Catering from Panda Express requires reviewing their menu prices to select the right combination platters for your group size. The Panda Express Catering Menu And Prices offer a straightforward way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Whether you are planning a office lunch, a family reunion, or a birthday party, knowing what each platter includes helps you order smart. This guide breaks down every option, portion sizes, and actual costs so you can make a confident choice.
Panda Express keeps its catering simple. You pick from a few platter sizes, choose your entrees and sides, and then place your order online or by phone. The prices are set per platter, not per person, which makes budgeting easy. Most locations also offer a small discount for large orders, but that varies by store.
Panda Express Catering Menu And Prices
The core of the Panda Express catering menu is built around three platter sizes: Small, Medium, and Large. Each platter serves a specific number of people and comes with a set number of entrees and sides. Below is the full breakdown of what you get and what it costs.
Small Platter
The Small Platter is designed for groups of 4 to 6 people. It includes one side dish and two entrees. This is the most affordable option and works well for small meetings or a family dinner.
- Price: $45.00
- Serves: 4–6 people
- Includes: 1 large side (choose from fried rice, white rice, chow mein, or steamed rice) and 2 large entrees
- Entree choices: Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, Broccoli Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, SweetFire Chicken Breast, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Mushroom Chicken, String Bean Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak, or Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Medium Platter
The Medium Platter is the most popular choice for groups of 8 to 10 people. It gives you two side dishes and three entrees. This size is ideal for birthday parties, team lunches, or small gatherings.
- Price: $80.00
- Serves: 8–10 people
- Includes: 2 large sides and 3 large entrees
- Same entree options as the Small Platter
Large Platter
The Large Platter is built for crowds of 12 to 16 people. It comes with three side dishes and four entrees. This is the best value per person if you are feeding a big group.
- Price: $120.00
- Serves: 12–16 people
- Includes: 3 large sides and 4 large entrees
- Same entree options as above
All platters come with disposable serving utensils, plates, and napkins. You can also request extra soy sauce, chili sauce, and fortune cookies at no additional cost. Just ask when you place your order.
How To Order Panda Express Catering
Ordering catering from Panda Express is simple. You can do it online through their website or call your local store directly. Here are the steps to follow.
- Go to the Panda Express website and select the “Catering” tab.
- Enter your zip code to find a participating location near you.
- Choose your platter size (Small, Medium, or Large).
- Pick your side dishes and entrees from the list.
- Select a pickup date and time. Most orders need at least 24 hours notice.
- Add any extras like extra sauces or fortune cookies.
- Complete your payment online or at the store when you pick up.
If you call, be ready with your group size and preferred dishes. The staff can help you adjust portions if needed. Some stores also offer delivery for large orders, but that depends on location and availability.
Panda Express Catering Sides And Entrees Explained
Knowing the sides and entrees helps you build a balanced menu. Panda Express offers a variety of flavors from sweet to spicy. Below is a quick guide to each option.
Side Dishes
- Fried Rice: Classic wok-fried rice with vegetables, egg, and soy sauce. A crowd favorite.
- White Rice: Steamed jasmine rice. Simple and neutral.
- Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with cabbage, celery, and onions. Slightly sweet.
- Steamed Rice: Plain steamed rice. Lighter than fried rice.
Popular Entrees
- Orange Chicken: Crispy chicken in a tangy orange sauce. The most popular item.
- Beijing Beef: Crispy beef with bell peppers and onions in a sweet-tangy sauce.
- Broccoli Beef: Tender beef with broccoli in a garlic soy sauce.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy chicken with peanuts, celery, and onions.
- SweetFire Chicken Breast: Chicken breast with red bell peppers, onions, and pineapple in a sweet chili sauce.
- Honey Walnut Shrimp: Shrimp in a honey sauce with candied walnuts. Premium item.
- Mushroom Chicken: Chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, and bamboo shoots.
- String Bean Chicken Breast: Chicken breast with string beans in a ginger soy sauce.
- Black Pepper Angus Steak: Angus steak with onions and bell peppers in a black pepper sauce.
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Chicken breast marinated in teriyaki sauce, grilled.
You can mix and match any combination. There is no limit on how many of each entree you can choose, but the platter comes with a set number of large pans. For example, a Small Platter gives you two large pans of entrees. You can choose two different entrees or double up on one.
Panda Express Catering Prices Per Person
To understand the real value, calculate the cost per person. Here is a quick breakdown based on the maximum servings.
- Small Platter ($45.00) for 6 people = $7.50 per person
- Medium Platter ($80.00) for 10 people = $8.00 per person
- Large Platter ($120.00) for 16 people = $7.50 per person
These prices are lower than buying individual entrees at the counter. A single entree at Panda Express costs around $5–$7, so catering saves you money per person. Plus, you get sides included.
Customizing Your Panda Express Catering Order
You are not stuck with the standard platter options. Panda Express allows some customization. Here is what you can change.
- Swap sides: You can replace one side with another. For example, get two fried rice and one chow mein on a Medium Platter.
- Add extra entrees: Some stores let you add an extra entree pan for an additional fee. Ask your local store.
- Request vegetarian options: Most sides are vegetarian, but entrees like String Bean Chicken Breast can be made with tofu if available.
- Adjust spice level: If you have a group that does not like spicy food, avoid Kung Pao Chicken or SweetFire Chicken. Stick to Orange Chicken and Broccoli Beef.
Always confirm customizations when you place the order. Not all stores offer the same flexibility.
Panda Express Catering For Large Events
If you are feeding more than 16 people, you can order multiple platters. For example, two Large Platters serve 24–32 people. You can also mix sizes. A Large and a Medium platter together serve 20–26 people. This is common for office parties or school events.
For very large events, Panda Express also offers a “Family Meal” option at some locations. This is a bundle of individual entrees and sides, but it is not always listed on the catering menu. Call ahead to ask.
Panda Express Catering Prices Compared To Other Chains
How does Panda Express compare to other fast-casual catering options? Here is a quick comparison.
- Chipotle: About $12–$15 per person for a burrito bar.
- Panera Bread: About $10–$13 per person for sandwich boxes.
- Panda Express: About $7.50–$8.00 per person for platters.
- Subway: About $8–$10 per person for sandwich platters.
Panda Express is one of the most affordable options for group catering. The price includes sides and entrees, so you do not need to order extra items.
Tips For Getting The Best Value From Panda Express Catering
Here are some practical tips to stretch your budget and satisfy your group.
- Choose filling sides: Fried rice and chow mein are more filling than white rice. They also add flavor.
- Pick two popular entrees and one unique one: For example, Orange Chicken and Broccoli Beef are safe bets. Add Honey Walnut Shrimp for variety.
- Order extra sides: If your group is large, ask if you can add an extra side pan for a small fee. This helps stretch the entrees.
- Use fortune cookies as dessert: They are free and add a fun touch.
- Check for coupons: Panda Express sometimes offers catering discounts online or through their app. Look before you order.
Panda Express Catering Menu For Special Diets
If someone in your group has dietary restrictions, here is what to know.
- Vegetarian: Sides like white rice, steamed rice, and chow mein are vegetarian. Entrees like String Bean Chicken Breast and Mushroom Chicken contain chicken, so avoid those. Broccoli Beef has beef. No vegetarian entree is standard, but you can ask for a vegetable stir-fry.
- Gluten-free: Panda Express does not have a gluten-free menu. Most sauces contain soy sauce with wheat. The only safe options are steamed rice and maybe the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (check with the store).
- Low calorie: Choose white rice or steamed rice and entrees like Broccoli Beef or String Bean Chicken Breast. Avoid fried rice and Orange Chicken.
- Nut allergies: Kung Pao Chicken contains peanuts. Honey Walnut Shrimp contains walnuts. Avoid those if allergies are a concern.
Always inform the store about allergies when ordering. They can provide ingredient lists upon request.
Panda Express Catering Delivery And Pickup
Most Panda Express locations offer free pickup for catering orders. Delivery is available at some stores but usually requires a minimum order amount. Here is what to expect.
- Pickup: You choose a time slot. The food is ready in bags or boxes. Check that everything is correct before leaving.
- Delivery: Some stores deliver through third-party services like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Fees apply. Call your local store to confirm.
- Timing: Order at least 24 hours in advance. For weekends or holidays, order 48 hours ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panda Express Catering
Can I order Panda Express catering for same-day pickup?
Most stores require 24 hours notice. Some may accommodate same-day orders if they have enough stock, but it is not guaranteed. Call ahead to check.
What is the cheapest Panda Express catering option?
The Small Platter at $45.00 is the cheapest. It serves 4–6 people, making it the lowest cost per platter.
Does Panda Express catering include drinks?
No, drinks are not included in any platter. You can buy bottled drinks separately at the store or bring your own.
Can I order Panda Express catering for a party of 50?
Yes, order multiple platters. For 50 people, you would need about 4 Large Platters or a combination of Medium and Large. Call the store to coordinate large orders.
Are there any hidden fees with Panda Express catering?
No hidden fees. The price listed is the total for the platter. Taxes may apply depending on your location. Delivery fees are extra if you choose delivery.
Final Thoughts On Panda Express Catering Menu And Prices
Panda Express catering is a solid choice for group meals. The menu is simple, the prices are clear, and the food is familiar to most people. You can feed a group of 10 for around $80, which is hard to beat. Just remember to order ahead, pick a mix of popular and unique entrees, and double-check your side choices. With this guide, you are ready to place your order with confidence.