Does Panda Express Still Have Beyond Orange Chicken? Answered

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Is Panda Express still offering **Beyond Orange Chicken**? This blend of classic Chinese-American cuisine and inventive plant-based ingredients grabbed my attention. I’m eager to discover if this special dish remains on their menu.

Today, we’ll find out if you can still enjoy this plant-based delight at your favorite fast-food outlet.

Does Panda Express Still Serve Beyond Orange Chicken?

Panda Express has discontinued the Beyond Orange Chicken dish.

As of the most recent updates, the availability of Beyond Orange Chicken [1] at Panda Express may fluctuate due to location, customer demand, and the company’s strategic planning. 

“Everyone loves fried chicken, Don’t ever make it. Ever. Buy it from a place that makes good fried chicken.”

– Nora Ephron, American Journalist

Initially launched as a limited-time offer, its continuous presence on the menu is not guaranteed and can vary by location and time. 

To ensure the most accurate information, it is advisable to check the current menu at your nearest Panda Express or visit their official website for updates.

Read: Orange Chicken vs General Tso vs Sesame Chicken

What Is Beyond Orange Chicken?

Beyond Orange Chicken is a plant-based version of the iconic Orange Chicken dish served at Panda Express. 

Developed in collaboration with Beyond Meat, a pioneer in producing plant-based substitutes, this menu item offers the same tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that made the original dish famous but with plant-based protein instead of chicken. 

It was designed to provide a delicious and satisfying option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone interested in reducing meat consumption.

When Did Panda Express Introduce Beyond Orange Chicken?

Panda Express introduced Beyond Orange Chicken in July 2021 as a limited-time menu item. The growing consumer demand for plant-based meal options drove the decision to introduce this innovative dish. 

Initially, Beyond Orange Chicken was only available in select locations in New York and Southern California before it expanded to other locations based on its success and customer feedback. 

Always check with your local restaurant or Panda Express’s official channels for current menu offerings. But how do you reheat orange chicken?

What Ingredients Are In Beyond Orange Chicken?

1. Beyond Chicken: This is a plant-based chicken substitute developed by Beyond Meat. It’s made from a mix of proteins (peas, mung bean, and rice) and designed to mimic the taste and texture of actual chicken.
2. Orange Sauce: This is the same sauce used in Panda Express’s original Orange Chicken. It combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of spiciness.
3. Breading: The Beyond Chicken pieces are breaded to give them a satisfying crunch, similar to the original Orange Chicken.
4. Cooking Oil: The breaded Beyond Chicken pieces are fried until golden brown and crispy.

“As the Panda Express kitchen sizzles with the fragrant aroma of orange chicken, the question remains – does the echo of Beyond still resonate? Only time and your local menu will reveal the truth.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Other Plant-Based Options At Panda Express

1. Super Greens: A healthful mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, steamed to perfection.
2. Chow Mein: A classic Chinese dish consisting of stir-fried noodles with onions, celery, and cabbage. Note that you should confirm with the specific restaurant whether their version of chow mein is vegetarian, as recipes may vary.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These are crispy, deep-fried rolls filled with cabbage, carrots, onions, and Chinese noodles [2].
4. Steamed White and Brown Rice: These versatile side options complement many dishes.
5. Eggplant Tofu: This slightly spicy dish features lightly browned tofu, eggplant, and red bell peppers in a savory sauce. Note: this dish may only be available in some locations.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

While this dish has been discontinued, the availability of Beyond Orange Chicken at Panda Express varies across locations and times. 

For the most current and accurate information, it is recommended to contact your local Panda Express or visit their official website or social media platforms. 

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/61024/asian-orange-chicken/
2. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/34668/chinese-fried-noodles/