Panda Express is one of the most popular fast casual restaurants serving American-Chinese food. It is well known for bold flavors, quick service, and a menu that is easy to customize. From mall food courts to standalone locations, Panda Express attracts customers who want a filling meal without long wait times. Signature dishes like The Original Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, and Chow Mein have helped the brand build a loyal following.
This guide explains the Panda Express menu with prices, how the meal system works, and what you can expect when ordering. Prices listed are approximate and may vary by location, city, or delivery service.
Contents
- 1 How Panda Express Meals Work
- 2 Panda Express Bowl Menu & Prices
- 3 Panda Express Plate Menu & Prices
- 4 Bigger Plate Menu & Prices
- 5 Panda Cub Meal (Kids Menu)
- 6 Panda Express Sides & Prices
- 7 Popular Panda Express Entrées (À La Carte)
- 8 Drinks & Extras
- 9 Tips for Ordering at Panda Express
- 10 Final Thoughts
- 11 FAQs:
- 11.1 What is the most popular item at Panda Express?
- 11.2 How much does a Panda Express bowl cost?
- 11.3 What comes in a Panda Express plate?
- 11.4 What is the difference between a plate and a bigger plate?
- 11.5 Does Panda Express have kids meals?
- 11.6 Are Panda Express prices the same everywhere?
- 11.7 Does Panda Express offer healthier options?
How Panda Express Meals Work
Panda Express meals are built around a simple combo system. You choose a base (side) and then add one or more entrées depending on the meal size.
-
Bowl: 1 side + 1 entrée
-
Plate: 1 side + 2 entrées
-
Bigger Plate: 1 side + 3 entrées
-
Panda Cub Meal: Kids meal with smaller portions
This setup makes it easy to mix flavors like sweet, spicy, and savory in one order.
Panda Express Bowl Menu & Prices
A Bowl is ideal for a lighter meal or lunch. It includes one side and one entrée.
| Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Bowl (1 side + 1 entrée) | $8.20 – $10.35 |
| Orange Chicken Bowl | $8.20 |
| Kung Pao Chicken Bowl | $7.90 |
| Broccoli Beef Bowl | $7.80 |
| Mushroom Chicken Bowl | $7.80 |
| String Bean Chicken Breast Bowl | $7.80 |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp Bowl (premium) | $9.50 |
Bowls are popular for customers who want balanced portions without extra food.
Panda Express Plate Menu & Prices
The Plate is the most commonly ordered option. It includes two entrées and one side, offering more variety and value.
| Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Plate (2 entrées + 1 side) | $10.30 – $13.35 |
| Orange Chicken Plate | $10.30 – $13.35 |
| Beijing Beef Plate | $10.00 – $13.35 |
| Kung Pao Chicken Plate | $9.90 – $13.35 |
| Black Pepper Chicken Plate | $9.90 – $13.35 |
| Broccoli Beef Plate | $9.80 – $13.35 |
Many customers choose one classic entrée and one lighter option for balance.
Bigger Plate Menu & Prices
The Bigger Plate is best for large appetites or sharing. It includes three entrées and one side.
| Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Bigger Plate (3 entrées + 1 side) | $11.70 – $14.65 |
| Bigger Plate with premium entrée | $12.40 – $14.65 |
This option offers the most variety and is popular with frequent Panda Express customers.
Panda Cub Meal (Kids Menu)
Panda Express offers Panda Cub Meals designed for children. These meals include a smaller entrée portion, a junior side, fruit, and a drink.
| Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Panda Cub Meal | $8.40 – $9.15 |
Parents often choose Orange Chicken or Teriyaki Chicken for kids.
Panda Express Sides & Prices
Sides are an important part of the Panda Express menu and can be ordered separately or as part of a combo.
| Side | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Chow Mein | $3.15 – $5.55 |
| Fried Rice | $3.15 – $5.55 |
| White Steamed Rice | $2.15 – $5.55 |
| Brown Steamed Rice | $2.15 – $5.55 |
| Super Greens (mixed vegetables) | $3.15 – $5.55 |
Half-and-half side options are often available at many locations.
Popular Panda Express Entrées (À La Carte)
Entrées can also be ordered individually. Prices depend on whether the item is standard or premium.
| Entrée | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| The Original Orange Chicken | $6.15 – $8.70 |
| Beijing Beef | $6.15 – $8.00 |
| Kung Pao Chicken | $6.15 – $7.90 |
| Broccoli Beef | $6.15 – $7.80 |
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | $6.15 – $7.80 |
| Mushroom Chicken | $6.15 – $7.80 |
| Black Pepper Chicken | $6.15 – $7.80 |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp (premium) | $7.70 – $9.50 |
Premium entrées usually add a small extra cost to combo meals.
Drinks & Extras
Panda Express also offers drinks and add-ons to complete your meal.
| Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Fountain Drink | $3.00 – $3.50 |
| Lemonade or Iced Tea | $4.00 – $4.10 |
| Bottled Water | $3.85 |
Tips for Ordering at Panda Express
-
Mix spicy and mild entrées for better balance
-
Choose Super Greens for a lighter side
-
Bigger Plates offer the best value per entrée
-
Prices may be higher for delivery than in-store orders
Final Thoughts
The Panda Express menu offers flexibility, bold flavors, and choices for every appetite. Whether you want a quick bowl, a classic plate, or a bigger plate packed with variety, there is something for everyone. While prices may vary by location, this guide gives a clear idea of what to expect when ordering from Panda Express.
FAQs:
What is the most popular item at Panda Express?
The Original Orange Chicken is the most popular item, known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
How much does a Panda Express bowl cost?
A Panda Express bowl usually costs between $8 and $10, depending on the entrée and location.
What comes in a Panda Express plate?
A plate includes one side and two entrées, making it a popular and filling meal option.
What is the difference between a plate and a bigger plate?
A bigger plate includes one side and three entrées, while a regular plate includes only two entrées.
Does Panda Express have kids meals?
Yes, Panda Express offers Panda Cub Meals with smaller portions, fruit, and a drink.
Are Panda Express prices the same everywhere?
No, prices can vary by location, city, and whether you order in-store or for delivery.
Does Panda Express offer healthier options?
Yes, items like Super Greens, Broccoli Beef, and String Bean Chicken are lighter choices.