Panda Express Gluten Free Menu Options
Panda Express is a favorite fast-casual spot in the U.S. It started in 1983 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng. The chain is based in Rosemead, California. It’s famous for dishes like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken.
For those with gluten sensitivities, knowing the Panda Express gluten free menu is key. This guide shows the gluten free choices at Panda Express. It helps ensure a safe and fun dining experience for those with dietary restrictions.
Even though many items have gluten, Panda Express has several gluten-free options. These are for those who need them.
Panda Express History
Panda Express started in October 1983 in Glendale, California. Andrew and Peggy Cherng founded it. They focused on Americanized Chinese cuisine, blending flavors for American tastes.
Their headquarters moved to Rosemead, California. There, they keep innovating and growing their menu.
One of their early hits was Orange Chicken. Chef Andy Kao helped create it. It’s a favorite and shows the heart of Panda Express.
Their goal is to offer tasty Chinese-inspired meals in a relaxed setting. They aim to make these meals affordable for everyone.
Understanding Gluten Free Options at Panda Express
For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, knowing what’s gluten-free at Panda Express is key. The restaurant offers many gluten-sensitive options. This makes it easier for people to find safe food choices.
Panda Express has dishes that are naturally gluten-free. These include white and brown steamed rice and apple crisps. These are great for quick, gluten-free meals. But, it’s important to remember that cross-contamination can happen.
All dishes at Panda Express are made in a shared kitchen. This increases the risk of gluten exposure. Even though there are more gluten-free options, customers need to be careful. Knowing which dishes have gluten is essential for a safe and enjoyable meal.
What Qualifies as Gluten Free at Panda Express
At Panda Express, gluten-free items don’t include wheat or gluten ingredients. Grilled proteins and vegetable dishes are often gluten-free. Options like Steamed White Rice, Sweet and Sour Sauce, and Chili Sauce are available for a gluten-free meal.
It’s important to know about cross-contamination when eating here. All dishes might have allergens, so it’s key to be careful. To have a gluten-free meal, check the ingredients and ask staff about how food is prepared. Panda Express works hard to offer many gluten-free choices for those with gluten sensitivities.
| Item Name | Gluten Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed White Rice | Gluten-Free | Safe option for gluten-sensitive diners. |
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | May Contain Gluten | Verify preparation method. |
| Sweet and Sour Sauce | Gluten-Free | Flavorful addition to meals. |
| Chili Sauce | Gluten-Free | Great for spicy flavor. |
| Orange Chicken | Contains Gluten | Two gluten-containing ingredients. |
Panda Express Gluten Free Menu
Panda Express does not have a dedicated gluten-free menu. But, they offer natural gluten-free options that fit dietary needs. Grilled chicken, steamed rice, and some vegetable dishes are good choices for those looking for gluten-free options.
Many people don’t know about the gluten-free choices at Panda Express. Some say the only options are white or brown rice. This is a problem because of the risk of cross-contamination, which is a big worry for those with celiac disease.
Talking to the staff at Panda Express can make dining better for those on a gluten-free diet. It’s important to check the ingredient lists often. Menu items can change, and not everyone knows about these changes.
Gluten Free Menu Items at Panda Express
Panda Express has a few gluten-free dishes for those with gluten sensitivities. You can enjoy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, String Bean Chicken Breast, and Mushroom Chicken. These dishes are gluten-free. But, it’s important to tell the staff about your dietary needs to avoid cross-contamination.
Gluten-free options at Panda Express include Brown Steamed Rice, White Steamed Rice, and various sauces. You can also have all drinks. Remember, fortune cookies are not gluten-free because they have wheat and may have other allergens.
Even though Panda Express tries to be gluten-free, people with severe allergies should be careful. Many Asian dishes have gluten. Panda Express offers several gluten-free choices to meet the needs of those looking for gluten-free meals.
| Item Name | Calories | Gluten-Free Status |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | 330 | Yes |
| String Bean Chicken Breast | 190 | Yes |
| Mushroom Chicken | 220 | Yes |
| Brown Steamed Rice | 150 | Yes |
| White Steamed Rice | 160 | Yes |
| Sweet & Sour Sauce | 80 | Yes |
| Chili Sauce | 50 | Yes |
| Hot Mustard | 20 | Yes |
| Plum Sauce | 80 | Yes |
Gluten Free Side Dishes Available
Panda Express offers gluten free side dishes like Steamed White Rice and Brown Steamed Rice. These are great panda express gluten free sides. They are safe for those with dietary restrictions.
These sides are not just safe; they’re also nutritious. Steamed White Rice is perfect for adding flavors. Steamed Brown Rice, on the other hand, is high in fiber. You can choose from small, medium, or large portions, making it easy to share or enjoy alone.
| Item Name | Portion Size | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steamed White Rice | Small | 180 | $2.75 |
| Steamed White Rice | Medium | 360 | $3.50 |
| Steamed Brown Rice | Small | 220 | $2.75 |
| Steamed Brown Rice | Medium | 440 | $3.50 |
| Mixed Vegetables | Small | 80 | $3.25 |
| Mixed Vegetables | Medium | 160 | $4.75 |
Choosing these healthy options supports your dietary needs and balances your meals. These gluten free side dishes panda express are not just safe. They also satisfy your cravings and promote healthier eating.
Popular Gluten Free Entrees and Their Costs
At Panda Express, you can find many gluten free dishes. These are great for those who want tasty and safe meals. Prices for gluten free entrees range from $8.50 to $11.00, making them affordable and high-quality.
The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a favorite, priced between $8.50 and $10.25. It has 360 calories. The String Bean Chicken Breast is another great option, priced from $9.00 to $11.00 with 320 calories. Lastly, the Mushroom Chicken offers tasty flavors for $8.75 to $10.50, with 280 calories.
Dining at Panda Express is a great mix of flavor and value. Knowing about these gluten free dishes can make your meal even better.
| Entree Name | Price Range | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | $8.50 – $10.25 | 360 |
| String Bean Chicken Breast | $9.00 – $11.00 | 320 |
| Mushroom Chicken | $8.75 – $10.50 | 280 |
Cross-Contamination Considerations
Cross-contamination is a big worry for people with gluten sensitivity at Panda Express. Shared cooking areas, tools, and fryers can accidentally expose gluten. This shows how critical it is to talk openly with restaurant staff about gluten-free safety.
It’s key for customers to tell the staff about their gluten sensitivity. They should ask for special preparation to avoid cross-contamination. This way, they can enjoy their meal without worrying about panda express allergens.
For more details, check out the table below. It shows the risk of cross-contamination for different menu items:
| Menu Item | Cross-Contamination Risk |
|---|---|
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | Low Risk |
| Vegetable Spring Rolls | Minimal Risk |
| Chow Mein | Moderate Risk |
Navigating the Panda Express Allergen Menu
The Panda Express allergen menu is key for those with dietary restrictions. It helps customers find safe food choices. With 66.67% of items being gluten-free, it’s easy to find options for gluten sensitivities.
But, it’s important to know that many dishes have wheat and soy. Fried Rice and Hot & Sour Soup might have eggs. The Kung Pao Chicken is the only dish with peanuts. Also, some items labeled as dairy-free might actually have dairy, so it’s vital to check the allergen charts carefully.
Panda Express offers 46.67% of its menu as dairy-free, including vegan options. This shows the brand’s effort to cater to different dietary needs. For those looking for safe choices, the detailed allergen information online is very helpful.
Safe Ordering Tips for Celiac Customers
For those with celiac disease, ordering at Panda Express needs clear talk about dietary needs. It’s important to share your preferences to avoid gluten. This helps keep your meal safe.
Ask for fresh gloves when your food is made. This step helps prevent gluten from getting into your food. Always check the ingredients of each dish to make sure there’s no gluten hidden in them.
Choose gluten-free options like grilled chicken or steamed veggies. These choices are part of a safe dining plan. They let you enjoy tasty meals without worrying about gluten.
Panda Express Gluten Free Sauce Options
Panda Express has many gluten free sauces for those who are gluten sensitive. You can enjoy Sweet and Sour Sauce, Chili Sauce, and Teriyaki Sauce. But, it’s important to check the ingredients as they might change.
Here’s a look at some popular gluten free sauces at Panda Express along with their nutritional details and price ranges:
| Item Name | Calories | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Sauce | 45 | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| Chili Sauce | 30 | $0.75 – $1.25 |
| Teriyaki Sauce | 35 | $0.60 – $1.10 |
| Szechuan Sauce | 35-45 | $0.50 – $1.00 |
Panda Express also offers mustard options like Classic Yellow Mustard, Spicy Brown Mustard, and Honey Mustard. These mustards complement various dishes, making your meal better.
Other safe condiments include Sweet & Sour Sauce, Hot Mustard, and Plum Sauce. Remember, not all items are gluten free. Broccoli Beef and Orange Chicken have breading, so check the ingredients first for a safe meal.
Conclusion
Panda Express has gluten-free options for those looking for safe food choices. They offer a variety of gluten-free items, showing they care about customers with dietary needs. But, it’s important to be careful.
They have gluten-free options like steamed white rice and some sauces. But, there’s a risk of cross-contamination in shared kitchen equipment. People with celiac disease might want to look for other places that are gluten-free.
In short, Panda Express’s gluten-free choices can make your meal better. But, you need to be careful. Enjoy their diverse menu, but always think about your health and safety when you eat.
FAQ
What gluten-free menu options does Panda Express offer?
Panda Express has gluten-free choices like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken and String Bean Chicken Breast. They also offer Mushroom Chicken and gluten-free sides like Steamed White Rice and Mixed Vegetables.
Is there a dedicated gluten-free menu at Panda Express?
No, Panda Express doesn’t have a special gluten-free menu. But, they have gluten-free items. Just make sure there’s no gluten in your food.
How can I avoid cross-contamination when dining at Panda Express?
Tell the staff about your gluten-free needs. Ask them to use fresh gloves and separate utensils for your meal.
Are the sauces at Panda Express gluten-free?
Some sauces, like Sweet and Sour Sauce and Chili Sauce, are gluten-free. But, always check the ingredient list as recipes can change.
Can I find allergen information for Panda Express menu items?
Yes, Panda Express has an allergen menu. It helps you find out about allergens in their dishes. This is important for those with dietary restrictions.
What should I do if I have celiac disease and want to eat at Panda Express?
Choose gluten-free items and check the ingredients. Talk to the staff to make sure your food is prepared safely. This helps avoid gluten exposure.
