What To Know
- Chow mein, a delectable Chinese noodle dish, is a popular menu item at Panda Express.
- The calorie count for a Large Chow Mein with Chicken is 640 calories.
- To order a healthier chow mein, choose the Small size, ask for half-sauce, select lean protein like chicken or shrimp, add extra vegetables, and avoid high-calorie toppings.
Chow mein, a delectable Chinese noodle dish, is a popular menu item at Panda Express. However, if you’re watching your calorie intake, you may wonder, “How many calories does chow mein from Panda Express have?” This blog post will delve into the calorie content of this dish and provide valuable tips for making healthier choices.
Calorie Breakdown of Chow Mein from Panda Express
- Large (20 oz): 640 calories
- Regular (14 oz): 440 calories
- Small (8 oz): 290 calories
It’s important to note that these calorie counts do not include any additional sauces or toppings.
Factors Affecting Calorie Content
Several factors can affect the calorie content of chow mein from Panda Express:
- Portion Size: As mentioned earlier, the larger the portion, the higher the calories.
- Ingredients: Chow mein typically contains noodles, vegetables, and protein. The type of protein used (chicken, beef, or shrimp) can influence the calorie count.
- Sauce: The sauce used to flavor the chow mein can add significant calories.
- Toppings: Toppings such as crispy wontons or extra vegetables can increase the calorie count.
Healthier Options at Panda Express
If you’re looking for a healthier chow mein option, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Small Size: Opt for the 8 oz portion to reduce calorie intake.
- Ask for Half-Sauce: Request half the regular amount of sauce to minimize calorie consumption.
- Choose Lean Protein: Select chicken or shrimp as your protein source, as they are lower in calories than beef.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Request additional vegetables to boost fiber and nutrient content while keeping calories low.
- Avoid Toppings: Skip crispy wontons or other high-calorie toppings.
Calorie Comparison with Other Menu Items
Compared to other menu items at Panda Express, chow mein falls within a moderate calorie range:
- Orange Chicken (Large): 810 calories
- Kung Pao Chicken (Large): 760 calories
- Broccoli Beef (Large): 670 calories
- Fried Rice (Large): 600 calories
Making Smart Choices
To make smart choices when ordering chow mein from Panda Express, consider the following:
- Read the Nutritional Information: Check the Panda Express website or in-store menu for calorie counts and other nutritional information.
- Plan Ahead: If you’re trying to limit calories, plan your meal and make healthier choices to stay within your calorie goals.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your hunger cues and stop eating when you feel satisfied.
Calorie-Saving Tips
Here are some additional tips for saving calories when eating chow mein from Panda Express:
- Share Your Meal: Split a large portion with a friend or family member.
- Take Half Home: Save half of your meal for later to avoid overeating.
- Avoid Sugary Drinks: Opt for water or unsweetened tea instead of sugary beverages like soda.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the calorie count of the Panda Express Chow Mein with Chicken?
A: The calorie count for a Large Chow Mein with Chicken is 640 calories.
Q: Does the calorie count include the sauce?
A: No, the calorie counts provided do not include any additional sauces or toppings.
Q: What is the healthiest way to order chow mein from Panda Express?
A: To order a healthier chow mein, choose the Small size, ask for half-sauce, select lean protein like chicken or shrimp, add extra vegetables, and avoid high-calorie toppings.
