String bean chicken Panda Express recipe tastes even better than the original, and it’s healthier too! This quick and easy copycat recipe takes only 20 minutes and features tender chicken breasts, string beans, onions, and a ginger garlic sauce.
My easy one-pot recipe for Panda Express string bean chicken is made with ingredients that are easy to find. It’s great for dinner and healthy lunch boxes! If you like this recipe, check out my black pepper chicken and Panda Express honey walnut shrimp!
Hey there, food fam! If you’re like me, you’ve probably found yourself at Panda Express, staring at the menu, wondering if that String Bean Chicken Breast is gonna wreck your calorie count or be a solid pick. Well, I’m here to break it down for ya with all the deets on the calories in Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast. Spoiler alert: it’s 190 calories per serving. Not too shabby, right? But there’s more to this dish than just a number, so stick with me as we dig into the nitty-gritty, chat about nutrition, and figure out how to enjoy this tasty bite without the guilt trip.
The Big Number: 190 Calories and What It Means
Let’s cut to the chase. A standard serving of String Bean Chicken Breast from Panda Express is about 5 6 ounces—clocks in at 190 calories. That’s straight-up facts no guesswork. Now, is that a lot? Is it a little? Well, if you’re eating on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet, which is what most people do, this dish is less than 10% of your daily intake. We won’t spend a lot of money on it, which is a win in my book.
Breaking Down the Nutrition: What’s in This Dish?
Now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s take a look under the hood of this meal. I made a quick table with the nutrition facts for Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast.
Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 190 | – |
Total Fat | 9g | 14% |
Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
Trans Fat | 0g | – |
Cholesterol | 34mg | 11% |
Sodium | 590mg | 25% |
Total Carbohydrates | 13g | 4% |
Dietary Fiber | 4g | 16% |
Sugars | 4g | – |
Protein | 14g | 28% |
Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your needs might be different, so adjust accordingly.
What do we see? Well, the 9 grams of fat, 2 of which are saturated, isn’t too bad, but it is something to keep an eye on if you’re stacking several dishes. About 24% of the calories come from fat, which makes sense with the chicken and the oil they’re cooking it in. No trans fat, though, which is a big plus. Ain’t nobody got time for that junk.
The protein is solid at 14 grams, giving you a decent 28% of your daily value. That’s awesome if you’re like me and always chasing them gains or just tryna feel full longer. Carbs are low at 13 grams, with 4 grams of fiber to help with digestion—nice little bonus there. But yo, check that sodium: 590 milligrams is a hefty 25% of your daily limit. If you’re watching salt intake (and lots of us should be), this could sneak up on ya.
Oh, and a heads-up for my allergy peeps: this dish got gluten, soy, and wheat in it. So, if you’re sensitive to that stuff, might wanna steer clear or chat with the staff about cross-contamination risks. It don’t have eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, shellfish, or tree nuts, which is good news for some of y’all.
Is 190 Calories “Healthy”? Let’s Talk Real
Now, I ain’t no dietitian, but I’ve been around the block with fast food choices, and I can tell ya that 190 calories for a dish like this feels pretty darn good. A lotta folks out there seem to agree—word on the street is this option gets a thumbs-up for being a lighter pick at Panda Express. Pair that with a high protein hit and some fiber from the beans, and you got a meal that ain’t just empty calories.
But here’s the kicker: that sodium number. At 590mg, it’s a quarter of what you should have in a day. If you’re eatin’ this with other salty sides or got blood pressure concerns, you might wanna balance things out with low-sodium stuff the rest of the day. And while 190 calories ain’t much, it can add up if you’re piling on rice or chowing down on extras like egg rolls. Trust me, I’ve been there—those extras sneak in quick!
On the flip side, if you’re active or just need a quick bite, this dish can fit right into your plan Wanna know how long it takes to burn off them 190 calories? Here’s a rough idea based on average peeps
- Swimming: Around 16-34 minutes (depending how hard you’re goin’).
- Jogging: Bout 17-22 minutes.
- Cycling: Maybe 29-33 minutes.
- Walking: A chill 27-53 minutes.
So, if you’re hustlin’ at the gym or just takin’ the dog for a longer stroll, you can work it off without too much sweat. Literally.
How Does This Stack Up at Panda Express?
Alright, let’s put them calories in Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast up against some other fan faves from their menu. I’m all about making informed picks, so here’s how it compares to other entrees I’ve tried or eyed at the counter:
- Chicken Potsticker: 160 calories – A bit lighter, but smaller portion, ya know?
- Black Pepper Chicken: 280 calories – More hefty, more flavor punch, but more calories too.
- Beijing Beef: 470 calories – Woof, that’s over double our String Bean pal!
- Broccoli Beef: 150 calories – Lighter option if you’re cuttin’ back.
- Asian Chicken: 340 calories – Way more calorie-dense, so watch out.
Seein’ this, I’m thinkin’ the String Bean Chicken Breast is one of the better bets if you’re tryna keep things on the lighter side. It’s got that balance of not-too-high calories with a decent protein punch. Pair it with somethin’ low-cal like steamed veggies instead of fried rice, and you’re golden. Me? I’ve made the mistake of loadin’ up on heavy sides before, and lemme tell ya, it ain’t worth the food coma.
Fitting This Dish Into Your Day
So, you’re sold on grabbin’ this dish, but how do ya make it work with your daily eats? Whether you’re countin’ every calorie or just tryna not overdo it, I got some tips to share from my own trial and error.
- Portion it out: A 5.6-ounce serving is what they base the 190 calories on, but let’s be real—sometimes ya get a lil more or less dependin’ on who’s scoopin’. Eyeball it and don’t be shy to split it if you’re feelin’ full.
- Balance the sodium: With 590mg, you’re hittin’ a big chunk of daily salt. Sip water, skip salty snacks later, and maybe toss some fresh fruit into your day to even things out.
- Pair smart: Go for steamed brown rice (if they got it) or just veggies on the side. Avoid them deep-fried add-ons—yeah, I’m lookin’ at you, egg roll temptation.
- Timing matters: I like eatin’ this kinda meal midday when I’m active, so my body’s burnin’ fuel. Late-night Panda runs? They hit different, and not in a good way for my waistline.
If you’re trackin’ points for stuff like Weight Watchers (I’ve dabbled in that before), this dish racks up about 4-5 points dependin’ on the system. Not bad for a fast-food fix. Just don’t make it an everyday thing unless you’re cool with watchin’ them points pile up.
Why I Keep Comin’ Back to This Dish
Lemme get personal for a sec. I ain’t gonna lie—Panda Express ain’t always my first choice for “healthy” eatin’, but when I’m cravin’ somethin’ quick and flavorful, this String Bean Chicken Breast hits the spot. The chicken’s usually tender, the green beans got that snap, and the sauce? Just enough to keep it interesting without drownin’ everything. Plus, at 190 calories, I don’t feel like I’m cheatin’ on my goals too hard.
I’ve had days where I’m rushin’ between work and errands, and this dish is a lifesaver. It fills me up without weighin’ me down, ya feel me? And knowin’ it’s got 14 grams of protein keeps my gym-bro side happy. Sure, I gotta watch that sodium, but a lil planning goes a long way. I just make sure the rest of my day ain’t a salt fest, and we’re good.
Tips for Enjoyin’ Without the Guilt
If you’re stressin’ bout the calories in Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast, don’t sweat it too much. Here’s how I’ve learned to enjoy it without feelin’ like I gotta run a marathon after:
- Mix up your plate: Don’t just get this entree—add some variety with low-cal sides. Maybe half a portion of rice and a heap of steamed broccoli. Keeps things interestin’ and calorie-friendly.
- Share the love: If you’re dinin’ with a buddy, split the dish. Less calories for you, and you still get the taste. Win-win, fam.
- Homemade hack: Alright, I ain’t no chef, but I’ve tried makin’ a knockoff version at home with less salt and oil. Grab some chicken breast, green beans, and a light soy sauce mix—boom, you got control over them stats.
- Stay active: Even a quick walk after eatin’ can help ya feel less “blah.” I usually take a stroll round the block if I’ve indulged a bit—gets the blood flowin’.
What If You’re Super Strict on Calories?
Now, if you’re one of them folks who’s got a tight calorie leash—maybe you’re preppin’ for a big event or just super disciplined—I hear ya. 190 calories might still feel like a splurge. If that’s the case, here’s my two cents:
- Consider this a “treat” meal and plan your other eats super light. Think salads, broth soups, or just fruits for the day.
- Ask Panda if they can tweak it—sometimes they’ll go easy on the sauce if ya ask nice, which might cut a few calories or sodium.
- Or, heck, just eat half and save the rest for later. I’ve done that plenty when I’m feelin’ strict.
Truth be told, tho, life’s too short to stress every bite. If this dish fits your vibe and macros, roll with it. I’ve learned the hard way that obsessing over every number just sucks the joy outta food.
A Lil More on Panda Express Vibes
Panda Express got a rep for bein’ that go-to spot for quick Chinese-inspired grub. And while it ain’t exactly your grandma’s home cookin’, they do try to offer some lighter options like this String Bean Chicken Breast. I’ve noticed over the years how they’ve got more veggie-forward dishes and stuff that ain’t all fried to heck. Props to ‘em for that.
What I dig bout this particular pick is how it feels like a middle ground. It ain’t the lowest calorie item on the menu, but it sure as heck ain’t the worst. It’s got that savory kick without makin’ me feel like I need a nap right after. Plus, the green beans make me feel like I’m gettin’ some sorta veggie cred, even if it’s fast food.
Wrappin’ It Up: Should You Go For It?
So, where do we land on the calories in Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast? At 190 calories for a 5.6-ounce serving, it’s a solid choice for a fast-food meal that won’t totally derail ya. With 14 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber, it’s got some stayin’ power, but watch out for that 590mg of sodium if you’re keepin’ tabs on salt.
Whether you’re a gym rat, a busy bee, or just someone who loves a good Panda run, this dish can work for ya with a lil planning. Pair it right, watch your portions, and maybe get movin’ after, and you’re set. I’ve had my fair share of meals here, and this one keeps pullin’ me back for its balance of taste and not-too-crazy calories.
Got any fave Panda picks or tricks for keepin’ fast food in check? Drop a comment or lemme know— I’m always down to swap foodie hacks. Til then, eat smart, fam, and don’t let them calories sneak up on ya!
Tips for tender stir-fried chicken breasts
- Thinly slice the chicken (about ⅛-inch thickness)
- Add a little baking soda to help tenderize the meat
- A little starch will help retain the meat juice. This recipe calls for tapioca or arrowroot, but potato starch would also work.
- In a large wok, cast iron sauté pan, or stainless steel sauté pan, sear the meat over medium-high heat.
Panda Express chicken green beans are wonderful on their own or with a bowl of steamed rice. Try my Panda Express super greens, keto lo mein, or Chinese cucumber salad with this string bean chicken recipe for a full takeout experience.
Panda Express’s string bean chicken is better for you than other menu items because it has less sugar and starch. String bean chicken Panda Express calories for 1 serving (5. 6 oz) is 190 calories, with 13g of carbs. This does not include the rice served on the side.
It’s a Chinese stir-fry with chicken, green beans, and yellow onion in a sauce made of garlic and ginger.
The restaurant version of Panda Express string bean chicken nutrition: 1 serving (5.6 oz) of Panda Express chicken with green beans has 190 calories, 13g of carbs, 4g of fiber, and 4g of sugar (source). The homemade version is much healthier and with fewer carbs and sugar.
They are the same. Both of them belong to the same legume family. (source)
Tips for crisp string beans
- Use French petite green beans for crisp and tender texture.
- For better taste and texture, blanch regular green beans in hot water before stir-frying them.
- You can add more vegetables, but not too many. If you do, they will steam instead of being stir-fried.
This is Panda Express green bean chicken is so good, you’ll want to make it again and again! Luckily it’s so easy to vary the recipe so you won’t get tired of it.
- Add some heat by using my garlic chili sauce.
- Adding more vegetables is a good idea. You could try Chinese broccoli or look through my list of Chinese vegetables for more ideas.
- Adding a little of my vegan oyster sauce, which is made with just 5 things, will make it taste even better.
- Add more sugar. My gluten-free hoisin sauce is ready in minutes and works great instead of other sauces.
Panda Express String Bean Chicken – Easy Copycat Recipe!
FAQ
How many calories are in Panda Express string bean chicken breast?
A single serving (5.6 oz) of Panda Express’s String Bean Chicken Breast contains 210 calories.
Is Panda Express String Bean Chicken Breast healthy?
Panda Express’s string bean chicken is better for you than other menu items because it has less sugar and starch. String bean chicken Panda Express calories for 1 serving (5. 6 oz) is 190 calories, with 13g of carbs. This does not include the rice served on the side.
How many calories are in chicken and string beans?
One cup of Stir-fried chicken with green beans is around 235. 3 grams and contains approximately 294. 1 calories, 29. 4 grams of protein, 14. 1 grams of fat, and ….
Is chicken breast and green beans a healthy meal?
In order to stick to my low-calorie diet, I’m trying to eat foods that are low in calories but high in protein. This meal helps me do that. Chicken breast is a good source for protein and low calorie as well. Green beans are a great aid in weight loss!.