Panda Express Gluten Free Menu

Key Points:

Panda Express doesn’t offer certified gluten-free meals due to cross-contamination risks from shared cooking surfaces and utensils.
Mildly gluten-intolerant diners may safely enjoy steamed rice, plain vegetables, or grilled meat without sauces or marinades.
Home-cooked Panda-style gluten-free dishes and desserts provide safe, flavorful alternatives using tamari, almond flour, and fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Craving Panda Express but need to eat gluten-free? You’re not alone. Whether you’re managing celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or just trying to cut back on gluten, it’s essential to know what’s safe to order. While Panda Express doesn’t have a dedicated gluten-free menu, you can still enjoy several flavorful items, with the right choices and caution.

Does Panda Express Offer Gluten-Free Options?

Here’s the honest truth: Panda Express does not claim any of its food to be gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination. However, some menu items are made without gluten-containing ingredients. That means you might still enjoy a good meal there with the correct picks if you’re not highly sensitive.

But if you have celiac disease, it’s best to avoid Panda Express entirely. Cross-contact is likely since they use shared cooking surfaces and utensils. If you’re only mildly gluten-intolerant, you can enjoy a few dishes cautiously.

Gluten-Free Style Dishes to Try at Home

Want the bold flavors of Panda Express without the risk? These dishes give you that same sweet, savory, and spicy vibe—but they’re gluten-free. They’re perfect for home cooking or finding safer versions elsewhere.

Pesto Chicken Tenders: Coat chicken tenders with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a crispy texture. Bake them until golden and serve with fresh pesto or dipping sauce.
Gluten-Free Pizza (Asian-Inspired): Make a gluten-free pizza using a rice crust or cauliflower base. Top with sweet chili sauce and fresh veggies for an Asian-inspired flavor twist.
Reuben Casserole (Rice-Based): Layer corned beef, sautéed cabbage, and cheese over cooked rice to skip the bread. This casserole version is hearty and perfect for a gluten-free Reuben experience.
Kung Pao Chicken (Homemade): To keep it gluten-free, make Kung Pao using tamari instead of soy sauce. Skip breading and stir-fry chicken with peanuts, chili peppers, and vegetables for authentic flavor.
Broccoli Beef (Gluten-Free Copycat): For richness, stir-fried tender beef and broccoli with garlic and gluten-free beef broth. This quick dish mimics the classic takeout favorite without gluten.
Firecracker Shrimp (Modified): Toss shrimp in garlic, lime juice, and chili flakes for a spicy kick. Skip the batter to keep it light and gluten-free.
Chicken Fried Rice (Gluten-Free Style): Use day-old rice with scrambled eggs, carrots, peas, and tamari sauce. This gluten-free fried rice tastes just like the original takeout favorite.
Orange Chicken (Homemade): Make a tangy sauce from orange juice, honey, ginger, and gluten-free cornstarch. Coat crispy chicken pieces in the sauce for a sweet and savory meal.

Custom Panda Picks (If You’re Not Highly Sensitive)

Here are some things that may work if your gluten sensitivity is mild. Always talk to staff and ask for plain versions when possible.

Steamed White or Brown Rice: Rice is naturally gluten-free, but always check how it’s cooked and served. Avoid any added sauces or seasoning that might contain gluten.
Grilled Chicken (No Sauce or Marinade): Order plain grilled chicken without sauce or marinade, as many contain wheat. This keeps the chicken safe for a gluten-free meal.
Fresh or Steamed Vegetables: Choose simple steamed vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, or carrots without sauce. Avoid dressings or seasonings that may have hidden gluten ingredients.
Mixed Greens with Olive Oil or Lemon: Ask for mixed greens served plain and use olive oil or lemon as a dressing. If possible, bring your dressing to avoid gluten contamination.
Eggplant Tofu (Modified): Check if the kitchen can prepare eggplant tofu without the usual sauce. Many sauces contain gluten, so a plain or lightly seasoned version is safer.
Super Greens (No Sauce): Enjoy steamed kale, broccoli, and cabbage served without sauce or seasoning. This simple dish is nutritious and naturally gluten-free when served plain.
Teriyaki Chicken (No Sauce): Teriyaki sauce typically contains wheat, so request grilled chicken without sauce instead. This ensures your dish remains gluten-free and still flavorful.
Mushroom Chicken (Modified): It is usually cooked with soy sauce, so ask for mushroom chicken prepared dry without sauce. This avoids gluten while still enjoying the main ingredients.
Black Pepper Angus Steak (No Sauce): Order Black Pepper Angus Steak without sauce to avoid gluten. Confirm with staff if they can serve it plain or with gluten-free seasoning.

Inspired Gluten-Free Recipes and Substitutes

Love the flavors of Panda Express? Try these at home with gluten-free swaps.

Greek Chicken Meatballs: These meatballs are made with fresh lemon, herbs, and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a flavorful, moist bite. They are perfectly served alongside a simple salad or roasted veggies.
Cilantro Lime Chicken: Bright and tangy chicken marinated with cilantro and lime is great paired with rice or roasted vegetables. This fresh, zesty dish is naturally gluten-free.
Shrimp Quinoa Salad: This light and refreshing salad is packed with protein from shrimp and quinoa. Tossed with fresh veggies and a citrus dressing, it’s a healthy meal.
Spring Minestrone Verde: Loaded with vibrant green vegetables and simmered in gluten-free broth. This comforting soup is both nourishing and full of fresh spring flavors.
Sweet Potato Stir-Fry: This savory stir-fry features thinly sliced sweet potatoes and colorful veggies. It is quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and has plenty of texture and taste.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Ground chicken cooked with tamari and garlic is served in crisp lettuce leaves. This tasty, handheld meal is light and gluten-free.
Orange Cauliflower (Gluten-Free): Crispy roasted cauliflower tossed in a homemade, tangy orange sauce is a perfect gluten-free appetizer or side dish with a sweet and savory kick.
Sesame Zoodles: These zucchini noodles are tossed with garlic, sesame oil, and tamari for a quick gluten-free meal. They are light and flavorful with a satisfying crunch.

Simple Gluten-Free Sides and Add-Ons

Pair these with your main dish for a complete meal.

Garlic Green Beans: Sauté fresh green beans in olive oil with plenty of minced garlic. This simple side is flavorful and naturally gluten-free.
Spicy Cucumber Salad: This crunchy cucumber salad is tossed in tangy vinegar and spicy chili oil. It’s refreshing with just the right amount of heat.
Quinoa Stir-Fry: For a quick meal, use leftover quinoa mixed with fresh veggies and gluten-free sauce. Stir-fry everything together for a tasty, healthy dish.
Asian Cabbage Slaw: Shredded cabbage is dressed in a bright, tangy vinaigrette for a crisp salad. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish with gluten-free ingredients.
Baked Tofu Bites: Crispy tofu cubes are seasoned and baked until golden without any gluten-containing ingredients. They make a great protein-packed snack or addition to meals.
Sautéed Baby Bok Choy: Baby bok choy is cooked with garlic, sesame oil, and gluten-free tamari sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful side that complements many dishes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Ginger: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a sweet and tangy gluten-free ginger glaze are a delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

Gluten-Free Sauces to Make at Home

These bring that Panda flavor—without the wheat.

Sweet and Sour Sauce: A tangy-sweet blend of pineapple juice, honey, vinegar, and gluten-free ketchup. Great for dipping or drizzling over stir-fries and rice dishes.
Garlic Sauce: This savory sauce is made with tamari, fresh minced garlic, and thickened with gluten-free cornstarch. It adds bold flavor to meats, tofu, or veggies.
Peanut Dipping Sauce: Creamy natural peanut butter mixed with tamari and lime juice for a zesty dip. Perfect with spring rolls, grilled chicken, or veggies.
Coconut Curry Sauce: A rich, fragrant sauce made with coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and turmeric. Delicious over rice, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
Mango Chili Sauce: Smooth, pureed mango blended with chili flakes and vinegar for sweet heat. It’s great as a dip or glaze for shrimp, chicken, or veggies.

Gluten-Free Desserts That Hit the Spot

No fortune cookies? No problem. Try these instead.

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies: These are made with almond flour and bright lemon zest for a soft, citrusy bite. They are naturally gluten-free and perfect with a touch of jam in the center.
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake: This incredibly moist and rich cake swaps regular flour for a gluten-free blend. The mayonnaise gives it a tender texture without tasting like mayo.
Mochi Ice Cream: Chewy mochi wrapped around creamy ice cream is naturally gluten-free. It is easily found in various flavors in many Asian markets.
Coconut Rice Pudding: This creamy dessert is made with coconut milk and rice, lightly sweetened and spiced. Top it with mango chunks or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Banana Chia Pudding: Blend almond milk, banana, and chia seeds for a naturally sweet, healthy treat. Chill until thickened and serve cold for a satisfying texture.
Almond Butter Rice Crispy Treats: For a chewy dessert, combine almond butter and gluten-free crispy rice cereal. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup and cut into squares.
Matcha Chia Pudding: A unique twist using matcha green tea powder and chia seeds. It’s light, energizing, and naturally gluten-free when made with plant-based milk.
Apple Cinnamon Bites: Baked apple chunks topped with a cinnamon oat crumble; use certified gluten-free oats. This warm, cozy dessert is perfect for fall or any time.

Conclusion

Panda Express might not be ideal for strict gluten-free diners, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on those bold, Asian-inspired flavors. A few items like steamed rice, plain vegetables, and unseasoned grilled chicken might work in a pinch. But if you’re highly sensitive to gluten, skipping it and recreating your favorites at home is safer.

With so many gluten-free recipes, sauces, and sides, you can enjoy the comfort and taste of Panda Express-inspired meals, without the risk. Just be informed, ask questions, and when in doubt, go homemade.

Amanda Kee