Panda Express Noodles: Calories, Ingredients, Recipe & Nutrition Guide
Panda Express noodles — also known as Chow Mein — are one of the most ordered side dishes in the US. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of noodles Panda Express uses, how many calories they contain, whether they’re vegan or gluten free, and how to make them at home, this guide covers everything in one place.
What Are Panda Express Noodles?
When people say “noodles at Panda Express,” they’re usually talking about Chow Mein noodles. This is the classic stir-fried noodle side served with most entrée combinations.
Here’s what makes them popular:
- Soft but slightly chewy texture
- Savory garlic-soy flavor
- Mixed with fresh vegetables
- Pairs well with bold sauces like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken
They’re fast, filling, and designed to complement Panda Express’ saucy entrees.
What Kind of Noodles Does Panda Express Use?
Many customers ask: what kind of noodles does Panda Express use?
Panda Express uses:
- Wheat-based chow mein noodles
- Long, thin egg-free noodle strands
- Stir-fried in oil with vegetables and seasoning
These noodles are cooked in a wok-style process that adds light crisp edges while keeping the inside tender.
Important note: Because they are wheat-based, they contain gluten.
Panda Express Noodles Ingredients
The exact recipe is proprietary, but the main ingredients used in Panda Express noodles include:
- Chow mein wheat noodles
- Green cabbage
- Celery
- Onion
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Seasoning blend
This simple combination gives Chow Mein its signature savory and slightly smoky flavor.
Panda Express Noodles Calories & Nutrition
If you’re tracking calories or macros, here’s a realistic breakdown for one standard serving (side portion):
| Nutrition Value | Approx Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 80 g |
| Protein | 13 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
What This Means
- High in carbs → good energy source
- Moderate fat → from stir-fry oil
- Sodium is high → common with restaurant noodles
If you’re watching sodium or calories, portion size matters.
Are Panda Express Noodles Vegan?
Short answer: Mostly yes, but not guaranteed.
The ingredients themselves do not include meat or dairy. However:
- They are cooked on shared woks
- Cross-contact with meat products is possible
So while many vegans eat Panda Express noodles, they are not officially certified vegan due to kitchen practices.
Are Panda Express Noodles Gluten Free?
No. Panda Express noodles are not gluten free.
Reasons:
- Wheat-based noodles
- Soy sauce contains gluten
- Shared cooking equipment
If you’re gluten sensitive, steamed white rice or Super Greens are safer options.
Is Panda Express Noodles Healthy?
It depends on your goals.
Pros
- Filling portion
- Contains vegetables
- Provides quick energy
- Pairs well with protein entrees
Cons
- High sodium
- High refined carbs
- Higher calories than steamed sides
For balance, many people combine noodles with grilled or lighter protein options.
Panda Express Noodles Menu Price
Prices vary by location, but typical Panda Express noodle pricing looks like:
- Side portion: $3 – $4
- Included in Bowl/Plate: Part of combo price
Premium upgrades may cost extra depending on the store.
Panda Express Noodles Copycat Recipe (Easy Home Version)
Want to try a copycat Panda Express noodles recipe at home? Here’s a simplified version.
Ingredients
Chow mein noodles (wheat-based)
Shredded cabbage
Sliced celery
Minced garlic
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Vegetable oil
How to Make Panda Express Noodles
- Boil noodles according to package directions
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok
- Add garlic, cabbage, and celery
- Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes
- Add noodles
- Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil
- Toss until evenly coated
- Cook another 2 minutes and serve
Taste tip:
- Add a splash of oyster-style vegetarian sauce for deeper flavor.
Panda Express Noodles vs Fried Rice
Many customers debate between Chow Mein and Fried Rice. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Chow Mein | Fried Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Higher | Slightly lower |
| Carbs | Higher | Moderate |
| Texture | Soft noodles | Grainy rice |
| Flavor | Savory garlic | Egg & soy flavor |
If you want maximum fullness, noodles win. For lighter meals, rice may be better.
Best Panda Express Combos (Noodles + Entrées)
Some of the most popular pairings include:
Panda Express Noodles and Orange Chicken
The classic sweet-and-savory combo most customers order.
Other Popular Combos
- Noodles + Teriyaki Chicken
- Noodles + Kung Pao Chicken
- Noodles + Broccoli Beef
- Noodles + SweetFire Chicken Breast
These combinations balance protein, carbs, and flavor.
Panda Express Noodles Menu Availability
Chow Mein noodles are available at nearly all Panda Express locations as a standard side option. Occasionally, availability may vary during peak hours or ingredient shortages.
They’re offered with:
- Bowls
- Plates
- Bigger Plates
- Family Meals
FAQs About Panda Express Noodles
Panda Express uses wheat-based chow mein noodles stir-fried with vegetables and seasoning.
A standard serving contains about 510 calories, depending on portion size and preparation.
They contain no meat ingredients but are cooked on shared equipment, so they are not certified vegan.
Yes. You can recreate them using chow mein noodles, cabbage, celery, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
Not necessarily. Chow Mein is usually higher in calories and carbs, while fried rice may contain more fat depending on preparation.
Final Thoughts
Panda Express noodles remain one of the chain’s most popular sides for good reason. They’re flavorful, filling, and pair perfectly with signature entrées like Orange Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken. While they aren’t low-calorie or gluten free, they’re a satisfying option when enjoyed in balanced portions.
If you’re tracking nutrition closely, you may also want to compare Chow Mein with other Panda Express sides and lighter menu choices to build a meal that fits your goals.