Is Orange Chicken From Panda Express Gluten Free?

No, Orange Chicken from Panda Express is not gluten-free. The dish contains wheat in both the breading and the sauce, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Is Orange Chicken From Panda Express Gluten Free?

Health Benefits

  • Rich source of protein for muscle building and repair
  • Contains vitamin C from orange ingredients, supporting immune function
  • Provides B vitamins that help with energy metabolism
  • Contains iron which helps with oxygen transport in the blood
  • Provides essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions
  • Offers selenium, an antioxidant mineral that supports thyroid function
  • Contains potassium which helps regulate blood pressure
  • Provides phosphorus for bone health
  • Contains small amounts of zinc which supports immune function
  • Offers a source of quick energy through its carbohydrate content

Who Should Avoid

  • Diabetics
  • People with high blood pressure
  • Those with heart disease
  • Individuals on low-sodium diets
  • People with MSG sensitivity
  • Those watching calorie intake
  • Individuals with soy allergies
  • People with corn allergies
  • Those with shellfish allergies (cross-contamination risk)
  • Individuals with peanut allergies
  • People with digestive disorders
  • Those with high cholesterol

Gluten Free Alternatives

  • Sweet Potato Starch Coating - Made from pure sweet potato, creates a crispy exterior similar to traditional breading. Naturally gluten free and provides a light, crunchy texture.
  • Almond Flour Breading - Crafted from ground almonds, offers a nutty flavor and protein-rich alternative. Provides a golden brown coating when fried or baked.
  • Rice Flour Mix - Combination of white and brown rice flours that creates a crisp, light coating. Neutral in taste and easily absorbs marinades and seasonings.
  • Cassava Flour Breading - Derived from yuca root, produces a crispy texture similar to wheat flour. Grain free and provides a neutral flavor profile for chicken dishes.
  • Cornstarch Coating - Pure cornstarch creates an ultra-crispy exterior when used as a breading. Lightweight, neutral in flavor, and naturally gluten free with excellent binding properties.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free?

No, Panda Express Orange Chicken is not gluten-free as it contains wheat flour in the breading.

Do they use a separate fryer for gluten-free items?

Yes, we have a dedicated fryer for gluten-free items to prevent cross-contamination. We take food allergies very seriously and maintain strict protocols to keep our gluten-free items separate.

What ingredients in the orange sauce might contain hidden gluten?

Soy sauce and thickeners like modified food starch typically contain gluten. Seasonings and flavor enhancers in the sauce may also have hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I bring my own gluten-free soy sauce to mix with their Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can bring your own gluten-free soy sauce to mix with their Orange Chicken. Most restaurants allow customers to bring condiments for dietary needs.

Have they ever considered making a gluten-free version of their Orange Chicken?

Yes, Panda Express tested gluten-free Orange Chicken in select locations in 2021. However, it hasn’t been widely released across their restaurants yet.
Picture of Dr. Anne Verstegen

Dr. Anne Verstegen

Dr. Anne Verstegen specializes in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public health research and management, she focuses on addressing health concerns through dietary approaches, gut health optimization, and stress reduction strategies. As Glutenfreeda's professional editor, she reviews all content to ensure accuracy, safety, and alignment with current nutritional science.

We Try Our Best

We understand how important it is to have trustworthy information when managing a gluten-free lifestyle, which is why we carefully source all our content from respected health and nutrition experts. You can find these trusted references listed below: 

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

  2. Coeliac UK

  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

  4. Mayo Clinic

  5. World Health Organization (WHO)

  6. Celiac Disease Foundation

While we’re committed to sharing the most accurate and helpful gluten-free guidance possible, we’re human and sometimes things slip through the cracks.

If something doesn’t look quite right to you or if you have any questions, we’d genuinely appreciate you contacting us. It helps us keep improving and ensures everyone gets the reliable information they deserve.

The information on this site is for educational purposes only and doesn’t replace professional medical advice. If you suspect gluten sensitivity, consult with a healthcare provider before changing your diet.