The Build Your Own Plate lets you create your ideal meal from Panda Express. It includes 1 side and 2 entrées, giving you full control over flavors, calories, and portion sizes. Depending on your choices, the calories range from 430–1640 per serving.
Price: $10.50+
Add-Ons & Customization
Step 1 – Sides
| Side | Calories |
|---|---|
| White Steamed Rice | 520 |
| Fried Rice | 620 |
| Chow Mein | 600 |
| Super Greens | 130 |
Step 2 – Entrées (Choose 2)
| Entrée | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamite Sweet & Sour Chicken | – | 400 |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp (Premium) | +$1.50 | 430 |
| Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (Premium) | +$1.50 | 180 |
| Mushroom Chicken | – | 220 |
| Kung Pao Chicken | – | 320 |
| String Bean Chicken Breast | – | 210 |
| The Original Orange Chicken | – | 510 |
| Honey Sesame Chicken Breast | – | 340 |
| Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | – | 275 |
| Broccoli Beef | – | 150 |
| Beijing Beef | – | 470 |
| Black Pepper Chicken | – | 280 |
| Super Greens | – | 130 |
Personal Review
I recently tried the Build Your Own Plate with White Rice, Kung Pao Chicken, and Honey Sesame Chicken Breast:
- The rice was fluffy and served as a neutral base.
- Kung Pao Chicken had a savory-spicy flavor with peanuts that added crunch.
- Honey Sesame Chicken offered a sweet, nutty glaze that complemented the spiciness of the Kung Pao Chicken.
- Overall, this plate is filling, customizable, and perfect for lunch or dinner, giving you exactly the flavors and portions you want.
Ingredients (for one Build Your Own Plate with Kung Pao & Honey Sesame Chicken)
| Component | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| White Steamed Rice | White rice, water |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Chicken breast, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, roasted peanuts, green onions, red chili flakes, cornstarch slurry |
| Honey Sesame Chicken Breast | Chicken breast, egg, cornstarch, honey, sesame seeds, garlic, soy sauce |
Step-by-Step Recipe: Build Your Own Plate at Home
- Cook Rice: Steam 1 cup of rice until fluffy.
- Prepare Chicken: Dice chicken for each entrée and lightly coat with cornstarch or egg.
- Cook Kung Pao Chicken: Stir-fry with garlic, ginger, peanuts, chili flakes, green onions, and sauce.
- Cook Honey Sesame Chicken: Fry lightly and coat with honey-sesame glaze.
- Assemble Plate: Place rice on the plate and layer both entrées beside it.
Calorie Breakdown & Energy Equivalent
A typical Build Your Own Plate with:
- White Rice – 520 Cal
- Kung Pao Chicken – 320 Cal
- Honey Sesame Chicken Breast – 340 Cal
Total Calories: 1,180 Cal
Energy Equivalent
| Activity | Duration Approx. |
|---|---|
| Light walking | ~5 hours |
| Jogging | ~2.5 hours |
| Moderate cycling | ~2 hours |
This helps visualize how the meal provides energy for physical activity.
FAQs
1. Can I mix and match sides and entrées?
Yes! The Build Your Own Plate is fully customizable. Premium entrées cost extra.
2. Is it healthy?
Yes, especially if you choose Super Greens and lighter proteins. Avoid fried rice for lower calorie intake.
3. Can I make it at home?
Absolutely! Use the recipes above for both entrées.
4. How long does it take to prepare?
About 30–35 minutes, including rice and stir-frying both entrées.
5. Can I reduce calories further?
Yes — pick Super Greens as the side, choose lighter proteins, and skip sugary sauces.
Final Thoughts
The Build Your Own Plate is perfect for anyone who wants control over flavors and portions. Personally, I enjoyed the Kung Pao Chicken and Honey Sesame Chicken combination with White Rice — a balanced, flavorful, and filling meal. Making it at home is straightforward and provides a full, satisfying meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables.