sides are available and how do they compare?

Common sides include Chow Mein, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, and Super Greens. Fried Rice is heartier and higher in calories. Chow Mein is noodle-based and comforting. Super Greens offers a lower-calorie, vegetable-forward choice.

What appetizers can I add to my order?

Typical appetizers include the Chicken Egg Roll, Veggie Spring Roll, and Cream Cheese Rangoon. Availability may vary by location.

Which sauces are offered and how do they improve combos?

Sauces range from soy and ginger-soy to Mandarin-style glazes. Sauces let you tweak flavor intensity. Choosing lighter sauces or using them sparingly can reduce calories while retaining taste.

What are Balanced Protein Plates and how are they different?

Balanced Protein Plates combine higher-protein entrées with vegetables and controlled portions. They focus on macronutrient balance for guests seeking more protein and fewer empty calories.

What calorie and protein ranges should I expect from high-protein, lower-calorie options?

These plates typically deliver moderate calories with increased protein—often in the 300–600 calorie range depending on choices, and higher protein counts compared with saucier entrées.

What simple swaps will cut calories without losing satisfaction?

Swap Fried Rice for Super Greens or Steamed Rice, choose grilled or Wok Smart entrées, and ask for sauces on the side. Smaller portions and sharing a Bigger Plate can also reduce per-person calories.

What specialty beverages are available to pair with a meal?

Specialty crafted drinks include fruit-forward teas and refreshers like Mango Guava Tea, Peach Lychee Refresher, and Pomegranate Pineapple Lemonade. Selection varies by store.

Are classic fountain and bottled drinks offered?

Yes. Most locations carry Coca-Cola fountain options, Sprite, Dr Pepper, bottled water, and some sports drinks. Availability depends on the restaurant.

What are the best value options for groups and events?

Bundles, Family Meals, and catering trays offer the best per-person value. They combine multiple entrées, sides, and sometimes appetizers to feed groups affordably.

What’s included in common bundle types like Bowl, Plate, and Bigger Plate Bundles?

Bundles typically mirror individual meal builds at scale: a set number of entrées and sides sized to serve multiple people. Exact items and portions depend on the chosen bundle package.

How many servings come in a Five Person Family Meal and what should I pick?

A Five Person Family Meal is portioned to serve about five adults. Choose a mix of popular entrées and a balance of sides—mix a saucy favorite with a vegetable side to please most tastes.

What catering options are available for larger events?

Catering menus include Party Size Sides and Party Size Entrées, plus appetizers and desserts. You can typically order trays sized for medium to large groups; pricing and items vary by location.

Are there kids’ meal choices and what do they include?

Kids’ options include smaller entrées and sides designed for younger appetites. Meals often come with a drink and a smaller portion of a popular entrée and side.

Can I dine in, take out, or have my order delivered?

Yes. Most locations offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery through the restaurant’s website or third-party apps. Service availability and fees differ by location and time.