The Panda Express Red Flag: What to Avoid on Your Next Visit
When you’re craving a quick meal, Panda Express often springs to mind, especially for its enticing orange chicken. But beneath the allure of their famous dishes lies a warning: there’s one item that former employees suggest you should never order. You might be surprised to learn that it’s the beloved orange chicken itself! While it enjoys immense popularity, multiple reasons exist for steering clear of this dish. Let’s explore why and how you can prepare a healthier version right at home.
The Orange Chicken Phenomenon
Orange chicken stands out as Panda Express’s most iconic offering. This sweet and tangy dish features battered and fried chicken pieces, doused in a sugary sauce that’s undeniably delicious. It draws crowds and garners rave reviews from customers. But what many may not realize is that the appeal comes with hidden concerns regarding quality and health.
For starters, the orange chicken served at Panda Express often contains a slew of preservatives and ingredients that may raise eyebrows. Employees have reported that the chicken is sometimes left sitting for extended periods, impacting both freshness and flavor. Additionally, the high sugar content in the sauce, coupled with the batter used during preparation, contributes to its reputation as a less-than-healthy choice. Consuming it regularly may lead to unwanted weight gain and other health issues over time.
The Health Impact
Not only does orange chicken taste great, but it also packs a punch when it comes to calories and sodium. A single serving typically contains around 300 calories, but when combined with a side of fried rice or chow mein, the total rises significantly. Dishing out over half a day’s worth of sodium, the meal becomes far less appealing from a nutritional standpoint.
If you’re mindful of your dietary habits, this high-calorie dish can easily sabotage your efforts to maintain a balanced diet. Moreover, the extensive frying process means that the chicken is loaded with unhealthy fats. When you consider these factors, the allure of orange chicken diminishes and points towards a more health-conscious option.
A Homemade Alternative
The good news for devoted fans of orange chicken is that whipping up a healthier version at home is relatively simple. By using lean chicken breast and a variety of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor while cutting down on calories and sodium.
Here’s a quick recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Cornstarch (for coating)
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey in a bowl. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Coat the marinated chicken pieces with a light dusting of cornstarch.
- Cook: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chicken until fully cooked, then pour in the remaining marinade and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Enjoy it over steamed rice or a bed of veggies for a nutritious twist!
This recipe not only enhances the health factor but also gives you control over the ingredients. Plus, it tends to taste even better when you make it yourself!
Think Before You Order
When you drop by Panda Express, weigh your options carefully before placing your order. While the fast food chain boasts a variety of tempting dishes, the orange chicken isn’t deserving of your trust. Instead, consider trying their mixed greens or other protein-packed, less-processed options. Your body will thank you for it!
Though the garden variety orange chicken may be a sweet treat that many adore, it certainly comes with risks that beg for reconsideration. So, next time you’re pondering your meal choice, remember the insights shared by former employees and steer clear of this well-known dish. And if you’re ever in the mood for something just as flavorful yet healthier, your kitchen awaits!
