Panda Express has rolled out a regional test of a Taiwanese inspired popcorn chicken that it bills as the chain’s first walk and eat snacking item. The recipe uses extra crispy dark meat chicken tossed in a proprietary dry spice blend that highlights tamarind, tomato, garlic and onion. Each order is finished with fried kale and served with house made Chili Crisp Aioli on the side.
The item is available as a standard entrée choice on any Plate, Bowl or Family Meal without an added charge at participating locations. Large à la carte pails are offered for walk and eat service. Participating markets include Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Nashville, Orlando, Phoenix and Reno and surrounding test locations.
Panda says the seasoning aims to echo the multidimensional profile of Taiwanese yán sū jī while keeping an American Chinese point of view. The chain positions fried kale as its variation on the traditional basil garnish. Panda describes the product as a portable, shareable format designed to bring bold flavors to guests on the go.
The rollout is limited to test markets while supplies last. The large collectible pail tied to the launch is distributed only with the purchase of a large à la carte pail. The offer is restricted to one redemption per order and cannot be combined with Family Meals, other offers, or discounts.
Design Collaboration And Brand Context
Panda Express partnered with Taiwanese American designer and food creator Frankie Gaw of Little Fat Boy to design a limited edition collectible bucket for the test. Gaw said the design pulls from his Taiwanese roots, movie theater nostalgia and Panda’s playful identity. The bucket is available while supplies last as a gift with purchase of a qualifying large à la carte order.
Evelyn Wah, Panda Express vice president of brand innovation, described popcorn chicken as a familiar American favorite and said pairing it with Taiwanese flavors felt like a natural way to tell the brand’s American Chinese story. Panda framed the item as an innovation to gather guest feedback in targeted regions before any broader roll out.
The test is part of Panda Express’s ongoing menu development work. The company is family owned and was founded by Andrew and Peggy Cherng. Panda operates more than 2,500 locations across the US and has a presence in multiple international markets. The company also cites philanthropic work through Panda Cares and a multiyear community fund as part of its broader mission.
Guests outside test markets are encouraged to follow Panda Express social channels for updates on future availability. Panda retains the right to modify or discontinue the offer and notes additional restrictions may apply in participating locations.
