Panda Express launches new lineup of nutritionist-approved Balanced Protein Plates: All you need to know about the launch

Panda Express has introduced its new balanced protein plates, designed to cater to diverse dietary preferences while maintaining the flavors of its signature dishes. Created in collaboration with nutritionist Kylie Sakaida, MS, RD, these plates feature a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, offering a nutritionally balanced option for health-conscious diners.

The balanced protein plates draw from the chain’s popular American Chinese menu items, such as Black Pepper Sirloin Steak, Kung Pao Chicken, and Broccoli Beef, paired with sides like Super Greens and rice. These dishes are available exclusively through the Panda Express app and website at participating locations across the United States.

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What are the balanced protein plates?

The 5 different balanced protein plates (Image via Panda Express)

The balanced protein plates are a set of pre-portioned meals curated to provide a blend of protein, carbs, and fiber. With five distinct options, each plate highlights Panda Express’s classic dishes while offering something new for those aiming to meet specific nutritional goals.

The lineup includes:

• Double Protein Plate: Double Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with half white rice and half Super Greens (76g protein).
• Power Packed Plate: Black Pepper Sirloin Steak, Broccoli Beef, and Super Greens (43g protein).
• Bold & Flavorful Plate: Kung Pao Chicken, Black Pepper Sirloin Steak, and Super Greens (45g protein).
• Protein & Fiber Plate: String Bean Chicken Breast, Kung Pao Chicken, and Super Greens (38g protein, 14g fiber).
• Harmonious Macros Plate: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Broccoli Beef, and Super Greens (57g protein).

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How the dishes were developed

The new balanced protein plates were crafted in collaboration with Kylie Sakaida, a registered dietitian and nutritionist. According to Panda Express, the focus was on creating meals that combine high protein content with adequate carbs and fiber, ensuring they are filling while aligning with dietary preferences.

Each dish claims to take inspiration from Panda Express’s most-loved menu items, ensuring that the plates deliver a familiar taste experience while catering to health-conscious diners. The inclusion of Super Greens—a side of broccoli, kale, and cabbage—reportedly enhances the plates with added fiber and nutrients.

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Availability and ordering details

These protein plates are available exclusively through the Panda Express mobile app and website. This means customers must order these dishes online for takeout or delivery. While the chain has not specified whether the plates are a limited-time offering, the lack of a promotional end date suggests they may become a permanent part of the menu.

These new options aim to provide a more nutritionally balanced alternative to Panda Express’s traditional offerings, which often feature heavier sauces and fried items.

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Fan reactions and impact on the menu

Fans express their eagerness on Instagram to try these bowls (Image via Instagram/@nutritionbykylie)

The launch of the balanced protein plates has sparked interest among fans who are looking for healthier meal options without sacrificing flavor. Some customers have praised Panda Express for incorporating more nutritionist-approved dishes into its menu, while others have expressed excitement about having diverse, protein-packed meals conveniently available.

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Panda Express’s balanced protein plates aim to blend popular flavors with a focus on nutritional balance. By partnering with a nutritionist to create these dishes, the chain allows diners to enjoy high-protein, fiber-rich meals while staying mindful of their health goals.

Whether they become a permanent menu item remains to be seen, but for now, these protein plates offer a fresh approach to the chain’s classic menu.