Is Panda Express Orange Chicken Gluten-free? We Have the Answer! - Little Helpers

TL;DR

Panda Express Orange Chicken is not gluten-free in its standard form. The chicken is typically breaded with wheat flour and the sauce may contain gluten-containing ingredients as well.

Quick Tips

1
Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2
Vitamin C: The orange sauce may contain some vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

3
B vitamins: Chicken contains various B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism.

# In This Article

3 sections

Quick navigation to each section of this article:

1 Benefits of Panda Express Orange Chicken

Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

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2 Who should avoid Panda Express Orange Chicken

People with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, as the dish contains wheat-based ingredients

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3 Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Panda Express Orange Chicken, along with short descriptions:

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Benefits of Panda Express Orange Chicken

Benefits of Panda Express Orange Chicken
Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Vitamin C: The orange sauce may contain some vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
B vitamins: Chicken contains various B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism.
Selenium: Chicken is a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that supports thyroid function.
Iron: Chicken provides some iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.
Zinc: Chicken contains zinc, which is important for immune function and wound healing.
Potential mood boost: As a comfort food, it may provide temporary psychological benefits for some people.It’s important to note that these benefits are offset by the dish’s high calorie, fat, and sodium content. The breading and sweet sauce also add refined carbohydrates and sugar. For a healthier option, consider grilled chicken with vegetables and a lighter sauce.

Who should avoid Panda Express Orange Chicken

Who should avoid Panda Express Orange Chicken
People with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, as the dish contains wheat-based ingredients
Individuals with soy allergies, as soy sauce is used in the recipe
Those with corn allergies, as corn starch is often used as a thickener
People following a low-sodium diet, as the dish is typically high in sodium
Individuals on a low-fat or low-calorie diet, due to the dish’s relatively high fat and calorie content
Vegans and vegetarians, as the dish contains chicken
Those with MSG sensitivity, as some Panda Express locations may use MSG in their cooking
Individuals with nut allergies, as there may be cross-contamination risks in the kitchen
People with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar, due to the high sugar content in the orange sauce
Those following a strictly kosher or halal diet, as the chicken may not be prepared according to these dietary laws
Individuals with egg allergies, as egg is sometimes used in the batterRemember that this list is general, and individual dietary needs may vary. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or check the restaurant’s allergen information for specific concerns.

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Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Panda Express Orange Chicken, along with short descriptions:

Gluten Free Alternatives
Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken (Gluten-Free Version)- A frozen, ready-to-cook option that offers a gluten-free breading and tangy orange sauce. It's a convenient alternative that can be prepared at home.
Lean Cuisine Orange Chicken (Gluten-Free)- A microwaveable meal option that features gluten-free breaded chicken in an orange sauce with rice. It's a quick and easy alternative for those seeking a convenient option.
Feel Good Foods Gluten-Free Orange Chicken- A frozen, gluten-free option that uses antibiotic-free chicken and a crispy rice flour coating. The sauce is made with real orange juice for an authentic flavor.
Ling Ling Asian Kitchen Gluten-Free Orange Chicken- A frozen meal kit that includes gluten-free breaded chicken pieces and a separate packet of orange sauce. It allows for customization of sauce intensity and can be prepared in a skillet or microwave.

Health Information

? Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions

1 Is orange chicken breaded at Panda?

Yes, orange chicken at Panda Express is breaded. The chicken pieces are typically coated in a light batter before being fried. This gives the dish its characteristic crispy exterior. The breaded chicken is then tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

2 Does mandarin orange chicken have gluten?

Mandarin orange chicken often contains gluten, but it depends on the specific recipe or brand. The breading used on the chicken typically includes wheat flour, which contains gluten. Additionally, many sauces used in mandarin orange chicken recipes may contain soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients. However, gluten-free versions of this dish can be made using alternative flours and gluten-free sauces.

3 Does panda fried rice have gluten?

Panda fried rice may contain gluten, depending on the specific ingredients and preparation method used. The rice itself is naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce, which is commonly used in fried rice, typically contains wheat and therefore gluten. Additionally, if the fried rice contains any breaded meats or other gluten-containing additives, it would not be gluten-free. To be certain, it's best to check with the specific restaurant or manufacturer about their ingredients and preparation methods.

4 Does Panda teriyaki sauce have gluten?

Panda Express's teriyaki sauce typically contains gluten. The sauce usually includes soy sauce as an ingredient, which is made with wheat. Additionally, other thickeners or additives in the sauce may contain gluten. If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it's best to avoid Panda Express's teriyaki sauce unless specifically labeled gluten-free.

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Our Expert

Drs. Ilse van Asperen

Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor

Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website

Our Sources

The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.

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