The quest for the highest calorie meal at Panda Express leads to a simple, yet calculated formula: choose the largest portion size and fill it with the most energy-dense options. The Panda Express "Bigger Plate" is the largest standard meal, allowing for one side and three entrees. To build the ultimate high-calorie combo, we must first identify the individual menu items with the highest caloric count.
Highest Calorie Sides and Entrees
To construct the maximum calorie meal, selecting the right base and protein is crucial. Based on nutritional information, the most caloric side and entrees stand out:
- Fried Rice (Side): As one of the most calorie-dense sides, fried rice, with its oil and added ingredients, is an obvious choice for a high-calorie base.
- Chow Mein (Side): A close competitor to fried rice, chow mein is also high in calories due to its oil-based preparation.
- The Original Orange Chicken (Entree): This fan-favorite is one of Panda Express's most calorically dense entrees due to its deep-fried nature and sugary sauce.
- Beijing Beef (Entree): This is another high-calorie choice, featuring deep-fried strips of beef with a tangy-sweet sauce.
- Honey Walnut Shrimp (Premium Entree): This premium option packs a significant caloric punch due to the sugary glaze and fried preparation. A premium upcharge may apply.
Building the Ultimate High-Calorie Meal
To construct the highest-calorie possible Bigger Plate, here is the ultimate combination:
- Side: Fried Rice
- Entree 1: The Original Orange Chicken
- Entree 2: Beijing Beef
- Entree 3: Honey Walnut Shrimp (or a second portion of Orange Chicken)
This meal, piled high on a Bigger Plate, will combine multiple fried items and sweet sauces, resulting in a significantly high caloric total. While the exact total can vary slightly depending on portion size and ingredient preparation, this combination aims for the maximum possible count. For an even higher boost, adding appetizers like Cream Cheese Rangoons or a large fountain drink can further increase the total caloric load.
Panda Express High-Calorie Comparison
| Item | Serving Size | Calories (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried Rice (Side) | 1 side | 520-620 | A foundational high-calorie base. |
| Chow Mein (Side) | 1 side | 510-600 | A slightly lower but still energy-dense side option. |
| Original Orange Chicken | 1 entree | 490-510 | A deep-fried, saucy staple. |
| Beijing Beef | 1 entree | 470-480 | Crispy beef in a sweet sauce. |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp | 1 entree | 360-430 | Premium option with a sugary glaze. |
| Broccoli Beef | 1 entree | 150 | One of the lowest-calorie entrees, a stark contrast. |
| Super Greens | 1 side | 90-130 | The lowest-calorie side option. |
Alternatives for Reducing Calories
For those seeking lower-calorie alternatives, Panda Express offers "Wok Smart" options. These are designed to provide a more balanced nutritional profile and are significantly less caloric than the choices for the highest-calorie meal.
- Swap your side: Replace fried rice or chow mein with Super Greens.
- Choose a leaner entree: Opt for entrees like Broccoli Beef or Mushroom Chicken.
- Select a smaller meal: Choose a bowl instead of a bigger plate.
- Skip appetizers and sugary drinks: Avoid items like Cream Cheese Rangoons and sodas.
Strategies for Maximum Calorie Intake
For those deliberately seeking the highest calorie meal, here are some final considerations:
- Double-Up on Entrees: If Honey Walnut Shrimp or Black Pepper Sirloin Steak are unavailable, double up on the Original Orange Chicken, which is consistently high in calories.
- Add Appetizers: Complement your Bigger Plate with a side of Cream Cheese Rangoons to add even more calories from fried food.
- Use the Panda Bundles Option: For a true calorie feast, the Panda Bundles, which can include multiple entrees and sides, combined with a large fountain drink, offer one of the highest possible total calorie counts.
Conclusion
The highest calorie meal at Panda Express is a custom-built "Bigger Plate" featuring Fried Rice as the side, and Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, and Honey Walnut Shrimp as the entrees. The high caloric density comes from the combination of fried items and sweet, sugary sauces. For those with different dietary needs, the menu also offers plenty of healthier, lower-calorie "Wok Smart" alternatives to choose from.
