Panda Express Chow Mein: Price, Calories & Nutrition
Ask most people what side they get at Panda Express and Chow Mein is the answer. Stir-fried wheat noodles with onions, celery, and cabbage, it’s the default pairing for a reason, though at 600 calories a serving, it’s also the heaviest side on the menu by a wide margin.
| Nutrient | Amount (per 11oz serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrate | 94g |
| Protein | 15g |
How It Compares to the Other Sides
Chow Mein and Fried Rice sit close together on calories, 600 versus 620, and both dwarf Super Greens at just 130. If you’re building a lighter Bowl, swapping Chow Mein for Super Greens is the single biggest calorie cut you can make without changing your entrée at all.
Allergens
Contains sesame, soybeans, and wheat. The noodles themselves are wheat-based, so this isn’t an option for a gluten-free order regardless of which entrée you pair it with.
Cost
- Included in any Bowl, Plate, or Bigger Plate at no extra charge, as either your one side or half of a two-side order.
- Ordered à la carte, sides start around $4.75+.
Making It Work in a Lighter Meal
Chow Mein isn’t off-limits if you’re watching calories, but it pushes the total higher fast when paired with a heavier entrée like Orange Chicken or Beijing Beef. Pairing it instead with a Wok Smart entrée like Broccoli Beef or String Bean Chicken Breast keeps the total meal more reasonable while still getting the noodle side you actually want.
Chow Mein FAQ
Why is Chow Mein so high in calories?
The noodles are the main driver, since they’re a dense wheat noodle stir-fried in oil rather than a lighter vegetable-based side like Super Greens.
Can I get Chow Mein and Fried Rice together as my side?
Yes, most combos allow you to split your side portion between two options, so half Chow Mein and half Fried Rice is a common request.
Is Chow Mein vegetarian?
The noodles themselves don’t contain meat, but check with your store on preparation, since shared cooking surfaces can affect this depending on how strict your dietary needs are.
Does Chow Mein cost extra as a side?
No, it’s included in any combo at no additional charge, the same as Fried Rice, steamed rice, or Super Greens.
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