Best Keto Dish At Panda Express

Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain known for its American Chinese cuisine. While many of their dishes are delicious, they often contain high amounts of carbohydrates, making it challenging for individuals following a ketogenic diet to find suitable options. However, with a little creativity and knowledge, you can still enjoy a tasty and keto-friendly meal at Panda Express. In this article, we will explore the best keto dish at Panda Express and provide valuable insights for those looking to maintain ketosis while dining at this restaurant.

Understanding the Ketogenic Diet

Before diving into the best keto dish at Panda Express, it’s essential to understand the basics of the ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has gained popularity for its potential health benefits and weight loss effects. The primary goal of the keto diet is to shift the body’s metabolism into a state of ketosis, where it primarily burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.

When following a keto diet, individuals typically limit their carbohydrate intake to around 20-50 grams per day, depending on their specific needs and goals. This restriction on carbohydrates forces the body to enter ketosis, where it produces ketones from fat stores to provide energy.

The Challenges of Finding Keto-Friendly Options at Panda Express

While Panda Express offers a wide variety of dishes, most of them are high in carbohydrates due to the use of ingredients like rice, noodles, and sauces that contain added sugars. This can make it challenging for individuals on a keto diet to find suitable options. However, with a few modifications and careful choices, you can still enjoy a delicious and keto-friendly meal at Panda Express.

Best Keto Dish at Panda Express: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

One of the best keto-friendly options at Panda Express is the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. This dish consists of tender chicken pieces marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce and grilled to perfection. By opting for this dish, you can enjoy a flavorful meal while keeping your carbohydrate intake low.

Here’s why the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a great choice for keto dieters:

• Low in Carbohydrates: The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken contains only 9 grams of net carbs per serving, making it a suitable option for those following a keto diet.
• High in Protein: Protein is an essential macronutrient on the keto diet, and the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken provides a good amount of protein to help you meet your daily requirements.
• Delicious Flavor: The teriyaki sauce adds a burst of flavor to the grilled chicken, making it a satisfying and enjoyable meal option.

Other Keto-Friendly Options at Panda Express

While the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is the best keto dish at Panda Express, there are a few other options that you can consider:

• String Bean Chicken Breast: This dish combines tender chicken breast with fresh string beans, providing a low-carb and protein-rich option.
• Broccoli Beef: Broccoli Beef is another suitable choice for keto dieters, as it contains minimal carbohydrates and offers a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
• Eggplant Tofu: If you’re looking for a vegetarian keto option, the Eggplant Tofu dish at Panda Express can be a great choice. It features eggplant and tofu stir-fried in a flavorful sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I eat rice or noodles on a keto diet?

No, rice and noodles are high in carbohydrates and are not suitable for a keto diet. It’s best to avoid them if you’re trying to maintain ketosis.

2. Are there any keto-friendly sauces at Panda Express?

Most of the sauces at Panda Express contain added sugars and are high in carbohydrates. It’s best to avoid them or ask for sauce on the side so you can control the amount you consume.

3. Can I customize my order at Panda Express to make it keto-friendly?

Absolutely! Panda Express allows customization, so you can request modifications to make your order more keto-friendly. For example, you can ask for extra vegetables instead of rice or noodles.

4. Are there any hidden ingredients in Panda Express dishes that I should be aware of?

While Panda Express provides nutritional information for their dishes, it’s always a good idea to ask about any hidden ingredients or cooking methods that may affect the carbohydrate content. The staff will be happy to assist you.

5. Can I have dessert at Panda Express while on a keto diet?

Most of the desserts at Panda Express are high in sugar and carbohydrates, making them unsuitable for a keto diet. It’s best to skip dessert or opt for a keto-friendly dessert option elsewhere.

6. Can I eat at Panda Express regularly while following a keto diet?

While it’s possible to find keto-friendly options at Panda Express, it’s generally recommended to cook your meals at home to have better control over the ingredients and macronutrient composition. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to eat out, Panda Express can still provide suitable options.

Summary

While Panda Express may not be the most keto-friendly restaurant, there are still options available for those following a ketogenic diet. The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is the best keto dish at Panda Express, offering a delicious and low-carb option. Additionally, the String Bean Chicken Breast, Broccoli Beef, and Eggplant Tofu are other suitable choices for keto dieters. By making informed choices, customizing your order, and being mindful of hidden ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying meal at Panda Express while staying in ketosis.