Are you craving something tasty from Panda Express but worried about how it fits into your healthy eating plan? You’re not alone. Many people wonder if fast food can be both delicious and nutritious, especially when it comes to popular options like grilled teriyaki chicken.
Key Takeaways
- Nutritional Value: Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains approximately 300 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 12 grams of total fat, making it a lower-calorie option compared to many fast food meals.
- Health Benefits: This dish is high in lean protein, which supports muscle repair and growth, and includes steamed vegetables that add essential vitamins and minerals.
- Sodium Awareness: The dish has a sodium content of around 590 milligrams. For those monitoring sodium intake, consider pairing it with lower-sodium sides to balance your meal.
- Moderate Sugar Levels: With about 6 grams of added sugars from the teriyaki sauce, it remains a reasonable option compared to other sugary fast food items, but should still be consumed mindfully.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance your meal by adding sides like mixed greens for fiber or opting for brown rice for added nutrients to complement the grilled chicken.
- Dietary Considerations: The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is not gluten-free but is suitable for high-protein diets; however, portion control is recommended for those monitoring calories.
Overview of Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken offers a flavorful option for those seeking a tasty meal. This dish features grilled chicken marinated in a teriyaki sauce and served with steamed rice and vegetables.
Nutritional Information
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken provides essential nutrients while maintaining a relatively low calorie count. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 20 grams |
| Total Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 35 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 570 milligrams |
Ingredients
The primary ingredients of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken include:
- Chicken breast
- Teriyaki sauce
- Sesame seeds
- Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, and zucchini)
- Steamed rice
Health Benefits
Choosing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken delivers some health benefits, such as:
- High protein content aids in muscle building and repair.
- Teriyaki sauce, when used in moderation, provides a savory flavor without excess calories.
- Steamed vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals.
Serving Suggestions
You can enhance your meal experience by pairing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with other menu items:
- Add a side of mixed greens for extra fiber.
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice for more nutrients.
- Include a small serving of chow mein for a diverse flavor profile.
Dietary Considerations
For individuals with dietary restrictions, consider the following:
- The dish is not gluten-free due to teriyaki sauce.
- It’s suitable for those looking for a high-protein meal.
- Use smaller portions if you’re monitoring your calorie intake.
Conclusion
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken can fit into a balanced diet while satisfying your cravings. Understanding its nutritional content helps you make informed choices without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Information
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is not only flavorful but also contains specific nutritional benefits. Here’s a closer look at the details.
Calories and Macronutrients
The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains approximately 300 calories per serving. Breakdown of the macronutrients is as follows:
- Protein: 20 grams
- Total Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 27 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugars: 6 grams
This dish provides a notable protein boost while keeping fats moderate, making it a solid choice for those aiming to maintain muscle or control body weight.
Vitamins and Minerals
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken also offers a range of vitamins and minerals. Key nutrients include:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune function
- Vitamin C: Promotes skin health and immune support
- Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth
- Iron: Important for transporting oxygen in the blood
Incorporating this dish into your meal plan adds not only protein but also beneficial vitamins and minerals, enhancing overall nutrient intake.
Health Benefits
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken offers several health benefits that support a balanced diet while satisfying your taste buds.
Lean Protein Source
Grilled teriyaki chicken provides a significant amount of lean protein, with 20 grams per serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. This protein boost aids with satiety, making you feel full longer. You can incorporate this dish into a post-workout meal for optimal recovery or enjoy it as part of a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Low in Fat
The dish contains only 12 grams of total fat, which is relatively low compared to many other fast food options. This low-fat content can help you meet your dietary goals without compromising flavor. Choosing grilled protein over fried alternatives means fewer unhealthy fats and lesser calories without sacrificing taste. It’s a practical choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious meals.
Considerations and Drawbacks
While Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken offers several health benefits, it’s essential to consider certain drawbacks that could impact your meal choice.
Sodium Content
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains a significant amount of sodium. The dish has approximately 590 milligrams of sodium per serving. High sodium intake can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. If you’re monitoring your sodium consumption, balancing this dish with lower-sodium options is important. Pairing it with fresh vegetables or opting for brown rice can help mitigate the overall sodium intake.
Added Sugars
The teriyaki sauce used in this dish contains added sugars, contributing to its sweet flavor. One serving can have around 6 grams of sugar. While this amount isn’t excessive, it still adds to your daily sugar intake. If you’re watching your sugar levels, consider using a smaller amount of sauce or pairing the chicken with less sugary sides. Keeping an eye on sauces in general can lead to healthier meal choices in the long run.
Comparison with Other Fast Food Options
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken stands out against many fast food choices. It offers a healthier profile than traditional fried options. For instance, comparing it to a classic cheeseburger, which often centers around 300-500 calories and 20-30 grams of fat, the grilled chicken option presents a lighter alternative.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Fast Food Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Total Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | 300 | 20 | 12 | 27 |
| Cheeseburger | 300-500 | 12-25 | 20-30 | 30-40 |
| Fried Chicken Sandwich | 400-700 | 15-25 | 25-35 | 35-45 |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | 350-500 | 25-35 | 10-15 | 30-40 |
Healthier Ingredients
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains lean protein and vegetables, addressing health concerns found in typical fast food meals. Many alternatives, like fried items, tend to be high in unhealthy fats and calories. Opting for grilled dishes, like the chicken at Panda Express, promotes better overall health with a substantial nutrient profile.
Sodium Considerations
Sodium plays a crucial role in fast food diets. The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains approximately 590 milligrams of sodium. This amount is notably lower compared to fried items, which can frequently exceed 1,200 milligrams. Balancing sodium intake throughout the day remains essential, so pairing it with a low-sodium side, like steamed vegetables, can help manage overall levels.
Sugar Content
While teriyaki sauce does contribute around 6 grams of sugar, it falls well below many sugary fast food choices. For example, flavored soft drinks and desserts often contain 30 grams of sugar or more. Monitoring your sugar intake becomes more manageable when you choose dishes like the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.
Summary of Choices
Choosing healthier options among fast food offerings helps maintain your diet. Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken serves as a flavorful, lower-calorie alternative while providing beneficial nutrients and protein. Comparing options helps you make informed decisions that align with your health goals.
Conclusion
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken offers a tasty option that can fit into your healthy eating plan. With its high protein content and lower fat levels, it’s a smart choice when you’re craving fast food.
Just keep an eye on the sodium and sugar levels to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs. By pairing it with veggies or brown rice, you can enhance the meal even more.
Enjoying flavorful meals while making mindful choices is totally possible. So next time you visit Panda Express, consider the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken as a delicious and nutritious option that satisfies both your taste buds and health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nutritional value of Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains 300 calories, 20 grams of protein, 12 grams of total fat, 27 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of sugars. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.
Is the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken a healthy option?
Yes, the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is considered a healthy option due to its high protein content and low fat levels. It’s a flavorful, lean protein choice that fits well into many balanced diets.
How can I make the meal healthier?
You can enhance the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken meal by pairing it with mixed greens or substituting steamed rice with brown rice. This adds more fiber and nutrients to your overall meal.
Does the dish contain gluten?
No, the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is not gluten-free as the teriyaki sauce may contain gluten. It’s important to check with Panda Express for specific dietary restrictions.
What are the sodium levels in this meal?
Each serving of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken has approximately 590 milligrams of sodium. While it’s tasty, be mindful of your overall sodium intake, particularly if you’re watching your blood pressure.
How does it compare to other fast-food options?
Compared to traditional fried fast food, like cheeseburgers and fried chicken, the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken offers a lower calorie and fat profile, making it a healthier choice for fast food.
Can I enjoy this meal while dieting?
Absolutely! The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken can fit into a weight loss or maintenance plan due to its moderate calorie count, high protein, and nutrient-dense ingredients. Balance it with lower-calorie sides for best results.
What are the health benefits of this dish?
The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken serves as a lean protein source, which aids muscle repair and promotes satiety. Its low fat content makes it a good alternative for those conscious about their fat intake.
